Whether or not you need an Au Pair who can drive will depend on your lifestyle and where you live. If you need an Au Pair who can drive, here are some points to bear in mind:

• Swiss and EU nationals who hold a valid Swiss/EU driving licence are currently entitled to drive in the UK for up to 12 months from their arrival in the UK. For the latest information check out www.direct.gov.uk/non-gb-driving-licence
• You will need to arrange for insurance cover for your Au Pair. We recommend taking out fully comprehensive insurance. Find out what documentation your insurance company needs to see and we can help you assemble all the necessary paperwork. Some insurance companies may have a minimum age restriction so you may need to shop around.
• Always make sure that your Au Pair is comfortable and confident in driving “the wrong way round”.  Remember to ask your Au Pair at interview about his/her driving experience.
• Having a valid driving licence does not mean that your Au Pair has much driving experience. Taking him or her out for a few test runs is an important safeguard. Make sure that he/she is aware of the speed limits in different areas and provide him/her with a copy of the Highway Code. If you are not sure whether your Au Pair is safe to drive, don’t take any risks. Perhaps you should consider arranging for a couple of lessons from a professional to assess his/her capability? 
• Before your Au Pair sits behind the wheel of your car, make it clear about who is liable in the event of an accident.  For example, if your policy has an excess, we recommend that this is a cost you should bear rather than the Au Pair.
• Remember your Au Pair will not be familiar with the area. Having a SatNav will greatly improve the chances that he/she will arrive at the right place at the right time.
• Don’t forget to agree in advance who pays for fuel if you allow your Au Pair to use your car during his/her free time.