Brexit drivers: now what happens?

PREVIOUSLY, SA businesspeople and citizens who had a United Kingdom (UK) driving licence could drive in the European Economic Area (EEA) with their UK driving licence.

Now that Britain is leaving the European Union (EU), there could be changes in the offing.

During the transition period, which will be for the remainder of the year, driving with a UK licence is likely to remain permissible.

After this, however, changes will occur.

The managing director of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, explains:

‘Ultimately, negotiations still need to take place to determine this.

‘Currently, it is believed the driving licence requirements will depend on the individual requirements of the specific country in the EU that you wish to enter.

‘In some countries, you will need to purchase one of three international driving permits (IDP) from the post office.

‘The necessity to do this and which IDP you require, will depend on the individual country and any countries that you pass through.

‘Which type of IDP you require could change once the transition period is over,’ says Herbert.

‘If you live or work in the EU with a UK driving licence, it is likely you will need to obtain a new one.

‘EU residents will need to either exchange their UK licences for one from their country of current residence, or undertake a new driving test.

‘If and when you need to complete either of these options depends on each country,’ Herbert explains.

He added that the issue of insurance still needs to be decided upon during negotiations:

‘Whether a Green Card, to prove one is insured to travel in the EU, is required from insurers when travelling in Europe in 2021, is still unclear.

‘Currently, UK insurers are required to provide a minimum level of cover to EU nations as standard.

‘If this does not continue in 2021, it may require people moving between the two areas to take out additional cover.

‘The expense of visas may also be added to this once negotiations are complete.

‘Currently, the UK still accepts licences from

Europe for both visitors and residents, however, following negotiations this could also change.

‘All other possible changes are still under negotiation as the UK prepares to make its exit.

‘Drivers must ensure once the exit happens next year, that they have researched and complied to the requirements of your country.

‘In the meantime, MasterDrive will keep people updated,’ says Herbert.