Everything UK drivers need to know about the Carnet de Passages en Douane in 2026 — when it is required, how to apply via the RAC, costs and country list.
No. UK vehicles entering EU countries use the visitor temporary admission system, which is automatic and free at the border (provided your visit is under 6 months and you remain a UK resident). Carnets are only needed for countries listed above — primarily Africa, Middle East, Central Asia, Australia and parts of South America.
Egypt requires the highest deposit of any country — typically 800% of the vehicle's value. For a £25,000 4x4 this means £200,000 of deposit or bank guarantee. Most overland drivers use a bank guarantee or specialist insurance bond rather than tying up cash.
Standard UK Carnets are valid for 12 months from date of issue, with a single 6-month extension possible by application to the RAC before the original expiry. The vehicle must be exported from the issuing country (the UK) and re-entered within this period.
Contact the RAC immediately. They can issue a duplicate carnet via the AIT/FIA network with local motoring clubs (AA in Kenya, ACI in Italy, etc.) but it takes 2–4 weeks. Without a carnet you cannot re-export the vehicle from countries that require one.
No, never. Selling a vehicle covered by a carnet voids the carnet immediately, triggers a full claim against your deposit and is a criminal offence in most destination countries. If you need to dispose of the vehicle abroad, you must clear it through full import (paying the country's duty and VAT) and apply for a fresh local title.
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