UK drivers no longer need a green card to drive on their European travels within the European Union putting an end to the system which had protected British drivers on their European travels.
The European Commission announced it planned to ditch the scheme in July 2021, meaning drivers no longer need to arrange the extra cover with their insurance company before they travel.
Brexit caused Green Card confusion
Brexit brought confusion as to whether the Green Card would be reintroduced for British citizens as proof that they held sufficient insurance for the countries they were travelling in.
There were concerns that Brits driving within the EU without one could have faced on the spot fines, prosecution or have their cars impounded.
However, the Commission decided to drop the card in an effort to reduce tension around the Northern Ireland protocol.
Drivers from Northern Ireland had needed to carry a Green Card when visiting other EU destinations, including the neighbouring Republic of Ireland.
The card is a document proving a motorist has third party insurance. Drivers had to carry the Green Card and present it at borders and in random checks in certain countries. They could have faced legal action if they didn’t have one.
If they didn’t have one before travelling they would have to buy expensive third party insurance in the country they were driving in.
Do I need a Green Card to travel to some countries?
Although UK drivers can now travel to the EU, Ireland, Norway, Serbia, Andorra, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland without the need of cover. There are still some European countries where you may need cover such as: Turkey, Ukraine, Moldova, Albania, and Belarus.
If you need Green Card insurance to keep you protected on your summer travels it couldn’t be easier to arrange than with Sterling insurance. Call 0344 381 9990 to talk to one of our insurance experts.
