Travelling Abroad? Top Tips For Fleets

It’s important to have the right documentation, safety equipment and be familiar with local driving conditions and laws when travelling abroad. Make sure you have a safe, stress-free and compliant driving experience. 

Use the helpful checklist below to prepare correctly before you leave the UK. 

TOP CONSIDERATIONS WHEN DRIVING ABROAD

1. You must have a valid VE103B certificate with you when driving abroad: 

• This is an authenticated document, produced by the DVLA, which allows the police and other authorities to verify that the person driving the vehicle has permission from the asset manager. 

• It can take up to two weeks to process the required paperwork. 

• You can apply for the certificate to cover the main driver and any named driver when accompanied by the main driver. 

• VWFS corporate and public sector fleet customers can use the ‘Travel Abroad’ tile on the e-Driverline portal or call i247 to request the certificate. 

2. If you’re planning to tow a trailer or caravan, your licence must include the category BE. 

3. When driving an electric vehicle, pre-plan routes to ensure access to charging points and check corporate charging accounts are accepted at the identified charging stations overseas. 

4. Display emissions stickers if visiting certain cities. See GOV.UK for details. 

5. Make sure you’re up to speed on the local laws and requirements. They can vary by country.  

6. Remember foreign police forces can still prosecute drivers even once you’re back in the UK. 

7. Specific requirements and regulations for individual countries can be found on GOV.UK.

PRIORITY CHECKLIST BEFORE LEAVING HOME: 

• Take your driving licence, VE103B certificate, proof of insurance and roadside assistance and paperwork for any trailer or caravan. 

• Ensure stickers are visible – including a UK sticker if it is not featured on the number plate, or the car still has a pre-Brexit GB sticker. 

• Display emission stickers if visiting certain cities. 

• Headlight convertor stickers, unless the beam can be manually adjusted. 

• Check you have emergency equipment, such as reflective vests and warning triangles. 

• Invest in a pre-trip car health check: tyre pressures and tread, fluid levels, wiper blade condition and light bulbs. 

Make travelling abroad simple by taking the time to pre-plan and understand local conditions and laws.