Many AA car insurance customers take their own vehicles to the continent, especially for holidays. And throughout the Brexit negotiations they'll have kept an eye on what they need to do when driving in Europe.
During the negotiations you might have heard the phrase 'Green Card'. Depending on when the UK leaves the EU, you may need a Green Card to drive your car in Europe.
But what is a Green Card and how do AA customers get hold of one? Here's our handy guide to help you.
What is a Green Card?
A Green Card is an official, multi-language translation of your car insurance policy. While not printed on card, it must be printed on green paper. It proves you have the minimum compulsory insurance cover to drive in the country you’re visiting.
The Green Card system covers 47 countries, including the 28 in the European Union (with the UK), Switzerland, Russia, and others bordering the Mediterranean.
If you're stopped at a border or by the police while driving your car in one of the countries covered by the Green Card system, you can show them your Green Card to confirm that you have valid car insurance.
Do I need a Green Card?
Because of our current membership of the EU, drivers with valid UK car insurance don't need a Green Card to travel in European Economic Area countries, Andorra, Serbia and Switzerland. But this could change after Brexit.
- Until the UK leaves the EU your AA car insurance policy covers you in Europe and there's no need for a Green Card.
- If you drive abroad after the UK departs from the EU, a Green Card will be required. Our customer advisors will be happy to help you get your Green Card.
We don't want you to be caught out, so be prepared and make sure you have the necessary documents well before you travel. After all, it's better to have your Green Card and not need it, rather than need it and not have it.
You may need other documents before you travel too.
How do I get one and how much does it cost?
If you're an AA car insurance customer you can get a Green Card by calling us on:
0370 0600 137
Lines are open Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm, Saturday 9am to 5pm.
Please contact us 14 days before travelling to get your Green Card in time.
If you're visiting any of the following countries for up to 90 days, then your Green Card is free:
Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Serbia, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland.
Your Green Card is also free if you travel to the Republic of Ireland, and is valid for the whole policy year.
If you're travelling to a European country not listed above, or certain Middle Eastern nations, or your stay is longer than 90 days, then you'll need to pay a fee. We'll tell you about the charge when you apply.