If you want to drive your car on the continent you must have the right insurance in place.
Every UK car insurance policy will provide minimum third party cover to drive in other European Union (EU) countries, but this will only cover other drivers' costs, so you should consider extending your cover to get the best protection.
Extended European cover
Many car insurance policies let you extend your European cover so you will get the same protection as you have in the UK.
So, if you have a fully comprehensive policy, you will get comprehensive cover when you drive in Europe too. However, you will have to pay extra for this if it is not offered as standard.
Get the right length of cover
The table above shows the period of European cover each insurance company can offer. Most will set:
A maximum period for the term of the policy: For example a total of 180 days for the year
A maximum length of each individual trip: For example between three and 90 days, depending on the insurer
For example, if you are planning to be away in a foreign country for three months during the year, make sure you get cover for at least 90 days. Make sure each trip made during those 90 days does not exceed the single trip limit.
Some insurance companies offer unlimited annual European cover, which means you will get the same cover at home and abroad for trips of any length during the policy.
You should also make sure the policy you choose covers everything you need, not just driving in Europe. Here is everything car insurance can cover you against.
European car insurance FAQs
Am I covered to drive in Europe?
Yes, all car insurance policies give you third party cover to drive in Europe. You can usually extend your cover; find out how to add European cover here.
What European countries are covered?
All European Union (EU) countries and other destinations like Andorra and Switzerland. The policy documents will outline which countries are included.
Will I have breakdown cover in Europe?
No, only if you have added European breakdown cover to your policy, or taken out a standalone European breakdown policy.
Do I need a Green Card to drive in Europe?
No, most countries do not require you to have a Green Card. However, you will need a Green Card in Belarus, Russia, Turkey and Morocco.
What does car insurance cover?
It can cover damage to your and another driver's car after an accident. It can also cover theft, vandalism, fire and more.
About our car insurance comparison
Who do we include in this comparison?
We include European car insurance policies available from our panel of insurers and brokers. They are all regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Here is more information about how our website works.
How do we make money from our comparison?
We have commercial agreements with some of the companies in this comparison and get paid commission if we help you take out one of their products or services. Find out more here.
You do not pay any extra and the deal you get is not affected.