What does the green card mean for your car?
When you take out auto insurance, your insurance company will provide you with a green card. This green card serves as proof that your car is insured. The green card lists the name of the insurance company and the coverage you’ve purchased. Every year, the insurer will send you a new green card.
What does the green card look like?
The Green Card is an international insurance certificate that proves your car is insured. The advantage of the Green Card is that it has the same format throughout Europe, making it easy for authorities—such as the police—to read even when you’re abroad. The Green Card can come in the form of a document or a card.
Does the Green Card always have to be green? Read more here.
What does the green card say?
The Green Card contains various pieces of information. An important detail is the Green Card number. You’ll need this number if you’re involved in an accident. You must enter the Green Card number on the accident report form. In addition, the insurer specifies on the Green Card the countries in which the auto insurance provides coverage. Furthermore, the Green Card specifies the period of coverage and the vehicle to which the coverage applies. The insurer usually also lists on the Green Card the agencies the insured can contact in the event of a breakdown, accident, broken window, or theft, both domestically and abroad. Although the Green Card is not mandatory, it is still very useful because it provides all insurance details in a concise and clear manner.
Do you have to keep the green card in your car?
It’s a good idea to always carry your Green Card with you, but it’s not recommended to keep it in your car, for example. Keep the Green Card with your driver’s license, for instance. That way, you’ll always have it with you when you’re out driving. If you’ve lost your Green Card or your car has been stolen with the Green Card still inside, you can request a new one online for free.
How long is the green card valid?
There is sometimes some confusion about how long the green card is valid. In principle, the card is valid for one year. The expiration date is listed on the green card. Usually, it shows a validity period of 13 months instead of 12 months. Every year, when you renew your insurance, the insurer will automatically send you a new green card. Since the renewal date might coincide with your vacation, the validity period has been extended by one month. This prevents you from being abroad with an invalid green card.
In which countries am I covered by my Green Card?
The countries in which you are insured are also listed on your Green Card. So when you travel abroad, your car is insured in the countries listed on your Green Card. Always check this before you leave, as coverage may vary by insurer.
Is it mandatory to have a green card in the car?
These days, it is not required by law to carry your green card with you, except for unregistered vehicles such as tractors. However, it is advisable to always carry your car’s green card with you. In case of an emergency or breakdown, you’ll always have your insurance information and important phone numbers on hand.
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