Things You Should Know Before You Buy an EU Driving License
If you're looking to purchase an EU driving license, there are a few things you should know. This article will cover the basics like the legality, requirements and more.
The third EU driving licence directive came into force on 19 January 2013. The new driver's licence replaces the 110 different types of licences by a card-style license that shares features.
Legality
One of the most enjoyable aspects about traveling abroad is taking your car or other motorized vehicle on roads that you've never been before. Driving in Europe can be a challenge if you do not have an European style license. While several countries, including the US allow you to drive without a special license for up to 90 days, it's wise to get an international driver's license (IDL) in case you intend to stay longer than that.
An IDL is a document that shows your photo and signature, along with the name of the country you're from as well as the date of issue. The IDL is designed to help authorities and police identify you when you're stopped for any reason in another country. It's not required for all drivers but it can save you time and trouble in the long term.
The European Driving Licence (ECDL) is a type of driving license issued to residents of the European Economic Area. It is designed to replace the 110 distinct driving licence designs that were previously in use in the European Union and three EFTA states. It is a credit-card-style document that has the same validity as the national driving licence.
To obtain an EU driving license you must be at least 18 years old and have an active DVLA or similar driving license from your country of origin. In addition, you must be able to provide proof of your identity. You must provide your full name as well as your birth date and signature. You must also be medically fit to drive, as attested by a physician.
Additionally, some EU countries have age restrictions for renting vehicles. Drivers over 70 years old may have difficulty renting vehicles in Croatia and Hungary. They might also have difficulty in Slovakia, Slovenia and Turkey. Seniors over 75 years older may have issues in Greece and Ireland. Certain countries require you to carry a temporary car insurance policy in the event of an accident.
Requirements
If you're traveling to Europe it's essential to know your rights as a driver and responsibilities. It is also advisable to create an inventory of the details of your license in case it gets lost or damaged. This will allow you to avoid legal issues when driving in foreign countries.
There are limitations on the use of an international driving license in the majority of EU countries. For instance, certain countries require that the driver be at least 18 years old. The driving licence must also be issued in the same country as the person's usual residence. For most people it is their home country. Some choose the country with whom they have professional connections.
Before, driving licenses were issued by the individual member states. The new European driving licence was introduced in 2013 and is valid in all member states. It is the same size as credit cards and has a chip to prevent counterfeiting. It is also renewable and can be used for an extended period, subject to the country in which it is issued.
The new European driving licence allows drivers to change between two or more different EU countries. This is particularly useful for professionals who travel across borders to work. Previously, the rules were complex and confusing for those who were moving between EU countries. In order to exchange their license, they needed to apply to the authorities in the country where they lived for at least 185 consecutive days every year. This was a complicated process that did not always work for those with professional ties to more than one nation.
Realpassports LLC, for example, offers the option to purchase your driving licence online. These sites offer a convenient and secure method to purchase your European Driving License. You'll need to upload a clear and legible photocopy of your passport as well as the identification page of your driving licence. The website will verify the information, and you'll get your driving license in a matter of days.
Residents of the UK who drive in the EU country, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Norway or Switzerland, do not need an International Driving Permit (IDP). However, they must have their UK driving licence with them and have a comprehensive insurance policy. The vehicle's number plate must also display a UK sticker.
Costs
The costs of buying the EU driving licence vary. For instance, the cost of a driver's license in France is much higher than Germany. The cost of a theory test is also significantly higher in certain regions. This is due to the emergence of the health crisis, which has led to longer waiting time for the test. Some French regions also offer free lessons for those who pass the test in theory.
Before you travel abroad, it is a good idea to contact your credit card company as well as auto insurance provider if you are an American who would like to drive in Europe. If you don't have an international driver's license (IDL) or a valid passport, it may not be possible to rent a car in certain countries. It's important to know whether the car rental company you're working with will require an IDL, or not.
The EU Driving Licence is a plastic, credit card-like card which was introduced in January 2013. It replaced 110 different styles of driving licences and is valid for a period of 15 years. The new EU driving licence comes with a variety of security features to guard against fraud.
The EU driving license comes with an identification chip to identify the driver. The chip protects the card from forgeries and allow it to be used on public transportation as well as in government agencies. The driving licence is also designed to be durable, water-resistant and can withstand the harshest weather conditions.
The EU driving license is recognized by all member states. However, the authorities in your country of residence will apply its national laws regarding medical exams and validity periods to holders of EU driving licences.
Bulgaria is often cited as one of the most affordable places to obtain an EU driving licence. It is crucial to keep in mind that you have to communicate in Bulgaria at a high level to take the test. This could result in substantial costs. For example, if you want to drive in Lithuania you'll have to commit six months and EUR500 studying the language before you are able to take the test.
Security
Driving is a thrilling method to explore the continent of Europe. It allows you to discover charming villages and stunning landscapes at your own pace. It is important to know that the requirements for driving vary from country to country. Some 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 carry a first aid kit, a map, and a phone charger. This will help you avoid accidents or other emergency situations. Stay calm and ready to answer questions if are stopped by a cop. It is best to have an interpreter, particularly when the language of the police station is not your native tongue.
The new EU driving license is the size of a credit card and comes with multiple leading-edge security features. It is made from polycarbonate, the same material used to make bulletproof glasses. The images are laser-engraved on the card's core and not printed on the card's surface. It also features a distinct color scheme and number to stop counterfeiting. Additionally, it will expire after 15 years, much like to identity cards and passports.
Even though Europe is among the safest driving destinations but it's important to take extra care when travelling across the globe. You must be able to respond in the event of being stopped by a police official or exchange your driving licence with another driver if there is an accident. It's also important to determine whether your insurance policy for cars will cover you when driving in a foreign state.
Make sure your passport is current and has enough blank pages to allow for visas and entry stamps. You should apply for a visa well ahead of time if you're traveling to a place that requires one. If you're not sure what documents you need to bring Contact the embassy in the country you're visiting for more information.
The European Union has an agreement that allows its citizens to travel throughout the region without having to undergo passport checks at border crossings or airports. However, there is no harmonization of driving regulations between member states, and a few non-EU citizens may require an IDP in addition to their licenses in.