Why restrict your road trip holiday to the United Kingdom? With a bit of planning, it is fairly straightforward to take a hire car out of the UK, but there are some rules to be aware of.
Cross border road trips in a rental car, in and out of the United Kingdom are now popular with families wanting to visit and discover a range of places in one trip at their own leisure. Here is everything you need to know about crossing European Borders in a rental car.
Most major rental companies from England allow their vehicles to be taken to Northern Ireland and/or the Republic of Ireland, but this may depend on the vehicle you've rented. The supply to the rental provider of information such as the number of people travelling in the vehicle and the names of all drivers is often a mandatory requirement. Keep in mind that most car rental providers require at least two days of notice before your jorney.
Most providers also require that the rental vehicle is returned to the territory it was collected from, and not all vehicle types are permitted to be taken to Northern Ireland and/or the Republic of Ireland. If you’re not sure of any specific rules, please contact your provider or, if you need further assistance, contact our Customer Care Team.
Some rental car providers may levy a surcharge and/or cross-border fee for taking the vehicle to Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland, and there may also be additional costs with regard to roadside assistance or insurance. Most require the purchase of Continental Cover which provides the documentation to prove insurance cover, along with 24-hour breakdown assistance whilst overseas. Please see the provider’s Terms and Conditions for specific details related to your provider and choice of vehicle.
If you intend to travel with your rental car from the UK across to mainland Europe — for example from UK to France, Germany, or Belgium – you may be allowed to drive, although you will need to tell the rental company in advance. Please note that some restrictions may apply — for example in Germany, winter tyres are compulsory during certain months of the year. You must also inform the rental company of your plans when booking the vehicle. It is also important to check that your driving licence is valid in the European country you intend to explore.
Your need for an International Driving Permit will depend on your residence, type of licence, and the country you are planning to travel to. Please contact your rental car prodiver if you are unsure of the elligibity of your licence in the country you are planning to drive in.
Important InformationCross border rentals and restrictions
You will be required by law to be in possession of a VE103B form and an authorisation from your rental car company if you want to take your rental car from the UK across to mainland Europe. Note that additional charges may apply, and the purchase of continental cover is often required. Additional equipment may be required for vehicles being taken out of the UK mainland to meet the legal requirements of the country you are visiting — it is your responsibility to purchase this additional equipment.
