Taking your car abroad can be daunting, but with a little research and some careful planning you'll be on the road in no time.
Going abroad with your car? We can help you prepare. This guide explains what paperwork you'll need and how to get your car ready. It also covers licensing, import and export rules.
- International driving permits
- Personal paperwork
- Exporting your car
- Preparing your car
- Practical tips for driving outside the EU
International driving permits
Most countries outside the EU will accept a full, valid UK driving licence. But you'll also need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
There are two types of IDP:
- The IDP 1949 and 1968 – valid in most of countries.
- The IDP 1926 – valid in Mexico, Iraq and Somalia.
Check the government website for a full list of which IDPs are needed for each country. They’re available from the Post Office, the RAC or the AA for £5.50. You'll need to fill out a form, show proof that you live in Great Britain or Northern Ireland, and prove you’ve passed your driving test. You must be over 18.
Remember, an IDP only works with your full photocard driving licence. Also, don’t confuse an IDP with an International Driving Licence (IDL). They’re not the same.
Personal paperwork
Make sure your passport and full driving licence are up to date.
You must have valid car insurance that covers you in all the countries you visit. Check with your insurer before you travel. If you’re with AXA, see what countries you're covered in.
You also need to carry your original V5C vehicle registration document in your car at all times.
Exporting your car
Many customs offices outside Europe require European drivers to pay a deposit for import duties and taxes. These costs vary depending on local tax law.
If you want to sort this out before you go, you may want to get a Carnet de Passage en Douanes, also known as Carnet de Passage or Carnet. It’s like a passport for your car.
A Carnet is needed for travel in Africa (except Tunisia and Morocco), Australia, New Zealand, Asia, the Middle East. It’s also recommended for most South American countries.
It lets you enter and exit five different countries, or go through five trips, without paying taxes or duties.
The RAC is the only UK issuer. They charge £215 to £225, plus a refundable security deposit based on your car’s value, your insurance, and the risk level of the countries you visit.
Preparing your car
Many countries have laws about what you must carry in your car. Common items are:
- a warning triangle
- first aid kit
- reflective/high vis vest
- a clearly displayed UK sticker
- spare headlight bulbs.
You may also want to take:
- A fire extinguisher
- Basic tool kit
- A tyre inflator and sealant kit
- Spare antifreeze, oil and water.
It's a good idea to keep note of emergency numbers, including your insurer’s international number and the local emergency number.
Before you set off, give your car a once-over to make sure it's in good condition to travel. Make sure the tyres have enough tread (at least 1.6mm) and are at the right pressure. Get under the hood and check your oil and coolant levels, as well as refilling the wiper fluid. If there are any strange engine noises or other concerns, don't put them off – see a trusted mechanic before you go.
Practical tips for driving outside the EU
It's wise to research local laws, hazards and customs before you start your trip. A great place for research is the British Government’s website with travel advice for 225 countries or territories. From there, we also recommend looking into these things:
- Do they drive on the left or the right?
- Speed limits – many countries use km/h, not mph
- Drink-driving limits – it's best not to drink at all when driving. Some countries have strict limits meaning not drinking the night before is essential too.
- Legal driving ages
- Some countries have specific laws about women driving
- Toll roads and bridges – keep some change hidden, like the glove box
- Road signs – knowing what they look like helps to make sure you're following local road safety laws.
