Introduction to the Green Card System

The International Motor Insurance Card, commonly known as the Green Card, is a vital document for motorists traveling between countries. Despite its name, it's not always green anymore! This internationally recognized certificate proves that a vehicle has at least the minimum compulsory insurance coverage required by the laws of the countries visited.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explain the Green Card system, its importance, when you need it, how to obtain one, and recent changes following Brexit and other regulatory updates.

What Exactly Is a Green Card?

The Green Card is a physical document that serves as proof of valid motor insurance when driving abroad. It's part of an international arrangement between insurance companies and countries that aims to facilitate cross-border vehicle travel while ensuring proper insurance coverage.

The system is managed by the Council of Bureaux, an organization that coordinates the relationship between national insurance bureaus. Each participating country has a designated national bureau that oversees Green Card matters for that country.

Originally, the document was always printed on green paper (hence the name), but since 2020, it can also be printed on white paper and remains equally valid.

When Do You Need a Green Card?

Whether you need a Green Card depends on which countries you're traveling between:

Within the European Economic Area (EEA) and Other Specific Countries

If you're driving between countries in the European Economic Area (EU countries plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway), as well as Switzerland, Andorra, Serbia, and the United Kingdom, you generally do not need to carry a physical Green Card. Your regular car insurance automatically provides the minimum required third-party coverage.

However, it's important to note that this is the minimum coverage – your comprehensive insurance benefits may not fully extend to these countries. Always check with your insurance provider about the exact coverage you have when traveling abroad.

Traveling to Non-EEA Countries

You will need a Green Card when driving to countries outside the EEA that participate in the Green Card system but don't have specific agreements with the EU. These include:

  • Albania
  • Azerbaijan
  • Belarus
  • Bosnia and Herzegovina
  • Iran
  • Israel
  • Moldova
  • Montenegro
  • Morocco
  • North Macedonia
  • Russia
  • Tunisia
  • Turkey
  • Ukraine

Post-Brexit Changes

Following Brexit, there was initially a requirement for UK drivers to carry Green Cards when traveling to EU countries, and for EU drivers to carry Green Cards when driving in the UK. However, as of August 2021, the European Commission announced that the UK would rejoin the Green Card-free circulation area, meaning Green Cards are no longer required in either direction.

Important Note

Regulations can change, so it's always advisable to check the current requirements with your insurance provider before traveling abroad with your vehicle, particularly if traveling to countries outside the EEA or if there have been recent political changes.

How to Obtain a Green Card

Getting a Green Card is typically a straightforward process:

  1. Contact Your Insurance Provider: Reach out to your insurance company at least two weeks before your planned trip. Many insurers now allow you to request a Green Card online through their website or app.
  2. Provide Details: You'll need to provide information about your vehicle, your travel dates, and the countries you plan to visit.
  3. Receive Your Document: Your insurer will issue the Green Card, which you can typically receive by email (to print yourself) or by post.
  4. Check the Validity: Ensure the Green Card covers your entire trip and all countries you plan to visit.

Costs Involved

Most insurance companies provide Green Cards free of charge as part of their service. However, some may charge a small administrative fee, typically between €5 and €20. If you're requesting a Green Card at very short notice, there might be an additional express fee.

Validity Period

Green Cards are typically issued with a specific validity period matching your requested travel dates, but not exceeding the period of your insurance policy. Most insurers will issue Green Cards valid for up to 90 days, though longer periods can be arranged if needed.

Format and Information on the Green Card

A Green Card contains several key pieces of information:

  • The title "INTERNATIONAL MOTOR INSURANCE CARD" in English and the language of the issuing country
  • The name and address of the issuing insurance company
  • A policy number or other means of identifying your insurance contract
  • The vehicle's registration number, or if not available, the chassis or engine number
  • The validity period
  • Country codes of the countries where the card is valid
  • The name of the national bureau in each country listed
  • Vehicle category (e.g., car, motorcycle, truck)
  • The name and address of the policyholder

Multiple Vehicles and Trailers

If you're traveling with multiple vehicles or with a trailer, there are specific considerations:

Multiple Vehicles

You need a separate Green Card for each vehicle. If you own multiple vehicles insured under the same policy, you'll still need individual Green Cards for each one that will be traveling abroad.

Trailers and Caravans

In most countries, a trailer is covered by the Green Card of the towing vehicle. However, some countries require separate Green Cards for trailers, especially if the trailer has its own registration plate. These countries include:

  • Andorra
  • Azerbaijan
  • Iceland
  • Moldova
  • Russia
  • Turkey

If you're traveling with a trailer to any of these countries, be sure to request a separate Green Card for it.

What to Do in Case of an Accident Abroad

If you're involved in an accident while driving in a foreign country:

  1. Ensure Safety: Ensure the safety of all involved parties and set up warning triangles if available.
  2. Contact Authorities: Call the local police to report the accident, especially if there are injuries or significant damage.
  3. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any relevant road signs or conditions.
  4. Exchange Information: Exchange personal and insurance details with the other drivers involved. Your Green Card contains most of the necessary insurance information.
  5. Complete the European Accident Statement: If possible, complete the European Accident Statement (also known as the Constat Amiable) with the other driver. This standardized form is recognized across Europe and helps document the circumstances of the accident.
  6. Contact Your Insurer: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Many insurers have dedicated emergency hotlines for incidents abroad.
  7. Keep Records: Keep copies of all documents, including police reports, witness statements, and medical reports if applicable.

Warning

Never sign any documents you don't understand. If necessary, request translation assistance from your insurance company or emergency assistance provider.

Recent Developments and Digital Green Cards

The Green Card system continues to evolve with technological advancements and regulatory changes:

White Paper Format

Since July 2020, Green Cards can be printed on white paper, eliminating the need for the traditional green paper. This change was made to facilitate the electronic transmission and printing of Green Cards by policyholders.

Digital Green Cards

Several countries are exploring the possibility of digital Green Cards that could be stored and displayed on mobile devices. However, as of 2023, the physical document (whether on green or white paper) remains the officially recognized format in most countries.

Brexit Adjustments

Following the UK's exit from the EU, there was initially confusion about Green Card requirements. As mentioned earlier, as of August 2021, the UK rejoined the Green Card-free circulation area, simplifying travel between the UK and EU/EEA countries.

Conclusion

The Green Card system is a practical solution that facilitates international road travel while ensuring that drivers maintain appropriate insurance coverage. While technological advancements and regulatory changes continue to evolve the system, the fundamental principle remains: providing proof of valid insurance coverage when driving across borders.

For those planning to drive abroad, particularly to countries outside the EEA, understanding the Green Card system is essential. By ensuring you have the correct documentation before traveling, you can avoid potential issues with local authorities and drive with confidence, knowing you have valid insurance coverage throughout your journey.

Always check the specific requirements for your destination countries before traveling, as regulations can change, and keep your Green Card with your vehicle documents when driving abroad.