Driving Abroad with a UK Licence

Since Brexit, the rules have changed. Most popular EU destinations still accept a UK photocard driving licence for short visits (up to 90 days), but some countries now require an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Countries where you do not need an IDP for short visits include France, Spain, Italy, Germany, Portugal, Greece, and the Netherlands.

Countries where you may need an IDP include some Eastern European nations. The requirements can change, so always check the GOV.UK driving abroad page for the latest country-specific guidance before you travel.

Your UK driving licence is widely recognised around the world. Here is a general guide:

For longer stays (typically over 3 to 12 months depending on the country), you will usually need to exchange your UK licence for a local one or pass a local driving test.

This depends on where your licence was issued. The UK has agreements with designated countries that allow direct licence exchange without taking a UK driving test.

Designated countries include: all EU/EEA member states, Australia, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Falkland Islands, Faroe Islands, Gibraltar, Hong Kong, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, and Zimbabwe.

If your licence is from a non-designated country, you cannot exchange it. You will need to apply for a UK provisional licence and pass both the theory and practical driving tests.

To exchange a designated country licence, apply through GOV.UK. The fee is £43.

You can get an IDP over the counter at participating Post Office branches. The cost is £5.50 and you will need:

1. Your valid UK photocard driving licence.

2. A passport-style photograph.

There are two types of IDP, and which one you need depends on your destination:

Some countries accept both types. Check the GOV.UK IDP page to find out which type you need for your destination.

Visitors to the UK can drive using their foreign driving licence for up to 12 months from the date they last entered the country.

After 12 months, you must either:

Exchange your licence for a UK one (if from a designated country).

Pass a UK driving test if your licence is from a non-designated country.

If you become a UK resident, the 12-month period starts from the date you take up residence, not from each visit.

No, not any more. Since 2 August 2023, UK drivers no longer need to carry a motor insurance green card when driving in EU and EEA countries.

Your UK motor insurance automatically provides the minimum level of third-party cover required by law in EU/EEA countries. However, this is usually just basic third-party cover, which may be less than your UK policy provides.

Before travelling, contact your insurer to check what level of cover you have abroad and whether you need to purchase additional cover for comprehensive protection.

In most popular tourist destinations, yes. Rental companies in countries like France, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Greece, the USA, and Australia will accept a UK photocard driving licence.

Some rental companies and countries may also require an IDP, particularly in Japan, Brazil, Thailand, and some Eastern European nations. Always check with your rental company before booking.

You should also check the minimum age requirements for car hire, which vary by country and rental company. Many require drivers to be at least 21 or 25 years old, and young driver surcharges are common.