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Which countries require a Green Card for my car?

The answer depends on the vehicle's country of registration and destination; check the current Green Card system and your insurer's proof requirements.

A Green Card is international evidence of motor third-party liability insurance, but it is not required for every destination. The applicable rule depends on the vehicle's registration country and the countries on the route. Check the current Green Card system, the certificate's covered-country list and your insurer's instructions before departure.

The certificate and its country list matter

ACI describes the Green Card as an international certificate of compulsory motor liability cover. Its certificate identifies countries where the policy is valid; codes crossed out are not covered under that certificate. ACI says it is not needed for travel within the EU and for several countries participating in arrangements that recognise the registration plate as proof of insurance. Do not rely on an old list: coverage and system participation can change.

Check the actual certificate supplied by your insurer, including its validity dates and the country codes. If a country is excluded, contact the insurer before travel to ask whether you can obtain cover or another accepted proof. Also confirm that the policy covers the vehicle, driver and intended use; the Green Card does not replace the insurance contract or guarantee optional cover.

Carry acceptable proof for each border

Requirements can differ depending on where the vehicle is registered. For an Italian-registered car, ask the insurer whether the electronic or paper certificate is accepted on the route and whether the original is needed. Check every transit country, not only the final destination, and verify any special border insurance or local registration requirement from an official source.

Keep the insurer's contact details and assistance information with the vehicle documents. If travelling in a rented or borrowed car, confirm that its policy and cross-border authorisation cover the driver and route. Quiz Patente Ufficiale offers study and quizzes on Italian road-theory topics and vehicle categories.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Green Card required throughout the EU?

ACI says it is not needed for EU travel, but check current proof-of-insurance rules and your insurer's documents.

Does a Green Card cover every country printed on the form?

Check the actual country codes and exclusions on the certificate and its dates; crossed-out codes indicate no cover there.

Sources and further reading