A GUIDE TO THE
RULES OF THE ROAD ACROSS EUROPE
ALBANIA
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Headlamp beam deflectors.
First aid kit.
Drive on the right.
Headlamp converters.
Overtake on the left.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
International Driving Permit.
Proof of Insurance.
Only major roads (or sections of roads) have lighting and driving by night should be avoided. Street lighting in urban areas is subject to power cuts.
Proof of ID (Passport).
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
SERBIA
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
A GB sticker on the back of your car - even if your car has 'Euro-plates'.
Tow bar.
Drive on the right.
First aid kit.
Use daytime running lights or dipped headlights during the day.
Headlamp converters.
3m rope.
Warning triangle.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid UK driving licence.
Proof of insurance/green card.
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
A person visibly under the influence of alcohol is not permitted to travel in a vehicle as a front seat passenger.
Police carry out random alcohol breath tests. Drivers who refuse a test will be automatically imprisoned.
Tolls are payable on most sections of motorway,these vary fromf €20-200, depending on the size of your vehicle - these are usually payable in cash.
Not all insurers cover driving in Serbia so check before you go - if yours doesn't, you can buy temporary cover at the main border crossings.
Never go off-road in rural areas without an experienced guide - you run the risk of coming across landmines and unexploded devices.
ROMANIA
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Headlamp beam deflectors.
Reflective jacket.
Warning triangle.
Drive on the right.
Passing lights must be used outside built-up areas, day and night.
Fire extinguisher.
First aid kit.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
Proof of insurance.
Proof of ID (Passport).
The use of the horn is prohibited in towns between 22:00 and 06:00. At night, warning must be given by the use of lights.
It is recommended to pay cash as a precaution against the risk of fraud when using credit cards.
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
The Romanian police can suspend and take away your driving licence. You can get your licence back before you leave the country by showing proof of departure such as a plane ticket.
RUSSIA
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Headlamp beam deflectors.
Spare bulbs.
Warning triangle.
Drive on the right.
In large towns, it is prohibited to turn left other than at crossings with lights.
Fire extinguisher.
First aid kit.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
Proof of insurance/green card.
Proof of ID (Passport).
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
It is forbidden to pick up hitchhikers.
In Moscow, credit cards are accepted in petrol stations; otherwise, payment for fuel must be made in cash.
If you receive an on-the-spot fine, you must pay it through a bank. Paying with cash is illegal.
Russian VISA/Transit.
International Driving Permit.
ANDORRA
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
A GB sticker on the back of your car.
Warning triangle.
Headlamp converters.
Drive on the right.
There are no motorways, and the speed limits vary up to 90km/h.
Spare bulbs for your car's external lights.
Spiked tyres and snow chains during winter.
Documents
Key things to know
A valid UK driving licence
if you don't have a photo card licence, you'll need an International Driving Permit.
It would be handy to take a shovel incase you need to dig the car out of the snow.
Motor insurance certificate.
SAN MARINO
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
A GB sticker on the back of your car - even if your car has 'Euro-plates'.
Warning triangle.
Headlamp converters.
Drive on the right.
You must use dipped headlights during the day on motorways, dual carriageways and out-of-town roads.
Documents
Key things to know
A valid UK driving licence. If you don't have a photo card licence, you'll need an International Driving Permit.
You won't have to pay motorway tolls.
If you're carrying an overhanging load (like a bike on the back of your car) you must have a 50cmx50cm red and white striped reflective panel on the back of the car.
Fines for serious offences at night (10pm to 7am), including speeding and going through red lights, are increased by a third.
ARMENIA
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
A GB sticker on the back of your car.
Warning triangle.
Drive on the right.
Headlamp converters.
First aid kit.
Fire extinguisher.
Documents
Key things to know
A valid UK driving licence.
An International Driving Permit.
Motor insurance certificate.
Roads can be of a poor standard, particularly in rural areas.
Some locals can be reckless behind the wheel so take care.
Not all insurers cover driving in Armenia so check before you go.
AUSTRIA
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Warning triangle.
Headlamp beam deflectors.
First aid kit.
Drive on the right, overtake on the left.
Give way to vehicles approaching from the right at intersections.
Fire extinguisher.
Reflective jackets.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
Proof of Insurance.
Proof of ID (Passport).
Dashboard cameras are prohibited.
The authorities can require cars to be fitted with snow chains on the driving wheels when road conditions are bad.
