Sweeping changes in car insurance are on the horizon, set to revolutionise travel for millions. From 2025, British motorists will have the option to present a digital Green Card on their mobile phones rather than carrying a paper version.
This update means no more fumbling for printed documents when driving abroad, streamlining trips for both tourists and business travellers alike. The enhancement is a result of collaborative efforts between the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) and COB, who oversee the Green Card system.
Angus Eaton, the head honcho at MIB, has said: “Expanding the use of digital Green Cards is a significant step forward in simplifying cross-border travel experiences for motorists.”
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He further explained: “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.”
With the UK playing a pivotal role in the Green Card system, MIB pledges to continue its crucial mission in ensuring smooth cross-border journeys, aiding drivers as they navigate through Europe and further afield. Moreover, the MIB stressed: “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.”, reports Birmingham Live.
“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. 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.