MOTORING

A reliable car is an important asset whilst serving in Portugal, particularly if you want to see something of the country. However, Portuguese roads are far from the best in Europe and the standard of driving/accident rate is high. Defensive driving is very much the order of the day. In addition wear and tear on vehicles, due to poor standards of road construction and maintenance can be higher than in the UK and servicing costs and parts are higher too in Portugal. Thus bringing a brand new car to Portugal at the beginning of your tour is not recommended. It is preferable to bring an older car that you can try and sell when you leave and to go home before the end of your tour to purchase a tax free car. Alternatively, you can purchase a vehicle (free from Portuguese tax) from within the local NATO community - there are normally a few second hand left and right hand drive cars available. 

REGISTRATION

Your vehicle will need to be registered with the Portuguese Authosity, via NATO HQ. This will be facilitated on arrival by the UK Administrative Assistant (UKAA). Further advice can be obtained from your sponsor or the UKAA on 00351 21440 8639.

DRIVING IN EUROPE

If driving out with your own vehicle, to comply with Spanish and Portuguese legislation (and French if coming via the channel), don't forget the following items:

Headlamp converters

Warning triangle (2 now required for Spain)

First Aid Kit

Flourescent jacket

Plastic/rubber hand gloves

Spare car lamps for lights

Green card or other form of confirmation of insurance cover for overseas (don't forget the need for a Bail Bond in Spain if your policy does not mention this specifically).

If you wear glasses, carry a spare set (Spain).

Also advisable are: water (especially in the summer - both for the radiator and travellers), good maps, a spare litre of engine oil, fuel can with petrol, a torch, phrase book and adequate foreign currency (especially for the expensive motor way tolls).

VEHICLE INSURANCE

If you are able to obtain a notification of 'no claims' from your insurance company, bring it with you, as this will assist when purchasing car insurance in Portugal.  The UK Support Unit and the HIVE hold details of some insurance companies for insuring your vehicle locally.  Some UK insurance providers will also agree to honour your 'no claims' upon your return to the UK.  They may request the original 'no claims" certificate to be returned to them for their records, so remember to retain a copy for your own records.  In the long run, this could save you a substantial amount upon your return to the UK.

DUTY FREE FUEL

When your car has been registered with NATO, you will be able to apply for a GALP fuel card, which will entitle you to Duty Free fuel. The process for this will be explained on arrival.