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
The Austrian police are empowered to impose and collect fines of up to €90 on the spot from drivers who violate traffic regulations.
All motor vehicles must pay a toll "Mautvigentte" to use motorways and express roads.
AZERBAIJAN
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
A GB sticker on the back of your car.
Warning triangle.
Headlamp converters.
Drive on the right.
Don't turn left, cutting across traffic. If you need to turn left, drive further on until you can find a safe place to turn round, then drive back the other way to turn off.
First aid kit.
Fire extinguisher.
Documents
Key things to know
A valid UK driving licence.
Your passport and visa keep them with you at all times as local police often do spot checks.
An International Driving Permit.
Your motor insurance certificate and V5 registration document or hire car paperwork.
Take care when driving through Azerbaijan, particularly at night. Roads can be of a poor standard, particularly in rural areas and are not well lit.
Some locals can be reckless behind the wheel.
Not all insurers cover driving in Azerbaijan so check before you go.
Watch out for pedestrians many step out into the road and cross wherever is convenient.
Right hand drive cars are not permitted in Azerbaijan.
Outside Baku, petrol stations are few and far between so it's a good idea to carry a can of petrol with you.
BELARUS
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Warning triangle.
Headlamp beam deflectors.
Drive on the right, overtake on the left.
First aid kit.
Fire extinguisher.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
Proof of insurance/green card.
An International Driving Permit.
Proof of ID (passport).
It is illegal to drive a dirty car.
Winter tyres are compulsory during the winter period, even for vehicles registered outside Belarus.
Radar detectors are prohibited in Belarus and must be disconnected on arrival at the border.
Your motor insurance certificate and V5 registration document or hire car paperwork.
BELGIUM
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Warning triangle.
Reflective jacket.
Headlamp beam deflectors.
First aid kit.
Fire extinguisher.
Drive on the right.
When the size of the carriageway makes passing difficult, the driver may use the side of the footway provided that pedestrians are not put in any danger.
Priority must be given to all vehicles coming from the right. Trams must be given priority regardless of which direction they are approaching from.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
Proof of insurance.
Belgian motorways are currently toll-free except for vehicles of 12t +.
Proof of ID (passport).
Your motor insurance certificate and V5 registration document or hire car paperwork.
BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Warning triangle.
Reflective jacket.
Headlamp beam deflectors.
Drive on the right.
On mountain roads, you have right of way going uphill.
First aid kit.
Spare bulbs for your car's external lights.
Winter tyres if you're travelling between 15 November - 15 April.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
Your motor insurance certificate and V5 registration document or hire car paperwork.
Proof of ID (passport).
Never go off-road in rural areas without an experienced guide - you run the risk of coming across landmines and unexploded devices.
Anyone under the influence of alcohol can't sit in the front seat, even as a passenger.
A Green Card.
It's a good idea to avoid driving at night, if you can, as many roads have no lighting.
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
You must use dipped headlights at all times.
Not all insurers cover driving in Bosnia-Herzegovina so check before you go - if yours doesn't, you can buy temporary cover at all border posts except Neum.
BULGARIA
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Warning triangle.
Reflective jacket.
Headlamp beam deflectors.
First aid kit.
Drive on the right.
It is compulsory to have your headlights on in the daytime.
Trams have right of way over other road users whether they come from the right or the left.
Fire extinguisher.
Documents
Key things to know
If the national driving licence does not bear the photo of the holder, the visitor must have an International Driving Permit.
Full, valid driving licence.
Your motor insurance certificate and V5 registration document or hire car paperwork.
Snow chains are permitted and can become compulsory according to road conditions, in which case this is indicated by the international road sign.
Motorists should not use the red pumps at petrol stations as these are for service vehicles only.
Proof of ID (passport).
A Green Card.
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
CROATIA
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Warning triangle.
Reflective jacket.
Headlamp beam deflectors.
First aid kit.
Drive on the right.
Vehicles must have their passing lights (dipped headlights) on at night and in case of bad visibility. These lights must also be switched on during the day in winter, from the last Sunday in October to the last Sunday in March.
Spare bulbs for your car's external lights.
Compulsory winter equipment consists of a set of snow chains on the driving axle and a shovel.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
Proof of insurance.
There are tolls levied on 7 stretches of motorway, Tolls are also levied on some other roads.
Proof of ID (passport).
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
If you receive an on-the-spot fine, you have the option to pay it immediately or within 8 days. However if you choose the latter option, the police can confiscate your passport as a precaution.
