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Last updated: 19 March 2026
Older “driving abroad” guides used to focus on operator handbooks and printed rulebooks. These days, the most useful approach for most UK van drivers is a simple, source-backed checklist you can run through before you go.
1) The documents to carry in your van
If you’re taking your own van abroad, UK government guidance says you should take your V5C log book and your motor insurance certificate with you. If the vehicle is hired or leased, you may need a VE103 certificate to show you’re allowed to use it abroad. For the EU/EEA, the government also advises carrying your vehicle registration document (or the relevant hire/lease permission document) when travelling for less than 12 months. [1] [2]
2) Check whether you need an International Driving Permit (IDP)
Most UK drivers with a photocard UK licence do not need an IDP for the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein. You may need one in some cases (for example, if you only have a paper licence). GOV.UK explains which type applies by country and how to get one in Great Britain (via PayPoint outlets). [3] [4]
3) UK number plates and the “UK” sticker rule
The rules depend on what’s on your number plate and where you’re going. The UK government states that you must display a UK sticker in Spain, Cyprus and Malta, regardless of what’s on your number plate. You do not need a UK sticker or identifier to drive in Ireland. [5]
4) Trailer registration if you’re towing abroad
If you’re towing a trailer, GOV.UK says you must register all trailers over 750kg to drive through or to most countries in Europe (with some exceptions listed on the guidance). If towing is part of your work, build this into your planning early, especially if you cross multiple borders. [6]
5) Insurance: what to check before you set off
At minimum, you need valid motor insurance to drive abroad. GOV.UK highlights taking your insurance certificate with you. A key post-Brexit point is whether you need a Green Card (international motor insurance card). You do not need a Green Card when driving in the EU (including Ireland) and several other listed countries, but you may need one for some countries outside that list (for example, Turkey or Ukraine). The Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) also advises contacting your insurer to confirm whether a Green Card is necessary for your trip. [7] [8]
Practical insurance questions to ask your insurer before travelling:
- Does my policy include driving abroad, and which countries are covered?
- What level of cover applies abroad (e.g., third party only vs wider cover), and for how many days?
- Is business use (deliveries, tools, multi-stop work) covered if I’m working abroad?
- Do I need additional documents (such as a Green Card) for any countries on my route?
6) Low-emission zones and stickers: don’t get caught out
Some European cities operate low-emission rules that may require pre-purchased stickers. For France, the official Crit’Air site is the place to order the Crit’Air vignette. Germany also has “environmental zones” in some cities, and foreign vehicles must comply, meaning you may need the appropriate emissions sticker before entering an environmental zone. [9] [10]
7) If there’s an accident abroad: make claims easier
If you’re in a collision in Europe, a European Accident Statement (EAS) is a standard form used across Europe to help record agreed facts at the scene (only sign if you understand what’s written, and keep a copy). For claim routes, UK-based victims of accidents abroad generally have to make claims directly to the foreign insurer (or the relevant local equivalent body for uninsured/hit-and-run scenarios). [11] [12]
SOURCES
- GOV.UK — Driving abroad (overview): View source
- GOV.UK — Driving in the EU (vehicle registration documents): View source
- GOV.UK — Driving in the EU (licences/IDP summary): View source
- GOV.UK — International driving permit: View source
- GOV.UK — Flags, identifiers and stickers (UK sticker rules): View source
- GOV.UK — Register your trailer to take it abroad: View source
- GOV.UK — Vehicle insurance: driving abroad (Green Card guidance): View source
- Motor Insurers’ Bureau — Green Card information for the public: View source
- French Government — Official Crit’Air site: View source
- German Embassy London — Environmental zones in Germany: View source
- Citizens Advice — You’re involved in a road accident abroad (EAS): View source
- Motor Insurers’ Bureau — Making a claim abroad: View source
VanCompare Editorial Team
The VanCompare Editorial Team produces clear, practical guidance on UK van insurance and related topics. We work with FCA authorised insurance providers and use insurer information where relevant to explain cover in plain English and help drivers make informed decisions.
Where relevant, our content is checked against publicly available UK guidance and information from sources such as the FCA and GOV.UK to help keep it accurate and up to date.
This content is for general information only and is not financial advice.
