Can You Use a UK Driving Licence in the EU?
Everything you need to know to hit the road across Europe – tables, lists, and FAQs included.
1. Why the Question Matters Now
Since the United Kingdom left the European Union in January 2020, the rules that once allowed seamless use of a UK‑issued driving licence throughout the bloc have been rewritten. If you’re planning a vacation in Spain, a business trip to Germany, or a longer stay in France, you’ll want to know:
- Will your UK licence be accepted at the rental desk?
- Do you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a translation?
- When must you exchange your licence for a local one?
Below you’ll find a clear, step‑by‑step guide that answers these questions and helps you avoid fines, insurance headaches, or the embarrassment of being turned away at the border.
2. Short‑Term Visits (up to 12 months)
| Country | Licence Accepted? | Need an IDP? | What to Do If Asked |
|---|---|---|---|
| Austria | Yes (UK licence) | No | Show licence + passport |
| Belgium | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Croatia* | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Cyprus | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Czech Republic | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Denmark | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Estonia | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Finland | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| France | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Germany | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Greece | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Hungary | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Ireland | Yes (Reciprocal) | No | Show licence + passport |
| Italy | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Latvia | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Lithuania | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Luxembourg | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Malta | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Netherlands | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Poland | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Portugal | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Romania | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Slovakia | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Slovenia | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Spain | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Sweden | Yes | No | Show licence + passport |
| Note | Croatia allows UK licences for visitors, but after Brexit the status may change; always double‑check before traveling. |
Key takeaway: For tourists, business travellers, and anyone staying less than 12 months, a UK licence alone is generally sufficient in every EU country. An International Driving Permit is not required, provided you can produce your licence and a valid passport or ID card.
3. Long‑Term Stays (12 months +)
If you plan to live, work, study, or retire in an EU country, the “short‑term” exemption disappears. After a year of residence, most EU states require you to exchange your UK licence for a local one.
| Country | Exchange Required? | Grace Period | How to Exchange |
|---|---|---|---|
| Austria | Yes | 6 months | Submit licence, passport, and proof of residence to local driver‑license authority. |
| Belgium | Yes | 12 months | Apply at the Service Public Fédéral Mobilité et Transports with a translation of your licence. |
| Croatia | Yes | 12 months | Exchange at the MUP (Ministry of the Interior) – you may need a medical certificate. |
| Cyprus | Yes | 12 months | Submit to the Road Transport Department; pass a theory test if you hold a category B licence only. |
| Czech Republic | Yes | 6 months | Exchange at the Odbor silničního dopravy; requirement of a Czech translation. |
| Denmark | Yes | 12 months | Apply at Motorstyrelsen; you must pass a theory test if you hold a “full” licence only. |
| Estonia | Yes | 6 months | Submit to the Transpordiamet; medical exam required for certain categories. |
| Finland | Yes | 12 months | Exchange at the Traficom office; a translation of the licence is needed. |
| France | Yes | 12 months | Apply at the Préfecture; you’ll need a certified translation and a medical certificate for certain categories. |
| Germany | Yes | 6 months | Exchange at the Führerscheinstelle; you must provide a translation and proof of residence. |
| Greece | Yes | 6 months | Submit to the Ministry of Transport; a medical certificate required for categories C and D. |
| Hungary | Yes | 12 months | Exchange at the Közlekedési Hatóság; a translation of the licence is required. |
| Italy | Yes | 12 months | Exchange through the Motorizzazione Civile; you must provide a translation and possibly a health check. |
| Latvia | Yes | 6 months | Apply at the Transport Police; translation required. |
| Lithuania | Yes | 12 months | Exchange at the Transport Department; may require a health certificate. |
| Luxembourg | Yes | 12 months | Submit to the Service des automobiles; translation needed. |
| Malta | Yes | 12 months | Exchange at the Transport Malta office; a simple form and proof of residence suffice. |
| Netherlands | Yes | 12 months | Apply at the RDW; a translation is mandatory. |
| Poland | Yes | 6 months | Exchange at the Wydział Komunikacji; a translation and health certificate may be required. |
| Portugal | Yes | 12 months | Exchange at the Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes; translation and proof of residence needed. |
| Romania | Yes | 12 months | Apply at the Direcţia Regim Permise de Conducere și Înmatriculare a Vehiculelor; translation required. |
| Slovakia | Yes | 6 months | Exchange at the Dopravný úrad; translation mandatory. |
| Slovenia | Yes | 12 months | Apply at the Uprava za promet; translation required. |
| Spain | Yes | 6 months | Exchange at the Jefatura de Tráfico; you must present a certified translation (or obtain a “British licence with Spanish translation”). |
| Sweden | Yes | 12 months | Exchange at the Transportstyrelsen; a translation and health check may be needed. |
Quick tip: The “grace period” is the maximum time you can keep driving on your UK licence after establishing residency. In most cases it ranges from 6 to 12 months. As soon as you can, start the exchange process to avoid penalties.
