My Ferry Travel

Ferries are a great solution for those who want to take the car on holiday, but many people who take their car abroad don’t realise that the requirements for driving abroad differ from

what they are used to in the UK. So here’s a quick rundown of some of the common requirements when driving abroad.

Every UK vehicle taken abroad must have a GB sticker (stuck on to the vehicle!), and you should always make sure you carry both parts of your driving license (card and paper counterpart) with you. Below we have compiled a list of additional requirements for some of the more popular tourist destinations….

France - You don’t need an International Driving Permit (IDP), but you will need your vehicle registration document, motor insurance certificate, GB sticker, a warning triangle and headlamp adjustments. Since 1st July 2008 it has also been compulsory in France to carry a reflective jacket; failure to carry this, or any of the other required items, could lead to an on the spot fine of up to 135 euros.

Germany - No IDP necessary, but you must carry your vehicle registration document, insurance certificate, GB sticker and headlamp adjustments. It is also recommended that you carry a warning triangle and first aid kit.

Spain - No IDP required, but you must have the vehicle registration document, insurance certificate, GB sticker, warning triangle (one is compulsory, and it is recommended you carry two), high visibility jackets (compulsory for the driver and we recommend you carry one for every potential occupant of the vehicle) and headlamp adjustments.

Netherlands - No IDP required, but you must carry the vehicle registration document, insurance certificate, GB sticker and headlamp adjustments. It is also recommended that you carry a warning triangle in the vehicle.

It is also advisable to familiarise yourself with driving regulations before you travel, such as speed limits and motoring laws particular to that country. And if you are hiring a car, it’s always best to check before you get there that the vehicle will come with all the necessary equipment.

For more information, including requirements for driving in many other countries, please see the AA website. Please don’t just rely on the information provided here; this is for guidance purposes only - always check with the AA or a similar organisation for up-to-date motoring information at home and abroad.

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