If you're leasing a vehicle under a Personal Contract Hire (PCH) agreement, it is possible to drive your lease car in Europe. However, you’ll need the correct documentation and written permission from your finance provider.
This guide outlines what’s required, how to prepare, and what to expect when taking your lease vehicle abroad.
Yes — most finance providers allow lease vehicles to be taken abroad, provided you request written authorisation in advance and travel with the correct documents.
The key requirement is a VE103 certificate, which acts as proof that you’re authorised to use the vehicle overseas (as you don’t hold the V5C logbook).
To do this, you will have to complete one of the forms available on the links below. Just choose either Audi or Volkswagen and complete the VE103 request form on the relevant website:
Acts as a substitute for the V5C logbook
Proves you have permission to take the vehicle abroad
Must be requested from your finance provider
Usually valid for up to 12 months
It’s recommended to apply at least two weeks before your travel date.
Full UK driving licence
International Driving Permit (IDP) if required in your destination country
Travel insurance that covers vehicle hire (check with your provider)
Before travelling, ensure you have:
Fully comprehensive European insurance
Breakdown and recovery cover valid in all countries you plan to visit
Cover for repatriation of the vehicle if it breaks down and cannot be fixed abroad
If you're unsure, check your existing policy or speak to your insurer to confirm you're covered.
Following Brexit, several travel rules have changed. You may now need:
A UK identifier on your number plate (or a UK sticker if your plates do not display one)
Safety equipment such as:
Warning triangle
High-visibility jackets
First-aid kit
Headlamp beam deflectors
Spare bulb kit
Some countries also require emissions stickers or vignettes for low-emission zones and motorways. Check the local driving rules of each country on your route.
| Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|
| VE103 certificate | Request from your funder at least 14 days in advance |
| Full UK driving licence | Valid photocard licence required |
| IDP (if needed) | Required for some EU countries and longer stays |
| Insurance confirmation | Ensure European cover and breakdown assistance |
| Safety equipment | Triangle, hi-vis vests, bulb kit, first aid, etc. |
| UK sticker or plate | Mandatory if your registration plate doesn’t show ‘UK’ |
Frequently Asked Questions
If you're planning to drive your lease car abroad, we can help you:
Request the correct paperwork from your funder
Review your mileage and lease terms
Ensure you're fully covered for international driving
Contact us today before you travel: