The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is urging people who are going abroad this Easter to make some important checks ahead of setting off, or risk being hit with fines.
The FCDO regularly issues updates about any of some 226 overseas nations and territories and its latest advice pertains specifically to those who are driving to their destination or who plan on driving once they have arrived. In a new post on X, formerly Twitter, FCDO said on Monday: “Got a road trip planned this Easter?
“Check the local rules – some countries require breathalysers, spare glasses, or vignettes for toll roads. Fines aren’t a fun souvenir. Remember, check Gov UK before you go”.
For example: “You may need to display a white oval UK sticker on the rear of your vehicle when driving outside the UK. This depends on your number plate and where you are going. You must display a UK sticker to drive in Spain, Cyprus and Malta, no matter what’s on your number plate.”
And if your car has an old GB sticker, you’ll need to replace it with a UK one – or risk a fine. You may also need to purchase a vignette when driving on toll roads in certain countries, such as Bulgaria, Austria, Hungary, Romania and Czech Republic.
These can usually be bought online, but sometimes also at border crossings and petrol stations. And in France, Spain and Switzerland, glasses-wearers must have a second pair with them at all times while driving.
To find out more and make sure you’re up to date with all the rules, search for your destination country on the Foreign Office website here