CYPRUS
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Headlamp beam deflectors.
Warning triangle.
Drive on the left; overtake on the right.
At junctions where there are no signs, drivers must give way to vehicles coming from the right.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
Proof of insurance.
Radar detectors are prohibited.
Proof of ID (passport).
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
CZECH REPUBLIC
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Warning triangle.
Drive on the left; overtake on the right.
High-visibility vest.
Headlamp beam deflectors.
At uncontrolled intersections which are not marked by a priority road sign, priority must be given to vehicles coming from the right.
First aid kit.
Documents
Key things to know
A valid UK driving licence - if you don't have a photo card licence, you'll need an International Driving Permit.
Proof of Insurance (third party or above).
An unattended vehicle not illuminated by a street light should carry a parking light which is visible from the front and from the rear. The light must be within 40cm of the offside of the vehicle.
Proof of ID (passport).
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
It is necessary to purchase a sticker for motor vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes in order to use most motorways and express roads. Motorists must display the sticker on the right side of the windscreen of their vehicle.
International Driving Permit (see driving licence section).
DENMARK
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
A GB sticker on the back of your car - unless your car has 'Euro-plates'.
Headlamp converters.
Warning triangle.
Drive on the right.
It is illegal to drive without headlights, even in daylight. You must use dipped headlights at all times.
You must indicate when changing lanes.
A line of triangles means you must give way.
Buses always have priority.
Documents
Key things to know
A valid UK driving licence.
Motor insurance certificate.
You don't have to pay motorway tolls in Denmark - although you do have to pay a toll for the Oresund and Storebaelt bridges.
ESTONIA
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Warning triangle.
High-visibility vest.
Headlamp beam deflectors.
Drive on the right.
All vehicles must have their lights on day and night.
Fire extinguisher.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
Proof of insurance.
Proof of ID (Passport).
In towns motorists must take care not to park on tram lines.
Theft of cars and visible valuable articles left in cars is common. It is therefore advisable to use guarded car parks whenever possible.
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
FINLAND
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Warning triangle.
Reflective jackets.
Headlamp beam deflectors.
Drive on the right, overtake on the left.
All motor vehicles must use their headlights in and outside built-up areas at all times, throughout the year.
Vehicles must stop and give way to pedestrians boarding or alighting from a tram at a stop without a shelter.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
Proof of insurance.
Parking lights must be switched on at night if the area is not sufficiently illuminated.
Proof of ID (Passport).
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
FRANCE
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Warning triangle.
Reflective jackets.
Headlamp beam deflectors.
Drive on the right, overtake on the left.
On steep gradients, vehicles travelling downhill must give way to vehicles travelling uphill.
Breathalysers/alcohol test.
A GB sticker (or euro plates featuring the GB initials).
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
Proof of insurance.
All drivers and riders have been prohibited from wearing headsets and headphones whilst driving, be it for music purposes or for phone calls.
Proof of ID (Passport).
In all built-up areas, use of the horn is prohibited except in cases of immediate danger.
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
French motorways are operated by a variety of private companies, with most featuring tolls.Tolls can be paid in cash or with a Mastercard or Visa card.
GEORGIA
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Warning triangle.
Headlamp converters.
Drive on the right, overtake on the left.
A GB sticker.
Fire extinguisher.
First aid kit.
Documents
Key things to know
An International Driving Permit.
A valid UK driving licence.
Your motor insurance certificate.
Avoid driving at night where possible as roads can be in a poor state and some local drivers can be rather erratic.
Heavy rain and flooding can cause problems for drivers driving through Georgia, so be prepared.
GERMANY
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Warning triangle.
Headlamp beam deflectors.
Drive on the right, overtake on the left.
Reflective jackets.
First aid kit.
Overtaking is prohibited when approaching an unguarded level crossing and if the vehicle has stopped for safety reasons.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence - International Driving Permits are recognised but not compulsory.
Proof of insurance.
Proof of ID (Passport).
It is illegal to drive without winter tyres at certain times of the year.
The meaning of the ""no overtaking sign"" is that it is prohibited to overtake a vehicle with more than two wheels, e.g. a car driver may overtake a motorcycle, but a motorcyclist may not overtake a car.
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
Radar detectors are prohibited.
GREECE
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Warning triangle.
Headlamp beam deflectors.
Drive on the right, overtake on the left.
