This article covers all the ways in which Brexit is expected to affect UK drivers operating in European Union member countries.
After the March 29th, 2019 deadline, drivers looking to operate on European roads will need to consider a variety of changes relating to numerous factors including driving permits, motor vehicle insurance and driving licenses, Cat C1 Licence, among others.
Changes Relating To International Driving Permits
UK drivers operating in other EU nations will be required to obtain an IDP (International Driving Permit) if the March 29th, 2019 deadline passes, and the UK exits the European Union without penning a deal, according to the DfT (Department or Transport).
Simply put, you will need to have your regular driving license translated into an International Driving Permit. This makes the work of inspecting your credentials much easier for officials in foreign nations. You can apply for one at the Post Office after paying a fee of £5.50 pounds.
You still need to carry your regular driving license at all times as well because the IDP is not considered valid on its own.
Do You Need An International Driving Permit?
International Driving Permits are divided into two different types. The 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic created the first one while the 1968 sitting created the second type.
If you intend to drive on roads in Spain, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta you need to apply for the 1949 permit, while the 1968 variant is meant for those driving in other European Union nations. The EU country you intend to visit is used to determine the version of IDP you need according to the DfT. Furthermore, failure to have the correct IDP version may cause you to be denied entry into a specific country or attract any other action deemed fit by law enforcement, such as payment of a fine.
Motor Vehicle Insurance Green Card
UK drivers may also be required to obtain a motor vehicle insurance green card before they can drive on European roads. Designed to demonstrate that you have the necessary amount of insurance cover to drive on foreign roads, your insurer issues this document.
To get your hands on a green card, just ring up your insurer, and ask for one – it is usually supplied free.
Accidents on the Road
To ensure that your insurer takes up the job of following up on any claims you make to foreign insurers and covering foreign motorists on your behalf, it is recommended that you contact your insurer and confirm your insurance is valid in Europe before you take your vehicle on the road after Brexit.
Motor Vehicle Registration Documents
No changes are expected to take place with regard to the rules surrounding carrying your motor vehicle registration documents when using European roads, even in the event of a no deal Brexit.
When using foreign roads, carry your vehicle’s V5C logbook in your vehicle just as you have always done in the past. To demonstrate that you are permitted to drive a hired vehicle registered in the UK on foreign roads, carry a VE103 in the car at all times as well.
GB Stickers and Registration Plates
Unless you are driving a vehicle that is equipped with a Euro-plate, with the GB symbol and EU flag on the left hand side, all vehicles registered in the UK but driven in EEA and EU nations should have a GB sticker displayed on the rear end.
All vehicles registered in the UK, regardless of whether they have a Euro plate or not, will need to be fitted with a GB sticker when used on EU roads.
Registration of Trailers
To be towed on EEA and EU roads, all non-commercial and commercial trailers weighing more than 3,500 and 750kgs respectively will need to be registered by the corresponding UK drivers after Brexit. The UK Gov site shows the full licence you need before you can apply for provisional entitlement in the higher categories.
Even though you are not legally compelled to do so, drivers can register non-commercial trailers weighing over 750kgs out of their own free will.