Turkey holidays: Major rules for tourists hoping to drive abroad – Foreign Office warning
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After seven months on the red list, Turkey has finally turned amber meaning double jabbed Britons can holiday in the country without having to quarantine on their return to the UK. However, for those looking to hire a car, there are some vital steps they must take before getting behind the wheel.
In a new update to its travel advice pages, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has warned Britons to ensure they have the right paperwork to drive in Turkey.
While many nations are happy to accept an international photographic driving license, in Turkey, there are some more specific requirements.
“If you drive in Turkey, you must have either an International Driving Permit or a notarised copy (in Turkish) of your UK driving licence,” explains the FCDO.
An IDP is an internationally recognised form of driving documentation.
Turkey required what is known as a “1949 Convention IDP”.
This should be presented to authorities alongside your UK driving license.
An IDP usually costs around £5.50, and can only be issued to those aged 18 or over with a full driving license.
While an IDP serves as evidence that you possess a driving license in your own country, on its own, it is not a legally recognised document giving drivers the right to be on the road.
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This means holidaymakers should always carry their UK driving license with them too.
Those who do not wish to apply for the IDP can use a notarised form of their driving license.
This needs to be conducted by a public notary and must be translated into Turkish.
“Provisional driving licences aren’t recognised,” adds the FCDO.
“A green card is proof that you have vehicle insurance when driving abroad.
“You need to carry a green card to drive in Turkey.”
The green card requirement is specifically for those who choose to transport their own vehicle to Turkey.
“A green card is proof that you have vehicle insurance when driving abroad,” explains the UK Government website.
“Contact your insurer to get one for your vehicle.
“They’ll either post you a green card [but] allow up to six weeks or tell you how to download a green card to print yourself.”
Hire cars will come with insurance, though it is best practice to purchase car hire excess insurance to protect against unexpected costs.
Many holidaymakers have chosen to side-step public transport in favour for a hire car in order to aid social distancing.
They also provide the perfect opportunity to explore further afield while on holiday.
However, the FCDO warns those who do choose this option should be sure to understand and follow the Turkish rules of the road.
“Take care when travelling by road throughout Turkey, particularly at night,” it advises.
“Approach checkpoints slowly and follow the instructions of security personnel.
“Roads between the major cities are generally in excellent condition but can be poor in remote, rural areas.
“Accidents are common and mainly due to poor or reckless driving.”
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