Do I need a green card car insurance for driving in Spain?

Travelling through Spain by road is a unique experience that allows you to discover the country at your own pace and without limits. From hidden beaches to small villages that look like something out of a fairytale, every kilometer has something special to offer. Driving gives you the freedom to stop wherever you want: a viewpoint with spectacular views, a winery in La Rioja, or that roadside restaurant with homemade food that doesn't appear in the guidebooks. The roads are in very good condition and connect places as diverse as the mountains of the Pyrenees, the golden fields of Castile and the coasts of Andalusia. What's more, each region has its own charm, gastronomy and history, so there's always something new to discover.

But... do you know what papers you need to drive your car in Spain? Don't worry, you'll find all the information you need here.

The first thing you need to understand is the green card car insurance, also known as the International Motor Insurance Certificate. This official document acts as proof that your vehicle is covered by valid liability insurance when you travel outside your home country. It’s an essential piece of paperwork designed to ensure that drivers comply with the legal requirements for motor insurance across borders.

The green card car insurance system was established to simplify mobility between countries, removing the stress of dealing with varying insurance regulations in different regions. It provides reassurance that you are protected in case of a road accident while driving abroad. This certificate is recognized in more than 40 countries, including most of Europe and parts of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, making it a vital document for international travel by car.

Not only does the Green Card confirm that your insurance meets the minimum liability coverage required by the country you’re visiting, but it also ensures that other drivers and pedestrians are protected in the unfortunate event of an accident. It was specifically designed to promote road safety and to create a seamless driving experience for travelers who want to explore the world without worrying about insurance compliance.

If you plan to drive in a foreign country, it’s important to check whether you’ll need a Green Card and ensure that your insurance company provides one. Having this document on hand can save you from potential fines, complications, or delays at border crossings, giving you the peace of mind to fully enjoy your journey.

Are you clear so far? Now that you know what the green card car insurance is, let's go over everything you need to check before you get behind the wheel on Spanish roads:

Insurance cover:

• If you come from an EU/EEA country, make sure your car insurance includes cover for driving abroad. Most policies provide the necessary liability cover for travel within the EU.
• If you come from a country outside the EU/EEA, you will probably need a Green Card to prove you have valid insurance.
  
  

Documents required:

• Vehicle registration certificate.
• Your valid driving licence.
• Proof of insurance (Green Card if applicable or other evidence of insurance).

Border control:

Although the green card car insurance may not be legally compulsory for EU drivers, carrying one is still a good idea to facilitate transit at borders.

As you can see, the issue of insurance is crucial. Car Insurance Spain | Caser Expat Insurance generally includes cover for driving in Spain and other European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries. Most Caser policies are designed to meet the legal requirements for civil liability in both Spain and EU countries.

International cover:

• Confirm that your insurance policy includes civil liability cover for driving in other EU countries.
• Most insurance policies in Spain, including Caser, already comply with this regulation by default.

Travel assistance:

• Check if your policy includes roadside assistance in case of breakdowns or emergencies while travelling in Spain or abroad. This is especially useful if you plan to leave the country.

Necessary documentation:

• Make sure you have with you:
• The insurance receipt or certificate.
• The vehicle's registration certificate.
• Your valid driving licence.
  
  

Green Card (if you are travelling outside the EU):

• If you plan to travel to a country outside the European Union, you may need to apply for a Green Card (International Insurance Certificate). This document should be requested directly from Caser and is normally issued without any problems.
  
  

If you are not yet a Caser member, there’s no better time to reach out. Don’t hesitate to contact us, as our friendly and knowledgeable team is here to answer all your questions and guide you through the process. We understand that navigating insurance in a new country can be overwhelming, but rest assured, we’ve got you covered. What’s more, we speak your language, so you can communicate with us comfortably and with complete confidence.

Take the first step towards peace of mind by clicking here to get a personalized quote. It’s quick, easy, and takes less than a minute! Best of all, there’s no obligation—just clarity and convenience. Whether you’re looking for health, home, or car insurance, we’re ready to help you find the solution that best fits your needs. Let us show you how simple it is to make Caser your trusted insurance partner.

We hope we have helped you solve all your doubts and that you now feel ready to embark on this exciting adventure. It's time to start planning your trip: pack your suitcase with everything you need, check your car to make sure it's in perfect condition and don't forget to make sure you have all your papers in order, from your insurance to any documents you may need along the way. Spain is full of wonderful places waiting to be discovered, and travelling by road is one of the best ways to experience the diversity of this country. From charming villages to breathtaking landscapes, there's so much to see and enjoy that we're sure this experience will be unforgettable. Enjoy every kilometre, every stop, every little detail that makes each place unique. And if at any moment any unforeseen event or problem arises, don't worry: we will be at your side to help you solve it. We want your only job is to enjoy the journey and let yourself be surprised by all that Spain has to offer. So... go ahead! Buckle up, fasten your seatbelt and get ready for a road adventure you'll remember forever. Bon voyage!