Required documents to work as a professional driver - What to prepare in order to work abroad

15 October 2024

Here are the most important documents you need to be able to work abroad:

Driving licence of the appropriate category 

In order to work as a professional driver you must have a driving licence of the appropriate category: 

• C – for truck drivers (weight over 3,5 tonnes),
• CE – for truck combinations (truck with trailer),
• D – for bus drivers.

If you are going to work within the European Union and you’re an EU citizen, your driving licence will be valid. If you go to work as a driver in countries outside the EU, you may need to obtain an international driving licence. 

Driver card 

If you undertake work as a driver of a vehicle fitted with a digital tachograph, it is essential that you have a driver card. This is a document that identifies the driver and enables working time, breaks and rest data to be recorded. This card is valid throughout the European Union. 

Certificate of professional competence 

Every professional driver must have a certificate of professional competence (code 95 entered on the driving licence), which confirms he or she has completed training for the carriage of goods or passengers. 
This certificate is required within the EU and confirms that the driver is properly trained to drive for hire or reward. If you are working in countries outside the European Union, regulations may differ, so it is worth checking the local requirements.

Tachograph card (if applicable) 

Drivers carrying out road transport in countries where the tachograph system is in force must have a personal driver card for the digital tachograph, which is used to record driving activities. This card is issued by the relevant authorities in the country where you intend to work. 

Passport or identity card 

A passport is the basic document you must have. If you undertake work in EU countries, it is also possible to go and work with an identity card. However, a passport is essential if you travel outside EU countries. 

In addition, remember to make sure that your documents are valid for at least a few months after your planned date of departure, as many countries require your passport to be valid for at least another six months after you enter their territory. 

Work visa (if applicable) 

A visa is one of the most important documents if you undertake work outside the European Union. A work visa is issued based on a job offer you receive from a foreign employer. However, the process can be time-consuming and requires you to provide various documents such as an employment contract, proof of professional qualifications or a criminal record. Be sure to check which type of visa is required in your country before you leave. 

Work visa types: 

• A temporary visa, which allows you to work for a specific period of time. Usually from a few months to a few years.  
• Long-term visa, which allows a longer stay. It is often linked to the possibility of later applying for permanent residence. 

Work permit (if applicable)

In some countries such as: Switzerland, Norway, the United Kingdom or Serbia, in addition to a work visa, you also need a work permit. This document is issued by the administrative body of the country in which you intend to work. 

Very often it is the employer who helps to obtain the work permit, but it is worth making sure that the whole process is legal. In the case of the European Union countries, citizens of member states do not usually need a work permit. 

Employment contract 

In order to secure legitimate employment conditions and protect yourself from potential abuse, it is crucial to have an employment contract. 

The contract should include:

• Terms and conditions of employment; position, duties,
• Working hours and remuneration,
• The terms of termination,
• Any additional benefits.

Remember to always read the contract carefully, even if it is written in a foreign language. If you have questions - don’t be afraid to ask your employer and use a lawyer or translator if necessary.

Official translation of documents 

Some documents may require an official translation into the language of the country in which you intend to work. This is usually the case for documents such as diplomas, certificates, course certificates or qualifications. 

Certificate of clean criminal record 

In many countries, employers may require a criminal record certificate, especially for jobs involving responsibility for other people. 

International health certificate

Before you can work as a professional driver abroad, you must undergo a medical examination to confirm that you are fit for the job. In many countries, psychological tests for drivers are also required. 

Health insurance 

Having health insurance is a requirement in many countries, especially when obtaining a visa or work permit. In some cases, employers offer private insurance as part of your social package, but in other situations you will need to take care of the appropriate policy yourself. Remember to make sure that your insurance covers the entire period of your stay abroad and that it meets the requirements of the country you’re travelling to. 

Transport documents (ADR, CPC)

Depending on the type of transport you will be carrying out, you may need additional authorisations. For example:

• ADR – if you intend to transport dangerous goods, you must have an ADR certificate, which authorises you to transport hazardous materials.
• CPC – a Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) is required in some EU countries for hauliers and drivers involved in the international transport of goods.

International vehicle registration certificate (if you drive your own vehicle)

If you are working as a self-employed driver or will be using your own vehicle, you will need to carry the relevant vehicle registration documents and valid third party insurance. If you are transporting internationally, you may also need transport-related documents such as a waybill.

Legal work abroad requires proper preparation and the collection of all necessary documents. Before you leave, check and make sure what the requirements are, in the country where you intend to work, to avoid problems. It is advisable to ask for help from an employer who has experience and knows what is necessary to work according to the regulations and requirements. You can read about how to look for a job abroad and how to prepare for an interview.