DRIVING ABROAD - KNOW THE LAW

Thinking of driving abroad? Check out a few of the local regulations first. Steve Walker is your guide

If you're planning a holiday or business trip outside of the UK, there's a good chance you're also planning on driving a car while you're away. The temptation is to go right ahead and do it but remember, whether in your own car or one you've hired, you'll need to obey the laws of the land you're in at the time. Actually establishing what those laws are can be tricky, so here's your handy guide to the relevant motoring law in some of the most commonly visited countries.

Thousands of UK citizens travel to France, Spain, Germany, Italy or the USA every year and many of us just assume that their way of doing things is basically the same as ours. In some respects it is, but there are important differences that could see motorists falling foul of the law and don't assume that because you're familiar with driving abroad in one country, you can handle them all. The rules differ in small but potentially crucial ways, so it always makes sense to check them out.

The legal driving age

In the UK we can drive cars at 17 but for France, Spain, Germany, Italy and many other countries across Europe, you need to be 18. In the USA most states allow drivers behind the wheel at 16 but the minimum limit is 18 in others.

More of a minefield presents itself if you're planning on hiring a car. In Spain, Germany and Italy there's the same 18 minimum age but in France you have to be either 20 or 21 depending on the type of car you're trying to hire. You'll also need to have held a full licence for a year.

In America, there's more potential hire hazards for the young and old. Many agencies won't entertain anyone under 25. Some will ...