Provisional driving licences are not valid outside of Jersey.
If you are intending to move to another country, you will need to get a local driving licence. Check with the embassy for the country you are moving to. You may be able to exchange your Jersey driving licence without the need to undertake a further driving test.
In certain countries you will also be required to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP).
There are 3 IDPs:
The one you need depends on where you're driving and you may need to carry more than one if driving in multiple countries. For advice and to apply for an IDP, you should contact your parish hall.
To apply for an IDP you'll need to:
- complete the application form available from your parish hall
- return the completed form and a passport photo together with the £10 fee
France do not currently require Jersey licence holders to carry an IDP.
Additional documents and equipment to be carried
When driving abroad as well as your full driving licence and IDP, if required, you must carry the following documents and equipment:
- a valid passport for each vehicle occupant not resident in that country
- the original vehicle registration document (VRD1)
- insurance certificate providing a minimum of third party cover to drive in that country. You should also check with your insurer if a green card is required
- reflective jackets located in the cabin of the vehicle for each occupant
- a GBJ identifier on the rear of the vehicle in the form of either a white oval sticker with a minimum letter height of 8cm, or 2cm when part of the number plate
- a means of adjusting your headlights when driving on the right-hand side of the road
- a warning triangle when travelling in a vehicle with 4 or more wheels in most EU countries
- a self-test breathalyser. Fines are not currently being imposed, however they are required by current French law
When riding in EU, all riders of motorcycles must also:
- have a crash helmet with reflective stickers on the front, rear and sides
- have a reflective jacket to wear in an emergency or breakdown
- wear CE certified gloves
Check the AA website or the country’s embassy for further guidance for other items that you need or advised to carry when driving abroad. If you fail to carry compulsory equipment in your vehicle the local police may apply on the spot fines.
Rules when driving abroad
Each country will have difference rules when driving. These will cover areas such as:
- rules of the road including speed limits, traffic lights and road signs
- driving whilst unfit (drink, drugs or illness)
- use of vehicle lights and towing
- use of mobile phones, headphones and other electrical equipment
- use of toll roads and low emission zones
There may be other rules that yiu must follow when driving abroad. Check the AA website or the country’s embassy for further guidance. If you fail to comply with the rules, the local police may apply on the spot fines.
Environmental zones
Countries are introducing zones that limit vehicle access based on the vehicle’s emissions. The number of these schemes is increasing. Before entering these zones you should check any relevant schemes and register your vehicle, if required, to avoid penalties. Common schemes currently in place that Jersey drivers may use are:
Emergency numbers
Whilst driving in other countries you may need to contact the emergency services. Some common emergency numbers are:
- Europe: 112
- UK: 999 or 112
- USA: 911
Vehicle inspections
While Jersey-registered vehicles are expected to meet international standards for road safety both in the Island and in Europe, they can be driven in the EU ahead of Periodic Technical Inspections (PTIs) being introduced in Jersey.
Travelling with a trailer, horsebox or caravan in the EU
All commercial trailers travelling in the EU must be registered.
Non-commercial trailers, horseboxes or caravans may also wish to register. This is voluntary and displaying a valid trailer registration plate may reduce waiting times at EU borders.
The fee for registering a trailer, horsebox or caravan is currently £33.50.
There will be an additional cost for the registration plate from local number plate suppliers.
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