Driving abroad is one of the great pleasures of car ownership, but breaking down in a foreign country without proper cover can be expensive and stressful. Since Brexit, UK drivers need to be more prepared than ever. Here is what you need to know.
Post-Brexit Requirements
Since the UK left the EU, several things have changed for UK drivers in Europe:
- Green Card: No longer required since August 2021 — your UK motor insurance is automatically valid in EU countries
- UK sticker: You must display a UK identifier (either a UK number plate with the Union flag, or a separate UK sticker)
- International Driving Permit: Not required for most EU countries, but check requirements for your specific destination
- Breakdown cover: UK breakdown policies do not automatically cover you in Europe — you need to check or add European cover
What European Breakdown Cover Includes
European breakdown cover typically provides:
- Roadside assistance in covered countries
- Towing to a local garage
- Emergency repairs (labour typically covered, parts at your cost)
- Vehicle repatriation to the UK if the car cannot be repaired within a set number of days (typically 5–7 days)
- Alternative transport home for you and your passengers
- Replacement vehicle hire (typically up to 14 days)
- Emergency accommodation (typically up to £100–£150 per night)
European Breakdown Cover Providers Compared
| Provider | Price (annual add-on) | Days Covered | Countries |
|---|---|---|---|
| AA European | £65–£120 | Up to 90 days | EU + Switzerland, Norway, Iceland |
| RAC European | £55–£100 | Up to 90 days | EU + associated countries |
| Green Flag Euro | £45–£80 | Up to 90 days | EU + associated countries |
| Startrescue Euro | £35–£60 | Varies | EU + associated countries |
Country-Specific Legal Requirements
Different European countries have different legal requirements for drivers. Before your trip, check whether you need:
| Requirement | France | Spain | Italy | Germany |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Warning triangle | Required | Required (x2) | Required | Required |
| Hi-vis vest | Required | Required | Required | Required |
| Spare bulb kit | Recommended | Recommended | Recommended | Not required |
| First aid kit | Not required | Not required | Not required | Required |
| Headlight beam deflectors | Required (UK cars) | Required (UK cars) | Required (UK cars) | Required (UK cars) |
| Toll vignette/sticker | Crit'Air (some cities) | Not required | Not required | Not required |
Pro Tip: Buy a European driving kit before your trip. These typically include a warning triangle, hi-vis vests, headlight beam deflectors, and a GB/UK sticker, all for around £15–£25 from Halfords or similar. It is much cheaper than buying items individually at a European service station.
What to Do If You Break Down in Europe
- Move off the road if possible. Use the hard shoulder, lay-by, or any safe area
- Put on your hi-vis vest before exiting the vehicle (this is a legal requirement in most European countries)
- Place your warning triangle at least 50 metres behind your vehicle on normal roads, 150 metres on motorways
- Call your breakdown provider. Use the European emergency number they provide. Keep this number easily accessible (saved in your phone and written down)
- Stay safe. Wait behind the crash barrier on motorways, or away from the road on other roads
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Final Thoughts
European breakdown cover is essential for any UK driver travelling to the continent. The cost of a single breakdown abroad without cover — including towing, temporary repairs, and vehicle repatriation — can easily reach £1,000+. An annual European add-on for £45–£120 is a sensible investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Since August 2021, UK motor insurance is automatically valid in EU countries. You no longer need to carry a Green Card. However, you should carry your insurance certificate and check that your policy includes European cover.
Not automatically. Most UK breakdown policies only cover the UK. You need to add European cover as an extra, or buy a separate European breakdown policy. Check your policy before travelling.
At minimum: warning triangle, hi-vis vest, UK sticker (if not on your number plate), headlight beam deflectors, your driving licence, your insurance certificate, and your V5C logbook. Some countries require additional items like a first aid kit or spare bulbs.
Annual European breakdown cover add-ons typically cost £35–£120 depending on the provider and level of cover. Single-trip cover is also available from some providers for shorter trips.
Most European breakdown policies include vehicle repatriation if the car cannot be repaired within a set number of days (typically 5–7). The provider will arrange transport of your vehicle back to the UK at their cost.
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