I want to drive my car in another EU country. Is my insurance valid there?

What the Law Says

EU law guarantees that a valid motor insurance policy issued in one Member State automatically provides the minimum required third-party liability coverage in all other EU countries.

The Motor Insurance Directive (2009/103/EC) ensures cross-border recognition of compulsory motor insurance. This means your national policy must meet your home country’s minimum legal cover — and that cover extends across the EU.

The minimum third-party liability cover required is at least €1 million per claim for bodily injury and property damage combined — though many countries require higher amounts (e.g., €6 million in Germany, €80 million in France). Your home policy must meet or exceed your own country’s minimum, and that satisfies the EU-wide requirement.

You do not need to buy additional insurance to drive temporarily in another EU country. However, you must carry proof of insurance — typically your policy certificate. A Green Card is not mandatory in the EU since 2021 but may still be requested by authorities or insurers abroad as supplementary evidence.

Statutory Text

Every Member State shall take all appropriate measures to ensure that civil liability in respect of the use of vehicles normally based in its territory is covered by insurance.

— Directive 2009/103/EC, Art. 3 — Compulsory insurance

Statutory Text

The insurance referred to in Article 3 shall cover liability for damage caused in the territory of any Member State.

— Directive 2009/103/EC, Art. 4 — Territorial scope

What to Do

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