Continental Vehicle Hire

Planning to hire a vehicle and drive abroad? This isn't your standard hire, so please contact us for a quote as additional charges apply for European travel.

What’s Included with Your European Hire

• Comprehensive European insurance cover
• VE103 Vehicle on Hire Certificate
• Green Card (international insurance proof)
• European breakdown cover
• Basic continental safety kit (as per EU requirements)

Driver Requirements for Continental Hire

To hire a vehicle for use in Europe, the following criteria typically apply:

• Age limits:
  • Cars & vans: 25–75
  • People carriers, minibuses & 7.5t vehicles: 30–70
• Minimum 5 years driving experience
• Full UK driving licence (endorsements may be considered)
• £1000 security deposit (reducible to £500 with Excess Reduction Waiver)

Certain larger vehicles (including minibuses over 9 seats and 7.5 tonne vans) require a digital tachograph card, which must be applied for at least 4 weeks in advance.

Legal Requirements When Driving Abroad

Driving a hire vehicle in Europe comes with strict legal responsibilities. It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure full compliance with the laws of every country visited.

We Provide:

• All required vehicle documentation for European travel
• A basic continental safety kit

You Must Ensure:

• You hold the correct licence entitlement for your vehicle
• Compliance with tachograph regulations where applicable
• Awareness of country-specific driving laws, including:
  • Speed limits and road rules
  • Mandatory safety equipment
  • Toll systems and permits

Important Travel Considerations

Ireland:
The Republic of Ireland operates under separate regulations to the UK – ensure you understand local requirements before travel.

Low Emission Zones (e.g. France):
Many cities require emissions permits such as the CRIT’Air vignette. We can arrange this for you with a minimum of 4 weeks’ notice.

Your Responsibility

Failure to meet legal requirements when driving abroad can result in fines, penalties, or vehicle impoundment. These remain the sole responsibility of the driver.

We strongly recommend checking all travel requirements in advance.

Get a Quote for Continental Hire

Tell us where you’re going, your travel dates, and the countries you’ll be driving through, and we’ll provide a clear, competitive quote.

Use our enquiry form or contact the team today.