European Car Insurance

There are two approaches to European car insurance. The most common one is for UK car insurance customers who are looking for European car insurance cover for a visit to mainland Europe. The second arises from people looking to make their European car insurance more comprehensive and/or stay in mainland Europe for an extended period of time.

UK car insurance policies should provide the minimum cover needed by law to drive in mainland Europe (normally third party cover). However, you should call your car insurance company before you set off to make them aware of your trip to Europe and need for European car insurance.

Your car insurer will want to know where, and for how long, you will be travelling in Europe. They can also tell you what level of European car insurance cover you are eligible for (for free) as well as any additional European car insurance cover you could buy.

European car insurance green card

A European green card is not a legal requirement in the majority of European countries these days. Most European authorities are happy to accept your Certificate of Motor Insurance. However, a green card can make life easier as it is an internationally recognised document which confirms you have at least the minimum level of European car insurance required by the country you are visiting. You can ask your car insurer to issue you a green card and most will not charge you for this.

European car breakdown insurance is another consideration. Before you make a trip to mainland Europe, it is a good idea to have your car serviced. This reduces the likelihood of you breaking down where the costs of recovery and servicing your vehicle can be very high. Bare in mind that European car parts will differ to UK parts as we drive on the left hand side of the road. This may delay your repair and hike up the cost if you don't have European car insurance.

Longer term European car insurance

Most UK car insurance companies will set a maximum limit to their cover of about 30 days. Your European car insurance cover may also be restricted to pleasure use. You should check these details with your car insurer as they may be able to extend your European car insurance protection for a small fee. If you require longer term cover whilst driving abroad, check if an international car insurance policy or a local car insurance policy is more suitable for your needs. These policies will allow wider uses and long periods of cover.