Even though most people know they’ll need to drive on the right in Europe, there are still a few things that might surprise you. Driving on the continent is quite different from driving in the UK, so take a moment to review the tips below to ensure a smooth experience.

Especially in the beginning, it’s challenging to drive on the right against your intuition. This is because you’re also focusing on navigation, different speeds, and unfamiliar traffic signs. As you develop a sense of calm in those areas, it becomes easier to remember to stay on the right, and you’ll find that you adjust fairly quickly. 

Starting your journey from the port of Calais is simple and easy to navigate. Getting onto the motorway is hassle-free. That said, here are a few helpful tips for you:

  1. Use Google Maps to preview the route
    Take a quick look at the road layout after disembarking from the ferry to familiarize yourself with your first steps on the journey.

  2. Rely on your passenger for reminders
    A passenger can help keep you alert and remind you to stay on the correct side of the road, making the transition smoother.

  3. Follow local traffic for guidance
    Driving behind a car from a country where people drive on the right can make things easier. Just follow the flow of traffic to stay on track.

  4. Familiarize yourself with speed limits and conversions
    Make sure you understand the local speed limits, which may differ significantly from what you’re used to. 

  • 10 km/h ≈ 6 mph
  • 30 km/h ≈ 19 mph
  • 50 km/h ≈ 31 mph
  • 60 km/h ≈ 37 mph
  • 80 km/h ≈ 50 mph
  • 90 km/h ≈ 56 mph
  • 100 km/h ≈ 62 mph
  • 120 km/h ≈ 75 mph
  • 130 km/h ≈ 81 mph

Speed Limits EU: calculate from KPH to MPH

You’re likely aware that mainland Europe uses kilometres per hour (KPH) instead of miles per hour (MPH). Knowing the conversion (1 mile ≈ 1.6 kilometers) can help you quickly estimate your speed. However, this can still be confusing, especially when you encounter frequent speed limit changes on shorter stretches of road.

To avoid unnecessary calculations while adjusting to driving on the right, consider purchasing stickers to help you quickly convert KPH to MPH. These are often available on ferries or terminals (see image above).

Travel requirements for driving in the EU

When travelling by car through the EU, certain safety and compliance requirements are essential for a smooth journey and to avoid fines:

  • Mandatory UK Sticker: Vehicles registered in the United Kingdom must display a UK sticker on the car's rear. This replaces the old GB sticker and is required even if your license plate includes a UK marking. Ensure the sticker is visible to comply with international traffic regulations and avoid penalties in some EU countries.

  • Warning Triangle: In case of a breakdown or accident, you must place a warning triangle at least 30 meters behind your vehicle to alert other road users. This safety measure is compulsory across most EU countries.

  • Reflective Safety Vest: The driver is required to wear a reflective safety vest during a roadside emergency. 

    Several products ar available at the ferry stores, but it might be handy to buy these in advance. Amazon.co.uk has a selection of European Driving Kits

    Regulations vary across Europe from country to country and can change over time. Therefore, it’s essential to research the traffic rules for the country you are travelling to. For instance, new legislation in Spain will come into effect in 2026, requiring motorists to use an orange V-16 warning light in case of a breakdown.

Headlights: adjust for continental roads

One thing many UK drivers overlook is that the headlights on British vehicles are designed to illuminate road signs on the left-hand side. On European roads, where you drive on the right, these beams can dazzle oncoming traffic.

While the EU doesn’t require UK drivers to adjust their headlights, dazzling other road users is illegal (and dangerous). It’s recommended to adjust your beams manually or use headlamp converters, which are available on the ferry. In modern cars, this can often be adjusted directly in the vehicle's settings.

Environmental Zones

Several European cities, including many in France, Germany, Netherlands, and Italy, have environmental zones. These “Low Emission Zones” (LEZ) or “Ultra-Low Emission Zones” (ULEZ) often require vehicles to meet specific emissions standards.

Before entering such zones, checking if your vehicle is compliant and whether you need to register in advance is crucial. For example, cities like Paris, Milan, and Berlin have strict requirements, with heavy fines for non-compliance (London has similar zones, including the ULEZ and the Congestion Charge Zone). 

For more detailed information about low-emission zones in the EU:

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The ultimate traveler's guide from Calais to Dover, the shortest distance you can travel from France to England by ferry or train.

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