Major updates to car insurance are set to make international travel smoother for millions starting January 1, 2025. British drivers will now have the convenience of bringing up their car insurance Green Card on their mobile phones instead of being obliged to carry a paper version.
This move is aimed at streamlining the process for those driving through countries that are part of the Green Card system, benefitting both holiday-goers and business travellers.
The advancement comes through cooperation between the MIB (Motor Insurers' Bureau) and COB, the controllers of the Green Card system. Angus Eaton, CEO at MIB, remarked: "Expanding the use of digital Green Cards is a significant step forward in simplifying cross-border travel experiences for motorists."
"By allowing all drivers to carry a digital Green Card on a mobile device, instead of a physical copy, this makes the process of taking a vehicle abroad quicker and easier for everyone involved. We'd like to thank COB and our wider international counterparts, for helping to ensure the digital Green Card scheme could be expanded."
He added that as the UK's representatives within the Green Card system, they'll stay committed to ensuring hassle-free transnational travel, aiding drivers as they navigate throughout Europe and beyond. The MIB also advised: "Give your insurer as much notice as possible (ideally 6 weeks) when requesting a Green Card, to ensure it can be arranged in good time."
"In some cases, drivers may need to carry an extra Green Card if towing a trailer or caravan, this may also need to be registered before travel."
Countries now accepting digital Green Cards include Albania, Azerbaijan, Moldova, Morocco, North Macedonia, Tunisia, Turkey, and Ukraine. Motorists must request a digital Green Card from their insurer before travelling to any of these destinations, reports Birmingham Live.
For travel to other countries within what is known as the Green Card Free Circulation Area, UK motorists will not require a Green Card at all.
