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

A large trans flag on a metal pole blowing in the wind with a bright blue sky in the background.

MU Stands With Trans, Nonbinary and Intersex Musicians Following New EHRC Guidance

Following the Equality and Human Rights Commission’s (EHRC) draft updated Code of Practice, the MU is seeking information on what the new guidance means for trans, nonbinary and intersex members. We encourage anyone facing discrimination to contact their regional office for support.

Published: 27 May 2026

Read more about MU Stands With Trans, Nonbinary and Intersex Musicians Following New EHRC Guidance
MU members and staff standing in front of the Union's bright yellow marching banner which reads

MU Members Join TUC May Day March in Leeds

MU members and staff took part in the TUC May Day event in Leeds on 2 May, joining trade union colleagues from across the movement in a show of solidarity and collective action.

Published: 15 May 2026

Read more about MU Members Join TUC May Day March in Leeds
Jenny is wearing a rainbow hat and two MU members are wearing Union branded t-shirts, carrying flags and a keyboard.

‘At the Heart of Democracy’: MU Marks IDAHOBIT 2026

Ahead of International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT) on May 17, the MU reflects on a year of member stories, activism and solidarity across the music industry, highlighting the importance of LGBTQ+ voices within the Union and beyond.

Published: 14 May 2026

Read more about ‘At the Heart of Democracy’: MU Marks IDAHOBIT 2026