The exit of the United Kingdom from the European Union brought considerable changes across various sectors, including driving licences. EU driving licence holders living in or visiting the UK face new rules and procedures that affect how they can drive, exchange their licence, and understand their rights on UK roads. Brexit marked the end of several automatic recognitions between the UK and EU regarding driving licences. Previously, EU licences were generally recognized at face value within the UK, allowing holders to drive vehicles without needing additional permits or steps. Post-Brexit, while many arrangements remain similar, certain key changes require attention, especially for those intending to reside in the UK long-term or drive commercially.
Driving in the UK with an EU Licence: What You Need to Know
EU driving licence holders can continue driving in Great Britain with their original licences as long as those licences remain valid and up to date. However, certain conditions apply: if you become a UK resident and are aged 70 or older, or if you have been residing in the UK for over three years, you are required to exchange your EU driving licence for a UK one to legally continue driving.
EU licence holders living regularly in the UK must also adhere to the UK’s requirements regarding licence renewal and medical fitness, which may differ from those in their home countries. For short visits or temporary stays, an EU driving licence remains valid without the necessity of obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP). These continuities are backed by international agreements recognized by the UK government, designed to facilitate easy travel and residency transitions between the UK and EU member states.
Exchanging an EU Licence for a UK Licence: When and How?
Exchanging an EU driving licence for a UK driving licence is generally a straightforward administrative task. It involves completing form D1, which is available at post offices or online on the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) website, along with paying a fee currently set at £43.
Typically, this process does not require you to undertake a practical driving test, making the exchange relatively simple for most drivers. However, exchanging your licence becomes mandatory when you reach the age of 70 or after you have been a UK resident for three years, whichever is later. It is important to note that continuing to drive on an EU driving licence in the UK beyond these points without exchanging it renders driving in the UK unlawful. Therefore, meeting these requirements is essential to maintain compliance with UK driving laws.
Special Considerations for Commercial Drivers with EU Licences
The regulations governing lorry, bus, and minibus driving licences—collectively known as vocational licences post-Brexit are more complex compared to standard car licences. For drivers holding an EU vocational licence, those under the age of 45 can continue to drive on their existing licence until they reach 45 years old or for five years after establishing UK residency, depending on which period is longer, before they are required to exchange it for a UK licence. Drivers aged between 45 and 65 may legally drive until they are 66 or for five years after becoming UK residents, whichever period ends sooner, and must exchange their licence thereafter.
Drivers aged 66 or older are required to exchange their EU vocational licence immediately upon residency in the UK. Additionally, medical certification is necessary for drivers exceeding certain age thresholds to ensure they remain fit to operate heavyweight and passenger vehicles. This process involves submitting specific documents, such as forms D2 and D4, to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), which assesses medical fitness and processes licence exchanges accordingly.
Driving Insurance and Vehicle Documentation
UK vehicle insurance now covers minimum third-party liability for driving in the EU, meaning UK drivers do not typically need to carry a separate insurance ‘green card’ when driving abroad in most European countries. Conversely, EU and EEA nationals driving in the UK must carry valid UK vehicle insurance or equivalent documentation.
Drivers should also carry vehicle registration documents (e.g., V5C log book) at all times to comply fully with UK and EU regulations. Those towing trailers or caravans may have to register these separately, especially if commercial or exceeding weight thresholds.
Displaying UK Stickers and Other Requirements
On 28 September 2021, the United Kingdom adopted a ‘UK’ vehicle identification sticker, replacing the ‘GB’ sticker previously used for driving abroad. Drivers must display this sticker on the rear of their UK-registered vehicles when driving in the EU or internationally, unless the licence plate itself includes the ‘UK’ identifier with a Union flag.
Some countries, such as Spain, Malta, and Cyprus, require this sticker regardless of whether it is on the plate, so UK drivers should ensure compliance to avoid penalties.
Steps If You Don’t Have a Licence or Need One in the UK
For those without driving licences and residing in the UK, the process involves applying for a provisional licence, then passing the theory and practical driving tests administered by the DVSA.
Applicants must be residents (living in the UK for at least 185 days in the previous year) and meet minimum age requirements—17 years for cars and motorcycles; 21 for buses and lorries.
New drivers should also familiarize themselves with the UK Highway Code and consider professional driving courses to prepare for tests.
Practical Advices
- Can I keep my EU licence forever? No. You must exchange it after turning 70 or three years of UK residency.
- Do I need an international driving permit (IDP)? Generally not for EU licences, but yes if you have a paper or non-photocard licence or drive in certain countries.
- Is insurance included for driving abroad? Yes, UK insurance covers third-party liability in most EU countries.
- What if I move back to an EU country? You may need to exchange your UK licence for a local one dependent on that country’s rules.
- Are there changes coming to licence categories? The EU has proposed updates allowing heavier vehicles to be driven with standard licences, but the UK will decide locally.