Fire extinguisher.
First aid kit.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
Proof of insurance.
If a visitor is exempted from wearing the belt on medical grounds, he must carry the medical certificate of exemption accompanied by a translation into Greek.
Proof of ID (Passport).
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
HUNGARY
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Warning triangle.
Headlamp beam deflectors.
Drive on the right, overtake on the left.
Reflective jacket.
First aid kit.
In daylight, outside built-up areas, passing lights must be used at all times, even when travelling on motorways.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
Proof of insurance.
The use of snow chains or their presence in a car can be made compulsory on some roads when weather conditions require.
Proof of ID (Passport).
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
International Driving Permit.
ICELAND
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Warning triangle.
Winer tyres.
Drive on the right.
You must use dipped headlights during the day and could be fined for not doing so.
Documents
Key things to know
All valid UK driving licenses should be accepted in Iceland however, older licenses may be more difficult to understand so it may be worthwhile getting an
an International Driving Permit (IDP) or consider updating your licence to a Photocard before travel.
Off road driving is illegal unless its clearly marked.
IRELAND
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
A GB sticker on the back of your car – unless your car has 'Euro-plates'.
Drive on the left.
Documents
Key things to know
A valid UK driving licence.
Your motor insurance certificate.
You have to pay tolls for some motorways – most don't take credit cards so make sure you've got some change.
It's illegal to carry or use any radar detection equipment, when driving through Ireland.
ITALY
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Warning triangle.
Headlamp beam deflectors.
Drive on the right.
Reflective jackets.
You must use dipped headlights during the day outside built-up areas and during snow and rain/poor visibility.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
Proof of insurance.
Proof of ID (Passport).
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
Radar detectors are prohibited.
Fines for serious offences at night (10pm to 7am), including speeding and going through red lights, are increased by a third.
International Driving Permit.
LATVIA
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Warning triangle.
Headlamp beam deflectors.
Drive on the right.
Reflective jackets.
All vehicles must have their lights on day and night.
First aid kit.
Fire extinguisher.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
Proof of insurance.
From 1st December to 1st March, winter tyres are compulsory for vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes and their trailers.
Proof of ID (Passport).
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
LIECHTENSTEIN
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
A GB sticker on the back of your car.
Warning triangle.
Headlamp converters.
Drive on the right.
You must use dipped headlights when driving through tunnels - and it's recommended you use them the rest of the time too.
Documents
Key things to know
Motor insurance certificate.
Radar detectors are prohibited.
Valid UK driving licence.
Hitch-hiking isn't allowed on motorways and other major roads.
During the day, you must sound your horn before going round a sharp bend with limited visibility. At night, flash your headlights instead.
LITHUANIA
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Warning triangle.
Headlamp beam deflectors.
Drive on the right.
Reflective jacket.
All vehicles must have their lights on day and night.
First aid kit.
Fire extinguisher.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
Proof of insurance.
Proof of ID (Passport).
Winter tyres are compulsory on cars from 10 November to 1 April.
Theft of cars and visible valuable articles left in cars is common. It is therefore advisable to use guarded car parks whenever possible.
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
In towns motorists must take care not to park on tram lines.
LUXEMBOURG
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
A GB sticker on the back of your car – unless your car has 'Euro-plates'.
Warning triangle.
Headlamp converters.
Drive on the right.
On steep roads, traffic driving uphill has priority.
Reflective jacket.
Documents
Key things to know
Valid UK driving licence.
Proof of insurance.
You don't have to pay motorway tolls in Luxembourg.
Proof of ID (Passport).
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
MACEDONIA
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
A GB sticker on the back of your car.
Warning triangle.
Headlamp converters.
Reflective jacket.
First aid kit.
Drive on the right.
Drive with your headlights on in the daytime.
Outside built-up areas, use your horn to let the car in front know you intend to overtake.Outside built-up areas, use your horn to let the car in front know you intend to overtake.
Winter tyres or snow chains, if you're travelling between 15 November - 15 March.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
Proof of insurance.
You might have to pay motorway tolls, depending where you travel within Macedonia - usually payable in cash so take plenty of change.
Proof of ID (Passport).
It's illegal to carry any radar detection equipment, whether it's switched on or not.
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
If you're taking your own car to Macedonia and the body is damaged, it's wise to get a police report confirming the damage when you enter the country - otherwise, police will query this with you when you leave.
MALTA
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
A GB sticker on the back of your car - even if your car has 'Euro-plates'.
