skip to main content

Driving in the EU: Number Plate Legislation Change

It has come to our attention that from Tuesday 28 September, cars displaying a GB sticker or number plate sign will need to either cover it up or remove it.

Published: 24 September 2021 | 4:58 PM
Photograph of a white car from the side, zoomed in on the wing mirror.
You could fall foul of an overzealous border guard and be turned away if your vehicle doesn't carry the right insignia. Photo credit: Shutterstock

From 28 September, if you wish to drive in the EU you will need to show a UK sticker or number plate sign that has the Union Flag (Union Jack).

This has not been widely publicised. However, you could fall foul of an overzealous border guard and be turned away if your vehicle doesn't carry the right insignia. More detail can be found on the UK Government website.

The UK Government page states:

“On or after 28 September 2021 You will need to display a UK sticker clearly on the rear of your vehicle if your number plate has any of the following:

  • A GB identifier with the Union flag (also known as the Union Jack)
  • A Euro symbol
  • A national flag of England, Scotland or Wales
  • Numbers and letters only - no flag or identifier

If your number plate includes the UK identifier with the Union flag (also known as the Union Jack), you do not need a UK sticker.

If you’re in Spain, Cyprus or Malta, you must display a UK sticker no matter what is on your number plate. If you have a GB sticker, cover or remove it.”

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

Silhouette of crowd with their hands in the air, watching a small outdoor stage, lit by blue lights. Confetti falls from the sky.

MU Welcomes Launch of Northern Music Export Office and UKAT Fund Boost

The MU has welcomed the launch of the Northern Music Export Office (NMEO), calling it a significant step towards creating more opportunities for musicians across the North and helping artists build sustainable careers at home while reaching audiences worldwide.

Published: 25 August 2026

Read more about MU Welcomes Launch of Northern Music Export Office and UKAT Fund Boost
Jack onstage as an older man, wearing a white shirt and playing trombone.

Tribute to John 'Jackie' Free

Jack Free was a talented trombonist who performed alongside some of the great names in jazz during a career spanning more than six decades. He was a proud and long-standing member of the Musicians’ Union, having originally joined in 1956. This tribute has been written by his son, Colin.

Published: 25 August 2026

Read more about Tribute to John 'Jackie' Free
Close up of a Germany visa stamp on a passport.

New Guidance for Musicians Working in Germany

New MU guidance outlines the rules for musicians working in Germany, including work permit exemptions, visa requirements and key considerations for performers accepting engagements in the country.

Published: 20 August 2026

Read more about New Guidance for Musicians Working in Germany