Driving Information

This information is split into 5 sections, firstly about driving in snow, followed by a general section about Europe, one about France, one about Spain, and finally one about Andorra. This information should be used as a guide, and can change. If you are driving, it is your responsibility to know the laws of the country you are driving in.

Driving in Snow

When driving to Andorra it is very important to consider that you will be driving high up into the mountains, and hopefully there will be loads of snow! It is highly recommended that your car has snow tyres, but also that you carry snow chains. If you are renting a car from the airport, try to book these both in advance.

If there is lots of snow around, you will also find it very useful to have a shovel in your car so that you dig yourself out. I currently have a Kinohi snow shovel that has been extremely useful to have around, plus it screws in half so it's easy to store. Have a look at Origin Sports if you're thinking of getting one.

You can be stopped by the police and not allowed to continue if the weather is bad and you do not have snow tyres or snow chains so it is best to be prepared. The weather can change very quickly, and access to Andorra from France is up a very steep windy road so if the weather is bad you will most probably need chains!

Europe

Driving on the Right Throughout mainland Europe, you drive on the right.
GB Sticker When driving in Europe with a British car, you must either have a special GB number plate, or else attach a GB sticker or magnet to the rear of your car. Be careful when choosing your GB sticker as some are just for decoration purposes and do not make your vehicle legal! Also note that English, Welsh, Scottish or Northern Irish stickers are not valid, it must be GB!
Headlights You must adjust the beam of your UK headlights so that they do not dazzle oncoming traffic. You can do this easily with special stickers available from lots of garages or most channel ferries sell them on board.
What To Carry In your vehicle you should carry . . .

• A fluorescent vest for each passenger
• Spare headlight bulbs
• A warning triangle

Signals You should be aware that throughout Europe there are many different signals in use both on road signs and by other drivers for example someone flashing their lights often means that they are coming, not letting you go!
Alcohol Alcohol limits for driving are so low in most European countries that you should never drink alcohol and drive.
Mobile Telephones Using mobile telephones whilst driving in European countries is illegal.
Fines If you are stopped by the Police in most European countries having been found breaking the law, most fines are "on-the-spot" and can be very hefty.

France

Speed Limits (Unless otherwise signposted)

For more information please click here.

Spain

Speed Limits (Unless otherwise signposted)

For more information please click here.

Andorra

There are customs checkpoints at both the French and the Spanish borders. At the French side you should slow down, and stop if indicated, both on the way in and out of Andorra. The same applies to entering from Spain, however on the way back in to Spain it is compulsory to stop and open your boot. If stopped you will usually be asked if you have any alcohol or tobacco, so make sure you know the limits.

In Andorra there are no motorways, and the speed limits vary up to 90km/h, and are usually well signposted. You should also keep your eye out for signs indicating parking restrictions as if you are caught parking illegally you can be given an on-the-spot fine!