Warning triangle.
Drive on the left.
Documents
Key things to know
Valid UK driving licence.
You won't have to pay any tolls.
There are no motorways in Malta.
If you're bringing your own car to Malta, you'll need a permit to enter the capital, Valetta - or you can use the 'Park & Ride' service.
MOLDOVA
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
First-aid kid.
Warning triangle.
Drive on the right.
Reflective jacket.
From 1 November until 31 March, drivers are obliged to travel with headlights on at all times.
Fire extinguisher.
Documents
Key things to know
Car registration.
Valid insurance (Green Card).
UK driving licence.
Avoid driving outside urban areas, particularly at night. Driving standards are poor and roads are of variable quality. There are a high number of traffic accidents, including fatalities.
Proof of ID (Passport).
If you are not the owner, written permission from the owner to drive the vehicle. This should be translated into Romanian and legalised.
MONACO
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
A GB sticker on the back of your car - unless your car has 'Euro-plates'.
Headlamp converters.
Drive on the right.
Documents
Key things to know
Motor insurance certificate and V5 registration document or hire car paperwork.
You won't have to pay any tolls, when driving through Monaco.
Valid UK driving licence.
MONTENEGRO
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Between 15th November and 31st March, vehicles must be fitted with winter tyres on the driving wheels.
Warning triangle.
First aid kit.
Drive on the right.
You must drive with dipped headlights on during the day.
Reflective jacket.
Spare bulb set.
Documents
Key things to know
Valid driving licence.
International driving permit.
Green card.
The standard of roads is fair to poor with conditions worsening in rural areas, especially in the winter and after bad weather.
The only toll in Montenegro is the Sozina tunnel between Lake Skadar and the sea.
Locally valid insurance policy.
NETHERLANDS
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Headlamp converters.
A GB sticker on the back of your car - unless your car has 'Euro-plates'.
Drive on the right.
Cycles and mopeds have right of way over cars. Watch out for cycle lanes - mopeds aren't supposed to use them but often do.
Don't cross a solid white line, even if you're turning off a road.
Documents
Key things to know
Valid driving licence.
Proof of insurance.
You don't have to pay motorway tolls when driving through the Netherlands.
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
NORWAY
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Headlamp beam deflectors.
Reflective jacket.
Warning triangle.
Drive on the right.
Use dipped headlights in the daytime, in towns as well as outside built-up areas.
Narrow roads have passing places to allow vehicles to pass. The driver on the side of the road where there is a passing place must stop for any oncoming vehicle.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
Proof of insurance.
Fuel is available everywhere, even in small villages and credit cards are accepted.
Proof of ID (Passport).
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
POLAND
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Headlamp beam deflectors.
Reflective jacket.
Warning triangle.
Drive on the right.
It is compulsory for all motor vehicles to use dipped headlights or daytime running lights, day and night, all year round.
Fire extinguisher.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
Proof of insurance.
You could be fined for not having your lights on even during the day.
Proof of ID (Passport).
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
PORTUGAL
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Warning triangle
A yellow '90' disc displayed in the car if you've held your licence for less than a year.
Spare bulb set.
Drive on the right.
If you're driving on motorways, don't use the green lanes - they're reserved for drivers who use the automatic payment system.
Reflective jacket.
Headlamp converters.
Temporary Electronic Toll Device (DEM) or Pre-Paid Toll.
A GB sticker on the back of your car - unless your car has 'Euro-plates'.
Documents
Key things to know
A valid UK driving licence. If you don't have a photo card licence, you'll need an International Driving Permit.
Your motor insurance certificate, V5 registration document or hire car paperwork, and your MOT certificate if your car is over three years old.
It’s forbidden use a dashboard camera.
If you usually wear glasses or contact lenses, you must carry a spare pair with you in the car.
You will have to pay tolls for some motorways, when driving through Portugal.
You mustn't carry a can of petrol in the car at any time.
SLOVAKIA
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Headlamp converters.
Warning triangle.
Drive on the right.
A GB sticker on the back of your car - even if your car has 'Euro-plates'.
You must use dipped headlights at all times.
First aid kit.
Documents
Key things to know
Motor insurance certificate.
Valid UK driving licence.
If you're taking your own car and it has damaged bodywork, get this officially certified when you enter Slovakia, otherwise you'll have difficulty getting the go-ahead to take your car out of the country.
