Things You Should Know Before You Buy an EU Driving License
You should be aware of several things prior to buying an EU driving licence. This article will provide the basics such as legality, requirements and more.
The third EU driving licence directive came into effect on 19 January 2013. The directive replaces the 110 different licence styles with a credit card-style driver's licence with shared features.
Legality
It's always enjoyable driving your car along new roads when you travel. Driving in Europe however, can be tricky when you don't have an EU-style driver's license. Many countries including the US allow driving without a license for up 90 days. However when you plan to stay longer than 90 days, you should get an international license.
An IDL is an official document that displays your signature and photo, along with the name of the country you're from and the date of the issue. The IDL helps officers and police to identify you if you are stopped by them for any reason. It's not mandatory for all drivers however it can save you time and effort in the long run.
The European Driving Licence (ECDL) is a type driving licence granted to citizens of the European Economic Area. It is designed to replace the various driving licence styles formerly used in the European Union and three EFTA states. It is a credit card-like document with the same validity as a national driving licence.
In order to get an EU driving license, you must be at minimum 18 years old and have a valid DVLA or equivalent driving licence from your country of origin. In addition, you must be able to prove evidence of your identity. This includes your full name, birth date and signature. You must also be medically fit to drive, which is confirmed to by a doctor.
Some EU countries also have age restrictions when renting vehicles. For instance, drivers over the age of 70 might not be able to rent vehicles in Croatia, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Turkey; while those over 75 may have issues in Greece and Ireland (though some rental companies rent to senior citizens when they have evidence of their health). Be aware that some countries require you carry a short-term insurance policy in case of an accident or damage to your vehicle.
Requirements
It is essential to know your driving obligations and rights when traveling to Europe. It's also helpful to make a list of your driver's license details in the event that you lose or damage it. This will help you avoid facing any legal issues while driving abroad.
A foreign driving license is valid in all EU countries, however there are some restrictions. Certain countries, like, require that drivers be 18 or older. The driving licence must also be issued in the same country as the person's normal residence. For the majority of people, this is their home country. For some, it is the country where they have professional ties.
In the past, driving licenses were issued by every member state. The new European driving licence was launched in 2013 and is valid across all member states. It's similar to a credit card and has an electronic chip that can ward off counterfeiting. It is also renewable and is valid for a long time depending on the country.
The new European driving licence also allows drivers to switch between two or more different EU countries. This is particularly beneficial for professionals who need to travel across borders for work. Before, those who relocated from one EU country to another had to contend with confusing and confusing regulations. To exchange conversational tone required applicants to apply to the authorities of the country where they had spent at minimum 185 consecutive days during the year. This was a lengthy procedure that did not always work for those who had professional ties in more than one country.
You can purchase your driving license online through companies like Realpassports LLC. These websites offer a convenient and secure method of purchasing your European Driving License. You'll have to upload a clear and legible photocopy of your passport as well as the identification page of your driving licence. The website will then verify the information and issue your driving licence in a few days.
UK residents who drive within the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland are not required to have an international driving permit (IDP). They need to have a UK driving license and comprehensive insurance coverage. They must also have a UK sticker on the number plate of their vehicle.
Costs
The cost of getting an EU driving license varies. For instance, the cost of a driver's license in France is higher than Germany. In some regions, the cost of a theory exam is also higher. The health crisis has led to longer wait times for practical tests. Some French regions also provide free classes to those who pass the test in theory.
Before you travel abroad, it's a good idea to contact your credit card company as well as auto insurance provider if you are an American who wants to drive in Europe. In some countries, renting a car isn't possible unless you've got an International Driver's License (IDL). It's important to know whether the car rental company you're using will require an IDL or not.
Presently, the EU Driving Licence is a plastic, credit card-like photo card that was introduced in January 2013. It replaced a variety of types of driving licences, and is valid for 15 years. To prevent fraud the new EU driving licence comes with a variety of security features.
The EU driving license includes an identification chip that identifies the driver. The chip protects the card from fraud and allow it to be used on public transport as well as in government agencies. Additionally the driving licence has been designed to be water-resistant and durable, so that it can withstand harsh weather conditions.
An additional advantage of the EU driving licence is that it's accepted by the authorities in all member states. However, the authorities in your country of residence will apply its national laws regarding medical examinations and validity dates to holders of EU driving licences.
Bulgaria is often touted as one of the most affordable places to get an EU driving licence. It is crucial to keep in mind that you need to speak the language at a high level to take the test. This can result in significant cost increases. If you want to be qualified to drive in Lithuania you'll need to study for six months the language and EUR500 before you can pass your test.
Security
Driving is an exhilarating way to explore the European continent. It gives you the freedom to discover charming villages and breathtaking landscapes at your own speed. Be aware that the requirements for driving differ from country to country. Certain European countries will accept the driving license from your home country However, some may require an International Driving Permit.
To ensure your safety while driving You should always have a first aid kit, a map and a charger for your phone. This can help you avoid accidents or other situations. Be calm and prepared to answer questions if you are stopped by a cop. If you're able it's a good idea bring an interpreter along particularly in the event that you don't speak the local language.
The new EU driving licence is the size and shape of a credit-card, and it includes multiple cutting-edge security features. It is made of polycarbonate the same material that is used to make bulletproof glasses. The images are laser-engraved into the card's core and not printed on the card's surface. It also has a unique color scheme and number to prevent counterfeiting. It will also expire after 15 years, much like to identity cards and passports.
Even though Europe is one the safest countries to drive however, it is essential to take extra care when travelling abroad. You should know how to react if you're stopped by a traffic official or if you want to exchange your driving licence with another driver in the event of an accident. It's also important to know whether your car insurance policy covers you when you're driving in a foreign nation.
It is also important to ensure that your passport is up to date and has enough blank pages to allow visas and entry stamps. If you're traveling to a country that requires a visa, you should apply for one in advance. If you're unsure what documents you will require, you should contact the embassy in the country you are visiting to learn more.
The European Union has a unique agreement that allows citizens to travel within the region without having to submit to passport checks at border crossings or airports. There isn't any harmonisation of driving laws between member states. Certain citizens from outside the EU will need an IDP to accompany their valid licenses.