In November we warned there was a real chance that Green Card insurance would return when we left the EU – and we were right. If you drive your vehicle in Europe now you must ensure that you carry this extra documentation.
For the majority of drivers in the UK that has not been a reality up to now as Covid 19 regulations have prevented travel out of the UK. However, when the country comes out of lockdown and we are able to take our vehicles over the Channel or into Ireland – and even north into Iceland – you will need to carry a green card with you.
Green cards are also required in some other countries around the world and it is advisable to check with your insurance broker or insurer before travelling.
Minimum third party insurance cover
All UK vehicle insurance provides the minimum third party cover to drive in
the EU (including Ireland), Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Serbia and Switzerland. Check with your insurer if your policy has extra cover for things like theft or damage to your car abroad. You also need to carry a physical copy of a green card to drive your vehicle in these countries.
If you’re driving in the rest of the world you may need to carry a green card to prove you have the minimum insurance cover required by the country you’re driving in.
You may also need additional insurance for your vehicle, trailer or caravan. Check the Government’s travel advice for the country you’re going to.
Getting a green card from your insurer
A green card is proof that you have vehicle insurance when driving abroad. Contact your insurer or broker to get one for your vehicle. They’ll either:
- post a green card to you – allow up to 6 weeks for this
- tell you how to download a green card to print yourself
You will need to carry extra green cards if:
- you’re towing a trailer or caravan (one for the towing vehicle and one for the trailer or caravan)
- you have 2 insurance policies covering your trip (one card for each policy)
- you have multi-car or fleet insurance (one for each vehicle on the policy)
Showing your green card when driving abroad
You must show your green card if you’re involved in an accident and you may have to show your green card:
- at the border when moving between countries
- if you’re stopped by the police
If in doubt, talk to your insurer or insurance broker AT LEAST six weeks before you plan to travel. They will be able to advise you of the regulations for the country you are travelling to and provide the correct documentation.
You can read more details about Green Cards in our previous blog here