4. Do You Need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
| Situation | IDP Required? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Short‑term tourist (≤ 12 months) | No | Your UK licence is directly recognised; most car‑rental firms accept it without additional paperwork. |
| Long‑term resident (≥ 12 months) | No, but useful | An IDP does not replace the exchange requirement; however, it can be handy while you wait for the local licence to be issued. |
| Driving a vehicle outside the EU (e.g., Norway, Switzerland, Turkey) | Yes in many cases | Those countries are not EU members; an IDP often bridges the legal gap. |
| Non‑English speaking authorities who ask for a translation | No (use a certified translation instead) | An IDP is a translation, but many EU states prefer an official translation in the local language. |
Bottom line: For EU travel you generally won’t need an IDP, but it can smooth over occasional language barriers and is mandatory for some non‑EU destinations.
5. How to Get a Certified Translation (If Needed)
- Choose an approved translator – Many embassies list certified translators. In the UK, the Institute of Linguists and Chartered Institute of Linguists (CIOL) maintain directories.
- Submit a clear copy of your licence – Ensure the front and back are legible.
- Ask for an “official” stamp – The translation must be accompanied by a statement of accuracy and a signature/seal.
- Keep both originals and the translation together – Carry them in the vehicle, alongside your passport and insurance documents.
Most translations cost between £30–£60 and can be delivered within 48 hours if you use an online service.
6. Practical Checklist for Driving in the EU
Before You Go
- ✅ Verify that your licence is still valid (no pending renewals).
- ✅ Print a copy of your passport and insurance certificate.
- ✅ Check the post‑Brexit travel advisory for the country you’re visiting.
While You’re There (≤ 12 months)
- ✅ Keep your licence and passport together at all times.
- ✅ If you rent a car, bring your licence, passport, and a credit card in the driver’s name.
- ✅ Familiarise yourself with local traffic signs – many are similar, but a few differ (e.g., “priority to the right” in many EU nations).
If You Move Permanently
- ✅ Register your address with the local authorities within the first month.
- ✅ Apply for a residence permit (if required) – many EU countries tie licence exchange to residency documentation.
- ✅ Book an appointment with the local driver‑license office before your grace period ends.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: I’m only staying 8 weeks in Italy. Can I use my UK licence without any extra paperwork?
A: Yes. For short visits (under 12 months) a UK licence is fully accepted. Show your licence and passport when picking up a rental car.
Q2: What happens if I’m stopped by the police in Germany after 10 months of residence?
A: You’ll be within the 12‑month grace period, so you can still drive on your UK licence. However, it’s advisable to start the exchange process early to avoid a rushed appointment.
Q3: My licence is a Category C (large vehicle). Do I need a medical certificate to exchange it in Spain?
A: Yes. For professional categories (C, D, CE, etc.) most EU states require a recent medical fitness test. Spain, France, and Germany are among the stricter jurisdictions.
Q4: I have a UK licence issued before 1998 (the “old style”). Is it still valid in the EU?
A: It remains valid for short stays, but many EU authorities will demand a photocard version for exchange. Consider applying for a replacement photocard licence before you travel.
Q5: Can I drive a motorbike (Category A) with my UK licence in the Netherlands?
A: Absolutely, provided you have a full Category A licence and you’re within the short‑stay period. For long‑term stays, you’ll need to exchange the licence – a medical test may be required.
Q6: Do I need an IDP for driving in Switzerland?
A: Switzerland is not an EU member, but it recognises UK licences for short visits. An IDP is recommended for added security, especially if you plan to drive in the alpine region where road signs may be multilingual.
Q7: I’m a UK citizen living in France and I lost my licence. What do I do?
A: Report the loss to the UK DVLA (you can apply for a replacement online) and also inform the French police. In the meantime, you can apply for a temporary driving document from the DVLA, which is acceptable for short‑term use while you arrange an exchange.
Q8: Will Brexit affect my insurance premium when renting a car in the EU?
A: Rental companies now treat UK drivers as non‑EU customers, which can add a modest surcharge (typically €5‑€20 per day). The impact varies by provider, so shop around and confirm the total cost before booking.
8. Final Thoughts
Driving across Europe after Brexit is still very doable, but the rules have shifted from “automatic acceptance forever” to “acceptance for a limited time, then exchange required.” By keeping the following principles in mind, you’ll stay legal, avoid costly fines, and enjoy the freedom of the open road:
- Short stay? Your UK licence is enough—just carry your passport.
- Long stay? Start the licence‑exchange process before the grace period ends (usually 6‑12 months).
- Translations and IDPs are rarely required for EU travel but can be useful in edge cases.
- Check each country’s specific rules—the tables above give you a solid overview, but always verify the latest guidance before you set off.
Now that you have the facts, you can focus on the truly important part of road‑tripping: choosing the best scenic routes, tasting local cuisine, and making memories that will last a lifetime. Safe travels—and may your mileage be plentiful!