Brexit and driving in France

With less than two months to go before Britain is due to leave the European Union - and nobody any clearer about what that might entail - motorists planning to drive to France would be wise to plan for the possibility of a no-deal. From 28 March 2019, and in the event of a no-deal, the government is warning that British drivers may need an international driving permit (IDP) to drive in the EU and EEA.

The UK government is advising that if you are travelling to the EU after the 29th March 2019 you need to use the passport checker below to make sure your passports meet the minimum validity requirement to be able to travel. Please check the expiry dates on your passports in case you might need to renew any of them. There's a handy passport checker below at passport.service.gov.uk/check-a-passport

How to apply for an International Driving Permit

If you’re driving to the EU you’ll be required to hold an International Driving Permit. You can apply for this permit from larger Post Offices from 01 February. The permit costs £5.50. You will need to request a driving permit at least a month before your holiday. You will also be required to hold a green card which is proof that you have UK car insurance. A green card can be obtained from your insurance company.

Our free Driving in France e-book is packed with information and advice on what to bring with you, the basic rules of the road, laws on speeding and fines, toll road information, advice for motorcyclists and much more.

Don’t forget that for short-term driving trips in France and beyond, European breakdown cover from the ETA offers fantastic value. With English-speaking helplines and assistance available 24/7, you can rest assured that help is at hand should you break down abroad.

To download your free e-book, just press here.

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