Here is a list of special situations and driving rules to keep in mind while driving across Europe.

IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS

Always drive with the following documents.

• U.S.-military-issued overseas driver’s license

• Valid U.S. driver’s license

• Original vehicle registration document

• Proof of insurance

When crossing borders, include the following. Without them, you may be fined, turned around at the border or have your car impounded for illegal border crossing.

• Passports

• International Driving Permit (where required)

ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE

It can be beneficial to join a local autombile association for their 24-hour roadside assistance and travel-related services. These are simlar to AAA in the U.S.

Belgium - TCB

Germany - ADAC

Italy - ACI

Netherlands - ANWB

Spain - RACE

United Kingdom - AA

SPEED CAMERAS

Cameras are used to detect driving offenses. They can be permanent or temporary. You may not see the camera or a flash.

If your vehicle is caught speeding, running red lights or tailgaiting, a ticket will be mailed to you or your chain of command. It will have the date of the offense and a photo. You are required to pay the ticket and you may have points assessed on your license.

SEATBELTS

All countries require seatbelts for all vehicle occupants.

METRIC SYSTEM

• Continental Europe posts speed limits in km/h.

• The U.K. posts speed limits in mph.

• Fuel prices are per liter.

• Tire pressure is sometimes

GPS

It is helpful to be familiar with using GPS or mapping softwarelike Google Maps for navigation in Europe. However, construction and small roads sometimes confuse the systems. Check the route ahead of time to ensure it makes sense.

RADAR DETECTORS

Most of Europe prohibits the use of radar detectors. Many countries have also banned the use of speed camera detection using GPS or phone apps.

CELL PHONES

It is illegal to use hand-held devices while driving in Europe.

EMERGENCY KIT

Most European countries require your vehicle to have a warning triangle, reflective vest and first-aid kit with medical masks. These are typically sold together as a single standard emergency kit.

Additionally, some countries require multiple vests, a fire extinguisher or tow rope.

INTERNATIONAL DRIVING PERMIT (IDP)

• An IDP is a translation of your license that is accepted worldwide.

• It is highly recommended when driving outside the country where you are stationed.

• An IDP is supplemental. You still need to carry your stateside and overseas military-issued license.

• The IDP is not accepted in the U.S. or in the European country where you are stationed.

• Visit www.aaa.com/vacation/idpf.html to get an IDP.

INSURANCE

Most countries require third-party liability coverage, which covers you if you injure someone or damage their property or vehicle.

First-party insurance is usually optional and covers you if you are injured while driving, as well as damage or theft of your vehicle.

Check local laws for each country you plan to visit, and talk to your insurance provider about time and distance limitations for coverage beyond the country where your vehicle is registered. Also ask about rental car coverage and requirements for trailers.

HIGHWAY RULES

• If traffic comes to an abrupt stop, activate your hazard lights to alert vehicles behind you.

• Keep a safe distance from the car in front of you of roughly half your speed in meters. At 100 km/h stay 50m back.

• The left lane is for passing only. Be sure to signal before and after passing. This law is taken seriously in Europe.

• Do not stop on the highway. If you have car trouble, use designated pull outs.

REST STOP TOILETS

Expect to pay with coins to use toilets at rest stops. They can be 50 cents to two euros. Some are paid via a vending machine at a turnstyle. Others may simply have a tip plate for the custodian.

FUEL

Running out of fuel on highways is not allowed in Europe, and you can be fined. Note that some gas stations are not open 24/7.

TOLLS

Many highways or tunnels are maintained by toll payments. Cameras monitor for violators, and steep fines can be imposed.

Most tolls are charged at booths when you enter or exit the tolled roadway. A few placed have barrier-free tolls which require payment online before or after the trip. Visit tolls.eu for specific country toll information.

VIGNETTES

Some countries require avignette to drive on certain roadways. These are pre-paid road tax stickers. They are typically available at the border and nearby gas stations. In some countries they can be purchased ahead of time online as an e-vignette.

Countries with vignettes:

• Austria

• Bulgaria

• Czechia

• Estonia (over 3.5t)

• Hungary

• Moldova

• Romania

• Slovakia

• Slovenia

• Switzerland

BORDER CROSSING

Have all passports and any SOFA documentation available for the driver to present at any border. Some borders have random checks while others inspect every passport. Country speed limits are posted on large signs at the border.

CITY REGULATIONS

Major cities regulate road usage to limit noise, emissions and traffic. Control methods include time-of-day restrictions, congestion charges and limited access for cars without lowemission stickers. Find details at www.urbanaccessregulations.eu.

HORNS

Using horns in urban areas is often prohibited, except to indicate danger.

RIGHT OF WAY

Generally, vehicles coming from the right have right of way. Specific signs will indicate otherwise.

PARKING

Use parking discs in lots with this sign; the number will indicate the parking time limit. Set the dial to the time you arrive and make sure it is visible in the windshield.

Paid parking will be labeled. Be sure to read the signs for regulations.

There may be individual meters, or a machine to pay for parking in the area. Be sure to display your paid parking receipt in your windshield. In cities, follow these signs to paid parking garages. Take your ticket with you and pay at the kiosk before returning to your car.

PEDESTRIANS

Pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks and in many residential areas. In some countries, it is accepted for people to cross the street anywhere.

ROUNDABOUTS

Vehicles within a roundabouts have the right of way, regardless of whether merging traffic has yield signs.

RIGHT ON RED

Unless otherwise indicated, turning right on red (left in the U.K., Ireland and Malta) is not permitted.

FINES

In some countries, minor driving offense fines may be requested to be paid in cash on-the-spot. Be sure to get documentation and a reciept. If you are unable to pay, you may face higher fees and possibly a court appearance.

TUNNELS

Europe has many long tunnels, particularly in mountainous regions and Scandinavian countries.

• Remove sunglasses.

• Use headlights.

• Follow speed limits.

• Do not pass on two-lane roads.

• Increase the distance between you and the next vehicle.

• Note the emergency exits.

• Turn of your engine in standstill traffic.

DAMAGED VEHICLES

Certain countries require documentation for visible damage on your car. If you are driving a vehicle with dents or flaws, get it documented when you enter a new country. If your car sustains damage while traveling, file a police report to document the occurance. This will ensure you are not accused of hit-and-run or vandalism crimes.

HEADLIGHTS

Headlights must be used from sunset to sunrise and when visibility is poor. In some countries, headlights must be on all the time. High beams (or “brights”) and fog lights should only be used when conditions warrant and when there is no oncoming traffic.

DRUNK DRIVING

Driving while intoxicated is a serious offense. Police can demand on-the-spot saliva tests. See country-specific regulations for tolerances.

RAILROAD CROSSINGS

Do not enter a railroad crossing when lights are on or barriers are down. There may also be unguarded crossings on small roads, so approach tracks with caution.

Road Guide