Post Brexit Driving Licence Challenges
Thursday, 11. October 2018
Warnings have been issued regarding the non-acceptance of UK driving licences in the EU in the event that we exit next spring without a deal. A report has been issued by the Department for Transport (DfT) explaining what could happen for the benefit of both businesses and private drivers in the event that we leave without an agreement.
UK driving licences will no longer be valid according to licence checking firm Licence Bureau having analysed the DfT report. They have said that in order for UK drivers to travel around Europe they will need two different international driving permits (IDP) from March 2019.
Licence Bureau MD Malcolm Maycock suggested that businesses and individuals should be aware of the issue and maybe start taking action to prepare for it. Especially if businesses need to travel into Europe immediately after Brexit or individuals have holidays planned that require them to drive or hire a car shortly after exit date.
Whilst it is hoped that we won’t leave the EU without an agreement these sorts of issues need to be taken into account. According to the DfT the available IDP’s are based on rules agreed in 1949 and 1968. The 1949 IDP lasts for 12 months and is recognised in Ireland, Spain, Malta and Cyprus, while the 1968 version is valid for 3 years and would be recognised in all other EU countries along with Norway and Switzerland.
And that is just the tip of the detail iceberg that has to be resolved in the event we exit without an agreement. By Graham Hill
