Taking a Leased or Rented Car Abroad?

The British Vehicle and Leasing Association have issued a warning about taking a rental or lease car abroad. Be aware that if you are not in possession of a form VE103 (vehicle on hire certificate) the vehicle may well be impounded.
If you are using a hire vehicle on mainland Europe you are required to have a vehicle registration document in your possession. If this is not possible then the form VE103, the vehicle on hire certificate can be used as a substitute. This is the only document that the authorities will accept. So if you are unable to produce a registration document or a VE103 then expect to have the vehicle taken away from you.
Cases have occurred where drivers of hired or leased vehicles have been stranded for several days whilst awaiting receipt of acceptable documents which they could produce to the local authorities, such as the police or customs, to gain release of the vehicle. Imagine how infuriating and frustrating this would be.

So if you are taking a hire or lease vehicle onto the continent query this with your hire or lease company if they do not mention this to you first. Reputable companies should be fully aware of this requirement and provide you with the document. Remember if you do not have the correct documentation it could ruin your holiday or disrupt you travel plans.