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Using a UK Driving Licence in Europe After Brexit - What You Need to Know
The process of driving in Europe changed for UK motorists following Brexit. While your UK photocard driving licence remains valid in EU countries, for now, there are new international driving permit and licence exchange requirements that British drivers need to be aware of.
This guide covers everything you need to know about using your UK licence when driving in Europe post-Brexit:
Do I Need an International Driving Permit to Drive in the EU?
One of the biggest changes is that some European countries now require UK drivers to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP).
An IDP is an additional document that provides a translation of your UK licence into over 10 languages like French, German, Italian etc. Having an IDP overcomes potential language barriers if stopped by police abroad.
Here is the status of IDP rules in key EU driving destinations:
- France – No IDP required for UK licences
- Spain – Required for stays over 6 months
- Germany – Required for UK drivers
- Italy – Not mandatory but recommended
- Netherlands – Required for UK licence holders
- Portugal – Required for non-EU licences
Always check government travel advice pages for the latest IDP rules before your trip. Requirements can change quickly.
Applying for an International Driving Permit
IDPs are issued in the UK by the Post Office. Here’s how to apply:
- Download and complete the IDP application form
- Submit the form at your local Post Office branch along with:
- 2 passport-sized photos
- Your full valid UK photocard driving licence
- £5.50 fee
- Receive your IDP within 5-7 working days
Take your IDP on all European driving trips, along with your UK licence. Having both documents avoids issues with local authorities.
Will My UK Licence Still Be Valid in the EU?
Yes – but only temporarily until a certain cut-off date depending on the country.
For example, your UK licence remains valid for driving in France until 31 December 2022.
But in Spain, it is only accepted until 30 June 2022. Other EU countries have validity end dates for UK licences ranging from end of 2022 to end of 2023.
You can check the gov.uk website for a full list of the dates your UK licence will stop being recognised by each EU country.
What happens after the UK licence cut-off dates?
Once your UK photocard licence is no longer valid, you will likely need to exchange it for a local EU driving licence to continue driving in that country.
The licence exchange process varies by country – you may simply have to apply to swap your UK licence, or in some cases retake your driving test.
Check the specific rules for any EU country you plan to drive in after the UK licence recognition expiry date. Act well in advance to exchange your licence seamlessly.
Have EU Licence Exchange Rules Changed in the UK?
Yes – EU, EEA or Swiss licence holders living in the UK can no longer automatically exchange their home country licences for a UK one.
Instead, there are now specific cut-off dates for when these licences must be exchanged before they are no longer accepted for driving in Britain.
For example, licences issued in France, Spain, Italy or other EU states are valid in the UK until 31 December 2022.
After this date, residents will have to take a UK theory and practical driving test to get a new UK licence.
Check gov.uk for the exact exchange deadline for your country’s licence and start the application process well before the cut-off date.
Tips for Driving in Europe After Brexit
Aside from carrying your driving licence, IDP and GB sticker, follow these tips when driving abroad:
- Research local road rules and signs before driving
- Have your headlights adjusted before the trip
- Check license validity periods and renewal processes
- Verify you have correct insurance coverage for Europe
- Understand changes to European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
- Check passport entry/expiry rules for EU countries
- Know what paperwork is needed to take pets abroad
- Be prepared for potential customs checks at borders
Driving in Europe has changed for UK license holders after Brexit. Stay up to date on the latest rules for every country you plan to drive in so your documents remain valid and avoid issues. Safe travels!
