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04/11/2024
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Driving in Europe Checklist

Your Essential Guide to Driving in Europe

Driving in Europe offers you the freedom to craft your perfect itinerary. From scenic coastal drives to bustling city-hopping adventures, the possibilities are endless. However, navigating new roads, driving on a different side of the road, and interpreting unfamiliar signs can be daunting. That’s why preparation is key.

With our comprehensive driving abroad checklist, you can plan your trip confidently and enjoy a seamless journey.

 

Before You Travel: Pre-Trip Essentials

Preparation is the foundation of a stress-free trip. Here’s what you should arrange before you set off:

  • Vehicle Readiness: Ensure your car’s tax and MOT are valid and up to date.
  • Toll Tag Setup: Save time at toll booths by fitting a toll tag before your journey. You can purchase your toll tag here.

 

Essential Documents

Keep these documents easily accessible when travelling on the roads:

  • A full, valid driving licence
  • Proof of vehicle insurance
  • Your V5C vehicle registration certificate
  • Proof of ID (e.g., passport)
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Policy details for European Breakdown Cover

 

 

Mandatory Equipment for Driving in Europe

Each country has specific legal requirements. Ensure you have the following to comply with regulations:

  • Reflective jackets: One for each passenger, stored in the car’s cabin.
  • Headlamp beam deflectors: Use stickers or adjust your headlights.
  • Warning triangle: Mandatory in most countries.
  • First aid kit: Required in Austria, France, and Germany.
  • UK car sticker: Necessary if your number plate doesn’t display the Euro symbol.
  • Snow chains or winter tyres: Depending on the season and destination.

 

Recommended Safety Gear

While not legally required, these items are highly recommended for peace of mind:

  • Fire extinguisher
  • Spare light bulbs
  • Torch and spare batteries
  • Engine oil and water reserves
  • Blanket and refreshments
  • Photocopies of key documents
  • A satnav or detailed map
  • European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or equivalent

 

Winter Driving Extras

  • France: Many ski resorts have specific requirements for winter equipment. If you're heading to popular areas like Chamonix or the French Alps, carry snow chains even if using winter tyres. See our article on Winter Driving Advice for more details.
  • Spain: In northern regions like Asturias, Cantabria, and Navarre, snow and ice can be more frequent, making winter tyres or chains a wise choice.
  • Portugal: While snowfall is rare, areas like Serra da Estrela can require snow chains during winter storms.

 

Legal Driving Requirements for France, Spain, and Portugal

Driving in France, Spain, and Portugal requires adherence to specific legal requirements to ensure compliance with local laws. Below is an overview for each country to keep your trip stress-free and legal.

 

Driving Requirements in France

  1. Driver's License:
    • UK licenses are accepted, but always carry a valid passport as proof of ID.
    • An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not required for short stays.
  2. Mandatory Equipment:
    • Reflective jackets: One for each passenger, stored inside the cabin.
    • Warning triangle: Required in case of breakdowns.
    • Headlamp beam deflectors: To avoid dazzling other drivers.
    • Breathalyzer: Legally required, though fines for non-compliance are rarely enforced.
    • Crit'Air vignette: A clean-air sticker required for driving in certain low-emission zones such as Paris, Lyon, and Grenoble.
  3. Speed Limits:
    • Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph).
    • Rural roads: 80–90 km/h (50–56 mph), depending on signage.
    • Motorways: 130 km/h (81 mph) in dry conditions; 110 km/h (68 mph) in wet conditions.
  4. Other Rules:
    • Always give priority to vehicles entering from the right unless otherwise marked ("Priorité à droite").
    • Use dipped headlights in tunnels, even during daylight.

 

Driving Requirements in Spain

  1. Driver's License:
    • UK licenses are valid, and an IDP is generally not required.
    • Always carry your passport for identification purposes.
  2. Mandatory Equipment:
    • Two warning triangles: Required in case of a breakdown or accident.
    • Spare glasses: If you require glasses to drive, carry a spare pair.
    • Reflective jackets: Must be worn if you exit the car on highways.
    • Headlamp beam deflectors: Necessary for UK vehicles.
  3. Speed Limits:
    • Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph).
    • Rural roads: 90–100 km/h (56–62 mph), depending on signage.
    • Motorways: 120 km/h (75 mph).
  4. Other Rules:
    • Overtaking is only allowed on the left-hand side.
    • Avoid using headphones while driving; it is prohibited.
    • Children under 1.35m must use an appropriate child seat.

 

Driving Requirements in Portugal

  1. Driver's License:
    • UK licenses are accepted for visitors.
    • Carry your passport for identification.
  2. Mandatory Equipment:
    • Reflective jackets: For any roadside emergency.
    • Warning triangle: Essential in case of breakdowns.
    • Spare light bulbs: Required by law for vehicle headlights.
  3. Speed Limits:
    • Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph).
    • Rural roads: 90 km/h (56 mph).
    • Motorways: 120 km/h (75 mph).
  4. Other Rules:
    • Tolls are common on Portuguese highways (autoestradas). Many are electronic-only, so ensure your vehicle is equipped with an Emovis Tag or pay at designated points.
    • It’s illegal to carry bicycles on the rear of a car unless they are properly secured and don’t obscure lights or license plates.
    • Use dipped headlights in poor visibility during the day.

 

General Tips for All Countries

  • Alcohol Limits:
    • France: 0.05% BAC (0.02% for new drivers).
    • Spain: 0.05% BAC (0.03% for professional drivers).
    • Portugal: 0.05% BAC (lower for new drivers or certain professionals).
  • Road Signs: Familiarise yourself with local signage, particularly for parking and priority rules.
  • Emergency Numbers: Dial 112 for emergency services in all three countries.
  • Driving Insurance: Ensure your policy covers European travel.
  • Breakdown Cover: Upgrade your breakdown cover to include Europe.

 

Ready to Hit the Road?

Driving in Europe doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation, it can be one of the most memorable ways to explore the continent. Before you set off, make sure you have everything you need. Purchase your Crit’Air vignette and purchase your toll tag today for a smoother journey.

Start your journey with confidence and enjoy the freedom of discovering Europe by car!