If the car is going abroad for the summer holidays, it's not just the car's condition that matters. Many countries have their own rules for equipment, low-emission zones, and toll roads, and they can be hard to keep track of if you haven't looked them up recently.
The rules also change from time to time, so it's always a good idea to check the current requirements yourself for the countries you'll be driving through, before you set off. Here's an overview of the topics worth looking at.
1. Mandatory safety equipment varies from country to country
In Denmark, a warning triangle and first-aid kit aren't legal requirements, but in several other European countries the equipment is mandatory.
It's worth having in the car, among other things:
- A warning triangle — some countries, like Spain, require two.
- A hi-vis vest for each passenger — often required to be worn if you leave the car on a motorway.
- An extra set of bulbs or light sources, if the car has conventional lights.
- A first-aid kit and fire extinguisher, which certain countries require in the car.
If you're stopped without the required equipment, you risk an on-the-spot fine, even if no accident has happened.
2. Low-emission zones may require a visible sticker in the windscreen
Several major European cities have low-emission zones, where only cars with a certain sticker or emission class may enter. This applies to parts of Germany, France, and Italy, among others.
In practice, that can mean:
- You need to order and pay for an environmental sticker before driving into the zone.
- Older diesel cars may in some cases be excluded entirely from the city center.
- The rules are often city-specific rather than nationwide, so it's necessary to check the individual city.
If you're driving through several countries, it can be a good idea to look up low-emission zones for the whole route before you set off, so you're not caught by surprise along the way.
3. Toll stickers and toll roads vary a lot
Many countries charge for using motorways, but the systems differ. Some countries use a toll sticker you buy in advance, while others charge per kilometer at toll booths.
This is relevant, among other places, when driving in:
- Austria and Switzerland, where a toll sticker is typically required.
- France, Italy, and Spain, where payment often happens at toll booths on the motorway.
Remember to have cash or a card for toll roads, and consider whether the car's electronic toll tag (if it has one) covers the country you're driving in.
4. Insurance and documentation should be in order
Within the EU and EEA, a green insurance card isn't a requirement as a starting point, but it can still make things easier if you're stopped or need to show documentation. Check with your insurance company what they recommend for your specific route.
It's also worth having in order:
- Registration certificate and driving license.
- Whether your car insurance covers you fully in the countries you'll visit.
- Whether you have roadside assistance or insurance that covers transport home in case of a breakdown.
5. Speed limits and fines are handled differently
Speed limits, road rules, and fine practices aren't the same across Europe. In some countries, fines for speeding or other offenses must be paid on the spot, while other countries send the fine home to Denmark afterward via cross-border cooperation.
A good starting point is to:
- Check the speed limits for the country you're driving in, rather than assuming Danish rules.
- Be aware that some countries have lower blood alcohol limits than Denmark.
- Watch for signage around roadworks and temporary speed restrictions.
When should the car be checked before you cross the border?
Beyond rules and equipment, it's still important that the car itself is in good condition for a long drive. That's especially true if the car is older, has high mileage, or if you've already noticed something unusual.
A pre-departure check can especially make sense if:
- The car is a diesel that needs to go through low-emission zones, and you want to know if the particulate filter is in order.
- The car uses AdBlue, and you want to make sure the level lasts the whole trip.
- You've already seen a warning light or noticed unusual sounds, vibrations, or power loss.
- The car needs to drive far with a full load and maybe a roof box.
Fault-finding can give a clear answer on whether the car is ready for a longer trip abroad, or whether something should be checked first.
Get the car checked at MH Autoteknik before the trip
Taking the car on a long drive across the border? We're happy to help with a thorough check of condition, fluids, and the exhaust system, so you have a better starting point for the trip.
At MH Autoteknik Aps in Rødovre we can help with service, fault-finding, and a general review of the car before you drive abroad.
Contact us today if you want the car checked before you set off.