Guide 11. How to stay Legal When Operating Vehicles Abroad

Operating vehicles across international borders can open up lucrative opportunities for transport companies and drivers. Whether you’re transporting goods across the EU, delivering to clients in Asia, or managing fleet operations globally, staying compliant with legal regulations in each country is critical. Failure to do so can result in heavy fines, vehicle seizures, or the revocation of licences.

In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know to stay legal when operating vehicles abroad, covering key aspects like international driving licences, Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) requirements, and other cross-border transport rules.

1. Standard International Driving Licences

What is an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

An International Driving Permit is a translation of your domestic driving licence into multiple languages, recognised in over 140 countries. It is not a standalone licence — you must carry it alongside your original driving licence.

When Do You Need an IDP?

• If you’re driving outside your home country and your national licence is not recognised in the country you’re visiting.

• Some countries, even within the EU, may require IDPs for non-EU licence holders.

• Post-Brexit, UK drivers may need an IDP in certain EU countries, depending on the length and nature of their stay.

Types of IDPs

There are three types under the Geneva (1949), Vienna (1968), and Paris (1926) conventions. The one you need depends on the destination country. For example:

• 1949 IDP: Valid for 12 months (used in the USA and some Commonwealth countries).

• 1968 IDP: Valid for 3 years (used across most of Europe).

Where to Get It

• Usually issued by national motoring organisations (like the AA or RAC in the UK).

• You’ll need to show your licence, passport photo, and pay a small fee.

2. Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC)

What is the CPC?

The Driver CPC is a professional qualification required for drivers of lorries, buses, and coaches across the EU and the UK. It’s designed to ensure drivers remain safe and competent on the road.

Who Needs It?

• All professional drivers operating HGVs (Heavy Goods Vehicles) or PCVs (Passenger Carrying Vehicles) for hire or reward.

• Applies to both domestic and international routes.

  
  

Maintaining Your CPC

• Complete 35 hours of periodic training every five years.

• Ensure training is accredited and logged with the national transport authority.

  
  

Cross-Border CPC Considerations

• Your CPC qualification must be recognised in the countries you operate in.

• UK-issued CPCs are still valid in the EU, but with tighter scrutiny post-Brexit.

• Ensure your training provider is approved by both your home country and, ideally, recognised in your operating country.

3. Vehicle and Operator Requirements

Tachograph Rules

• Digital tachographs are mandatory across the EU for recording driving time, breaks, and rest periods.

• Drivers must understand and follow the EU Working Time Directive.

• Vehicles must be equipped with type-approved tachographs and drivers must carry their tachograph card.

Vehicle Documentation

Ensure the following documents are always carried:

• Vehicle registration certificate (V5C or equivalent)

• Insurance Green Card (may be required post-Brexit)

• MOT or roadworthiness certificate

• Goods Movement Reference (GMR) if operating from the UK to the EU

International Vehicle Licence Plates

• Display a valid international vehicle registration code (e.g. “UK” sticker for British vehicles in Europe).

• Comply with national laws on number plates and markings.

4. Cabotage and Posting Rules

What is Cabotage?

Cabotage is the transport of goods or passengers within a country by a foreign-registered vehicle. There are strict rules to limit these operations:

• EU Rules allow three cabotage operations within seven days after an international delivery.

• The UK allows limited cabotage but monitors foreign hauliers closely.

  
  

Posting of Drivers

Some EU countries enforce posting of worker rules, requiring foreign operators to:

• Register drivers with national portals (e.g. France’s SIPSI, Germany’s MiLoG).

• Pay local minimum wages and provide specific employment documentation.

Failure to follow these requirements can result in on-the-spot fines and vehicle detentions.

5. Customs and Border Requirements

ATA Carnets & TIR Systems

If transporting goods temporarily, use an ATA Carnet. For cross-border goods under customs control, the TIR (Transports Internationaux Routiers) system streamlines customs procedures.

UK-EU Customs (Post-Brexit)

• Export declarations, safety/security declarations, and GMRs are mandatory.

• Use the GVMS (Goods Vehicle Movement Service) to pre-clear customs.

Ensure drivers carry all customs documents, and know how to handle Border Force checks.

6. Local Road Laws and Requirements

Each country has its own rules regarding:

• Speed limits (which vary by vehicle type and weight)

• Low Emission Zones (e.g. Germany’s Umweltzone, London’s LEZ)

• Safety equipment (e.g. warning triangles, breathalysers in France, snow chains in Austria)

Drivers should always:

• Check country-specific requirements before travelling

• Carry an emergency kit (including hi-vis jackets, spare bulbs, and first-aid kits)

7. Insurance and Roadside Assistance

• Ensure comprehensive international insurance is in place.

• Obtain a Green Card for proof of coverage in foreign countries.

• Consider adding international breakdown cover, especially in remote or high-risk areas.

8. Language and Communication

While not a legal requirement, it’s advisable to:

• Carry a multilingual driver’s phrasebook or app

• Learn key transport terms in the local language

• Know how to communicate with border or road authorities

Final Thoughts: Plan, Prepare, and Stay Informed

Compliance with international transport laws is not just about avoiding fines — it’s about maintaining your company’s reputation, ensuring driver safety, and guaranteeing smooth operations.

Quick Checklist for Legal Operations Abroad

• Valid national and international driving licences

• Up-to-date CPC training and certification

• Vehicle documentation and roadworthiness

• Compliance with tachograph and working time rules

• Knowledge of cabotage limits and local wage laws

• Customs documentation and procedures (GMR, ATA, etc.)

• Country-specific equipment and road rules

• Adequate insurance and breakdown cover

Bonus Tip: Always stay up to date via official government websites, transport associations, and legal advisors, especially as regulations can change frequently.

Need help ensuring your fleet is compliant across borders? Contact us for personalised advice, CPC training resources, and cross-border operations support.