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Contact Us: 01653 604300

Yorkshire Fleet

By Admin

image of a car on the continent of Europe

Taking a lease car abroad can definitely be a tricky thing to try and do, especially if you’re heading to a country you’ve never been to before. Whilst there are many people who choose to hire a car once they get to a foreign country, this does present its own unique problems.

Whilst there’s a good chance that in most other countries you’ll be driving on the opposite side of the road, the hire cars that you can get once there will also have some unfamiliar controls. The steering wheel now on the passenger side, changing hands for switching gears, and pedals being positioned differently can all throw your driving instincts off!

With all of these factors to think about, it’s no wonder that you might now be asking “Can I take my lease car abroad?” The good news is, yes, you can! Leasing cars and other vehicles lets you do just that. However, there are a few things you’ll need to do, rather than just jump behind the wheel and drive yourself onto the continent.

But, so long as you get these minor things sorted before you set off, you can look forward to your adventure with peace of mind, knowing that your trusty, familiar car is right there with you.

What Paperwork Is Needed When Taking A Lease Car Abroad?

image of documentation and paperwork

The first thing you’re going to need to be aware of before hitting the road is the bits of paperwork that you’ll need to sort out. Don’t worry, it’s straightforward, and we’re here to walk you through it in no time!

First things first, you’ll need your VE103 Certificate. This is the most crucial little part of the documentation as it proves that you have permission to take the vehicle out of the UK. The VE103 certificate shows that your finance company, which technically owns the car, has given you the green light to travel abroad with it.

Next up, make sure that you’ve got your VE103B certificate. Think of this more as a stand-in for your vehicle’s original documents, like the logbook. When you’re driving abroad, you’ll need to show this to authorities if they ask for your car’s documentation. It’s basically your vehicle’s passport! 

So, once again the answer to the question “Can I take my lease car abroad?” Is yes! However, you do need to make sure you have these certificates sorted. They’re essential for smooth sailing – or rather, smooth driving – on your holiday.  

Make Sure You Check Your Insurance & Breakdown Cover

Right, now that the paperwork for actually getting your vehicle abroad is sorted, let’s check and make sure your paperwork for if the vehicle breaks down or is damaged still holds up abroad.

When you know that you’re going to be taking a lease car abroad, it’s absolutely vital that you check that your breakdown and motor insurance covers you for driving on the continent. Some insurers might reduce the level of protection when you’re outside the UK, so it’s a good idea to double-check what’s included in your policy. You don’t want to be caught out with only basic cover if something goes wrong.

The easiest way to make sure you’re all covered and able to drive with peace of mind? Give your insurance provider a ring and ask specifically about European cover. Find out what’s included and see if you need to add any extra coverage. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, and the huge expense of not being covered when you’re in a foreign country is certainly not something you want to end up with.  

What Are The Different Driving Rules In Other Countries Outside Of The UK

an image of a warning triangle on a road, sopmething which is needed by law in many European countries

Having got all of the paperwork and bureaucracy out of the way – the next major thing to do is to make sure you are familiar with the driving rules of the country you’re going to be taking your lease car to. 

Each country has its own quirks and regulations, and being prepared can save you a lot of hassle. Plus, don’t forget to pop a UK sticker on your leased vehicle to let everyone know where you’re from! It’s not just a decoration, it’s a legal requirement when taking your car abroad!

France

High-vis jacket: You’ll need a high-vis jacket for everyone in the car, and they should be within easy reach.

 

Warning triangle: Essential for if you break down or have an accident to alert other road users.

 

Breathalyser: While not strictly enforced, it’s a good idea to carry one as some local police officers will check if they pull you over.

 

Clean air sticker: Required in certain cities to show your vehicle’s emissions category.

 

Winter tyres: These are necessary if you’re driving in winter conditions and your tires are likely to be checked.

Spain

High-vis jacket: As with France these are mandatory in Spain. Again, one for each passenger, and keep them handy inside the car.

 

Two red warning triangles: Spanish law requires two of these for breakdowns rather than just one in France!

 

Spare wheel: A must-have and a legal requirement when driving in Spain, or at the very least you must have a tyre repair kit in the car at all times.

 

Headlamp beam deflectors: These are needed in Spain for driving on the right-hand side of the road.

Italy

High-vis jacket: There’s a theme developing here. Once again, required if you’re stopped on the roadside.

 

Warning triangle: The theme continues, most European countries see these as essential for signalling breakdowns or accidents. Make sure it’s easily accessible.

 

Headlamp beam deflectors: Necessary for night driving to avoid dazzling other drivers.

 

Winter tyres: Compulsory in winter conditions, especially in mountainous areas. Your tires will almost certainly be checked during this season so don’t risk it.

Germany

High-vis jacket: No difference in Germany than the rest of Europe. You must have one for each person in the car. They should be stored within easy reach.

 

Warning triangle: In Germany these are also essential for emergencies, and must be kept in a place where you can access it quickly.

 

First-aid kit: A fully stocked first-aid kit is mandatory if you’re taking a lease car to Germany. Check the expiration dates on all items to ensure they are still valid too!

 

Environmental emissions badge: Required by law in low-emission zones. Check which cities require this and find how to obtain one for your leased vehicle.

 

Winter tyres: Necessary in winter weather conditions. German police are quite strict about this, so make sure your tires are up to standard.

Portugal

High-vis jacket: Must have one in the car at all times, for each passenger. Keep them within easy reach.

 

Warning triangle: Essential for breakdowns. Make sure it’s easily accessible.

 

Approved child seat: Something a bit different to the rest of Europe, Portugal requires Child Seats for children under 12. Make sure it meets the EU standards, which can be found here.

Netherlands

  • Headlamp converters: Needed to adjust your headlights for driving on the right side of the road. It prevents dazzling oncoming traffic.

 

  • Warning triangle: Must be used in case of a breakdown. Ensure it’s stored in an easily accessible location.

 

Strict Zero-Tolerance Drink-Driving Policies

an image of a person drinking whilst driving, something which is completely illegal with zero tolerance in some European countries

Whilst there are the common themes here, like Warning Triangles, High-Vis Jackets and Headlamp Beam Deflectors – some European nations have much stricter drunk driving rules compared to the UK. Places like Hungary, Romania, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic enforce a zero-tolerance policy. So, it’s best to avoid alcohol entirely if you’re planning to drive in any of these countries.

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