European car insurance

Heading off on a European road trip? If you’re planning to drive your own car abroad, make sure you’ve got the right insurance in place. Find out what level of European car insurance you need—and whether you’ll need a Green Card for your journey.

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What is European car insurance?

European car insurance covers you to drive your own car in Europe.

All UK car insurance policies include third-party cover for driving in EU countries. But if you have comprehensive cover in the UK, don’t assume that same level applies when driving abroad.

Some insurers match your UK cover while you’re in Europe—others don’t. That’s why it’s important to check your policy details before setting off.

Basic European cover may also come with limits on how many days you’re insured to drive abroad.

If you need a higher level of protection or plan to drive in Europe for an extended period, speak to your provider. Many offer comprehensive European car insurance as an add-on for extra peace of mind.

What does European car insurance cover?

What does European car insurance cover? If you choose comprehensive European car insurance, it could include:
Cover for third-party damages
Protection against fire and theft
Injuries and damage to you, your passengers, and your car
Even if you have comprehensive cover in the UK, your policy might only extend to third-party cover while driving in Europe. For extra peace of mind, it’s worth checking your options and upgrading if needed.

Things to check before you travel

How long are you covered for?

European cover typically lasts between 30 and 90 days, depending on your provider. If you’re planning a longer trip, you may need to arrange additional cover.

Does it cover every country you're visiting?

Not all policies include every European country—especially those outside the EU. Always check your policy to make sure all destinations are included.

What about breakdown cover?

Car insurance might cover you to drive in Europe, but that doesn’t guarantee you’re covered for breakdowns or roadside recovery abroad. Consider adding European breakdown cover for extra reassurance.

Do I need extra car insurance to drive in Europe?

That depends on the level of European cover included in your current policy—and the type of trip you’re planning.
If you’re not sure what’s covered, it’s best to check with your insurance provider. They can explain any limits or exclusions and let you know if you need to upgrade your cover.
In many cases, you can add extra protection—like comprehensive European cover—for an additional cost, giving you peace of mind while driving abroad.

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What car insurance do I need to drive in Europe?

To drive legally in Europe, you’ll need at least third-party car insurance. This covers you if you injure someone or damage their vehicle.
However, it won’t protect your own car or cover personal injuries—so if you want more peace of mind, it’s worth considering comprehensive cover while driving abroad.

What is a Green Card for driving in Europe?

A Green Card is an internationally recognised document that proves you have the minimum car insurance cover needed to drive in certain countries.
If you’re driving in the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein, you don’t need a Green Card with UK car insurance.
However, you may need one if you’re travelling to countries like Turkey, Albania, Ukraine, Israel, Morocco or Tunisia.
A Green Card can also help if you’re involved in an accident abroad—ensuring you’re properly covered and can receive compensation if the other driver is at fault.
Need more details? Check out our full guide to the Green Card for car insurance.

What documents do I need to drive in Europe?

Before you head off on a European road trip, make sure you’ve got all the right documents to stay safe and legal on the road.

A full, valid UK driving licence

Car insurance certificate with European cover

Vehicle log book (V5C) – the original, not a copy

Your passport(s)

DVLA check code – only required if you’re hiring a car abroad

How can I get car insurance for driving in Europe?

Start by checking your current policy to see if you’re already covered for driving in Europe—and whether you need to let your provider know about your trip.

If you want the same level of cover you have in the UK (like comprehensive cover), or need longer European cover than your policy includes as standard, speak to your insurance provider. They can help extend your cover and explain any extra costs involved.

It’s also a good idea to share the details of your trip—like your destination and travel dates—so your insurer can make sure you have the right protection.

If your car insurance is due for renewal and you’re planning multiple trips abroad, it could be worth comparing policies to find one that includes comprehensive European cover as standard.

Only travelling for a short period? You could consider temporary European car insurance. Just double-check which countries are included, as this type of cover typically lasts for up to a month.

Know the local driving laws before you go

Planning to drive in Europe? It’s important to be aware that road rules can vary from country to country.

In most European nations — including France — you’ll be driving on the right-hand side of the road. That alone can take some getting used to.

You may also be legally required to carry certain items in your vehicle, such as:

A high-visibility jacket
A warning triangle
Headlamp beam converters, so your headlights don’t dazzle oncoming drivers

Each country has its own rules and regulations, so it’s best to check the local driving laws for each destination on your route before you travel. It’ll help keep you safe — and avoid any unexpected fines.

Frequently Asked Questions about Driving in Europe

How old do I need to be to drive in Europe?

The minimum driving age varies across European countries, but in most places it’s 18 years old. Even if you hold a full UK licence, make sure you meet the minimum age requirement for each country you’ll be visiting.

What should I do if I’m involved in an accident in Europe?

Stay calm and ensure everyone is safe. Call the local emergency services and exchange details with the other driver(s). Take photos of the scene and any damage. Contact your UK car insurance provider as soon as possible for guidance on how to proceed with a claim abroad.

Does Brexit affect driving in Europe?

Since Brexit, you don’t need a Green Card to drive in EU countries with a UK car insurance policy. However, you may still need extra documentation or insurance depending on the country. Always check the latest guidance for the countries you plan to visit.

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