Will UK driving licences be valid in Europe after Brexit and what is an International Driving Permit?

UK driving licence may not be valid in EU after a no-deal Brexit, according to a Government report.

Here is what may happen should Britain crash out of the union without making arrangements.

Brits driving in the EU may need a new International Driving permit from next MarchPA:Press Association Will UK driving licences be valid in Europe after Brexit?

After a no-deal Brexit UK drivers may have to get an international driving permit if they want to drive in some European countries.

The Government says following March 2019 “your driving licence may no longer be valid by itself” on the EU roads.

This emerged in September when the latest no-deal planning papers were published.

The European Commission recently claimed the UK’s departure from the EU could see the end of “mutual recognition” of licences.

What is an International Driving Permit?

If British licences are no longer recognised in Europe after the Brexit deal is signed, drivers may be forced to purchase an International Driving Permit (IDP), which would allow them to drive in the EU for up to 12 months.

Recommended for around 140 countries worldwide, the IDP is recognised by the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic and acts as temporary proof of driving ability for travellers.

An International Driving Permit isn’t the same as an International Driving Licence (IDL) – which isn’t a legally recognised document.

An IDP is already required for many nations including Egypt, India, Japan, Brazil and Argentina, although the US, Australia and Canada accept the current pink UK driving licence.

To apply for an IDP you must be over 18 and hold a valid UK driving licence.

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