Can I use my car abroad?

Most insurers will require you to inform them first before you go abroad. If you're going to drive outside the EEC, you also need to check out whether your policy meets the minimum level of insurance required by the laws of the countries you are proposing to drive through.

Also ask your insurance company for what is called "a Green Card". This is an internationally recognised document that confirms that your motor insurance is up to scratch as far as local motor insurance requirements are concerned. The Green Card is internationally recognised and ensure that you take it along with you in case of emergencies. Also take your insurance policy.

Is it true that a green card is not necessary for travel within the EEC?

Yes, it is true. A Green Card is not legally required to drive anywhere within the EEC.

Every EEC country complies with the First Directive on Motor Insurance and this means that Green Cards are not necessary within the EEC. The Directive says that every insurance policy issued in the EEC must provide the minimum insurance cover required by law in any other EEC country. Other non-EU signatories of this Agreement are Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Andorra and Croatia.

If you will be driving in countries that do not comply with the Directive, for example Turkey, Bulgaria, Serbia and Montenegro, a Green Card will be required.  However your UK insurer is not legally obliged to provide cover for these countries - it is at their underwriters' discretion.

There is however, a practical consideration beyond the strict legal position described above.