Many AA car insurance customers take their own vehicles to the continent, especially for holidays.
If you drive abroad in Europe from 1 January 2021 you'll need a Green Card in addition to your Certificate of Motor Insurance and the log book (V5C) for the vehicle.
But what is a Green Card and how do AA customers get hold of one? Here's our guide to help you, along with FAQs about driving abroad.
What is a Green Card?
The Green Card (or International Motor Insurance Card) is an internationally recognised document that shows that you have the minimum insurance cover needed by law in the country you're visiting.
The Green Card system covers 48 countries, including the 27 in the European Union.
Why do I need a Green Card?
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.
We don't want you to be caught out, so be prepared and make sure you have all the necessary documents well before you travel.
How do I get one and how much does it cost?
A Green Card is free for AA car insurance customers who want to visit any of the following countries:
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, Vatican City.
Just remember to request it at least 14 days before you travel.
If your departure is within the next 14 days, call us on 0370 060 0137.
You'll get the minimum legal cover in any of these countries for the whole policy year, plus for 90 days you'll have the same cover as you already have in the UK.
Your Green Card is also free if you travel to the Republic of Ireland, and it'll be valid for the whole policy year. The Republic of Ireland is within the territorial limits of your policy, so you'll have the same cover as you have in the UK.
If you're travelling to a European country not listed above, or certain Middle Eastern nations, or you want the same cover as you have in the UK for longer than 90 days, give us a call and we’ll check if this is acceptable with your insurer. If it is, you may have to pay a fee and you'll still need a Green Card.