You will have to pay tolls for some motorways - you'll be given a sticker to put in your car as proof of payment.
The Slovak Police warn drivers to be wary of people approaching your vehicle at border crossings and petrol stations near the border, who may cause damage to tyres and then offer their ‘assistance’ further down the road when the tyre goes flat.
SLOVENIA
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Headlamp beam deflectors
During winter weather conditions, cars must be equipped with: winter tyres (M+S) on all 4 wheels or summer tyres on all 4 wheels + snow chains in the boot.
Reflective jacket.
A GB sticker on the back of your car - even if your car has 'Euro-plates'.
Drive on the right.
All vehicles must have their lights on day and night.
It is prohibited to overtake a bus transporting children when passengers are getting on or off the bus.
First aid kit.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
Proof of insurance/green card.
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
Toll stickers are required or else you may be fined, they are available from filling stations in Slovenia and in neighbouring countries, from tobacconists, as well as from some shops at the border.
Proof of ID (Passport).
SPAIN
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Warning triangle.
Reflective jackets.
Drive on the right.
GB sticker or Euro plates.
Spare tyre.
Drivers of cars and motorcycles may exceed the speed limits by 20km/h in order to overtake a slower vehicle outside built-up areas, on roads with one lane in each direction.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
Proof of insurance/green card.
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
If you need to wear glasses, you are required to carry an additional pair when driving.
In some cities, cars must be parked on different sides of the road according to the day of the week.
Proof of ID (Passport).
Vehicles parked during the night on inadequately lit streets must have their side lights illuminated.
The use of earpieces or headphones while driving is banned.
SWEDEN
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Winter tyres.
Screenwash additive.
Drive on the right.
Shovel.
Warning triangle.
Headlamp beam deflectors.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
It is illegal to drive without headlights, even in daylight.
Proof of insurance/green card.
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
Proof of ID (Passport).
SWITZERLAND
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
If you usually wear glasses or contact lenses, you must carry a spare pair with you in the car.
Snow chains.
A motorway sticker if you're driving on the motorway - you can buy this at the border and at most petrol stations.
Drive on the right.
You must use dipped headlights when driving through tunnels - and it's recommended you use them the rest of the time too.
Headlamp converters.
Warning triangle.
GB sticker on the back of your car - even if your car has 'Euro-plates'.
During daylight hours, outside built up areas drivers must sound their horns before sharp bends where visibility is limited, after dark this warning must be given by flashing headlights.
Documents
Key things to know
Motor insurance certificate.
Valid UK driving licence.
In Switzerland, pedestrians generally have right of way and expect vehicles to stop. Some pedestrians may just step into the road when on crosswalks and will expect your vehicle to stop.
TURKEY
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
GB sticker on the back of your car - even if your car has 'Euro-plates'.
Two warning triangles.
Drive on the right.
Spare wheel.
You must use dipped headlights during the day, when driving through Turkey.
Fire extinguisher.
First aid kit.
Headlamp converters.
Documents
Key things to know
Motor insurance certificate.
Valid UK driving licence.
You must have two warning triangles in you car and place them up to 30m in front and behind your car and have your hazard warning lights lit if involved in an accident or if you break down.
If you're driving at night, or in rural areas, watch out for livestock or unlit farm vehicles.
UKRAINE
Compulsory Essentials Checklist
Rules of the Road
Headlamp beam deflectors.
Warning triangle.
Drive on the right.
First aid kit.
Fire extinguisher.
In winter conditions, approximately from November to April, vehicles must have winter tyres on all wheels, with a minimum tread depth of 6 mm.
You must use dipped headlights during the day between 1 October and 30 April and outside
these dates in poor daytime visibility.
Documents
Key things to know
Full, valid driving licence.
Proof of insurance/green card.
If you have held a driving licence for less than two years you must not exceed 43mph (70km/h).
Proof of ownership (V5C Certificate).
Proof of ID (Passport).
International driving permit.
Albania
Serbia
Romania
Russia
Andorra
San Marino
Armenia
Austria
Azerbaijan
Belarus
Belgium
Bosnia and
Herzegovina
Bulgaria
Croatia
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Georgia
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Iceland
Ireland
Italy
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Macedonia
Malta
Moldova
Monaco
Montenegro
Netherlands
Norway
Poland
Portugal
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey
Ukraine
Disclaimer:
This is just an overview of some of the key driving laws in each country, please be sure to check all local laws prior to driving in those countries.
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