Whether you’re taking your own car with you, or hiring a car abroad, it’s a good idea to start planning for your trip several weeks in advance.
There’s some important information you need to be aware of, and you may need to speak with your insurance provider or apply for a driving permit before you set off.
So don’t get caught out, and make sure you’re clued up and ready to go with this handy guide.
DVLA code for hiring a car abroad
In 2015, the DVLA abolished the paper part of the UK driving licence. This has changed the process for UK drivers hiring a car abroad.
You are now required to obtain a special passcode from the DVLA website before you collect your hire car.
The code is valid for 21 days and you’ll need the following three things in order to get your code:
- Your driving licence number
- Your National Insurance number
- The postcode on your driving licence
The code allows your car hire provider to access all of the details that would have been found on your paper counterpart via an online system.
Driving in Europe
Your Great Britain (GB) or Nothern Ireland (NI) driving licence can be used in all EU or European Economic Area (EEA) countries, and Switzerland.
There may be additional rules that apply to other European countries; both the AA and the RAC have some valuable information on this.
Driving outside of Europe
There may be additional rules that apply to countries outside Europe. In some countries, such as Mexico, Hong Kong and the USA, you’ll be required to bring an International Driving Permit (IDP).
An IDP may be a legal requirement in the country you’re visiting, or it may be a compulsory requirement with the car hire company you’re using – remember to check before you get there.
You can get an IDP for just £5.50 from selected Post Office branches. In order to apply, you’ll need to be:
- Over 18 years old
- A valid UK driving licence holder
You can apply for your IDP up to three months before you’re due to travel, and the IDP is valid for one year. You’ll need to submit a passport-sized photo and fill out an application form in order to obtain your IDP, so don’t leave it until the last minute.
Insurance
When taking your own car
Before you go, speak with your insurance company to check the extent of your cover when driving abroad. It’s a good idea to extend your cover to include theft and damage to your car, if you’re not already covered for those.
If your cover seems limited, it might be a good idea to consider getting separate breakdown cover.
When hiring a car abroad
Your car insurance is likely to be included in your car hire deal. Check that your agreement includes adequate cover (fire, theft, damage and Personal Liability), and also that you aren’t getting ripped off!
Some car hire companies can be guilty of offering insurance cover with high excesses. This means you could potentially end up getting charged a large amount for even a small scratch. It’s a good idea to check the car thoroughly before setting off, take a record of any scratches or marks and ask a representative from the car hire company to sign it.
For more in-depth information about insurance when hiring a car abroad, check out this handy guide from the Money Advice Service.
What to take with you
- GB sticker – You must display your country’s identification letters (e.g. GB) when driving abroad. Failure to do so may result in an on-the-spot fine. If your number plates include the GB Euro symbol, then you do not need a sticker within the EU.
- Tools and equipment – Some countries require you to have some compulsory equipment in your vehicle. For example, in France, you are required to carry a portable breathalyser. The AA has some handy information about this; make sure you check the specific requirements of the country you’re heading to before your visit. Regardless of whether or not certain kit is compulsory, it’s still advisable to make sure you’re stocked up on some items in case of breakdown. These include a first-aid kit, torch, blanket, warning triangle, reflective jacket, jack, and puncture repair kit.
- Essential paperwork – As mentioned, you’ll need to acquire a passcode from the DVLA if you want to hire a car abroad. Remember to bring the details of this with you, along with your passport and driving licence. If you’re taking your own car, some additional documents may come in handy if you get into any bother abroad, such as your vehicle registration document (V5), motor insurance certificate, International Driving Permit (if required), breakdown policy and travel insurance documents.
The law
Remember that if you break the law when driving abroad (such as being caught speeding by a camera), the authorities can obtain your details from the DVLA and send you a fine.
A recent study has found that thousands of Britons are breaking the law when driving abroad. The most common misdemeanours were:
- Speeding (18%)
- Driving on the wrong side of the road (15%)
- Failure to carry a breathalyser kit in the car (14%)
You may find that some countries have different motoring laws to those you’re used to at home. Don’t get caught out and read up on the specific laws in the country you’re visiting before you get there.