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Driving in France Requirements Checklist

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Driving in France: How to rent a car and drive on your French vacation?

If you’re heading to France for your next vacation, don’t leave anything up to chance. This article will tell you what the requirements are for renting a car and driving in France.

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Requirements for driving in France

Renting a car in france, rules of the road in france, driving in france – faqs.

Before you head off on your vacation or business trip in France, make sure you have examined all the rules and requirements – there are quite a few!

Documents to carry with you when driving in France

Below is a summary of everything you will need to take with you, keeping in mind that the minimum age for driving in France is 18+ :

• Valid driver’s license (and its translation in French, or an International Driving Permit)
• Valid passport or National ID Card (for EU citizens)
• Car equipment
• In addition to the above documents, your rental car should be equipped with the following items:
• Warning triangle
• High-visibility jacket

Other seasonal requirements include:

• Snow chains (if you are driving within a “Snow Zone” between 1st of November and 31st of March)

Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning to rent a vehicle in France.

What do you need to rent a car in France?

In order to rent a car in France you must be at least 18 years of age. However, some car rental companies might have a higher age minimum. Below is a list of all the normally required documents:

• Valid driver’s license (which you have had for at least a year)
• Translation of your driving license in French, or an International Driving Permit (IDP)
• Valid Passport for identification
• Credit card (some agencies accept debit cards, but not all)
• Third-party liability insurance (this is usually included in the car rental contract)

Tips for renting a car in France

There are a few things to remember or watch out for when renting a car in France. Car rental policies usually include unlimited third-party insurance by default as this is a requirement when driving in France. For additional insurance coverage, it is best to do some research and shop around. Buying insurance from the rental car company is likely to be costlier.

If you’re planning on driving in more than one country, make sure you inform the rental car company in advance, and ensure that your insurance covers all of the countries you plan on visiting.

When you pick up your rental car, you should inspect it in detail and take note of any marks or scratches, and take photos upon returning it as proof of the condition you returned it in. Remember also that if you pick up the car with a full tank, you need to return it with a full tank to avoid refueling charges.

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Minimum driving age

The minimum driving age in France is 16 for motorcycles, 18 for cars, and 21 for larger vehicles such as buses.

Speed limits

On a day with normal traffic and weather conditions, the speed limit is 50km/h (about 30mph) in built-up areas, 80km/h (about 50mph) on main roads, 110km/h (about 70mph) on priority roads and 130km/h (about 80mph) on motorways.

The three latter speeds are decreased if there is rain or poor visibility. Please remember that speed limits in France are displayed on the roads in km/h, so it’s useful to familiarize yourself with that system of measurement.

Highways and toll roads

French highways are privately owned by a number of companies and usually require you to pay a toll. This can be paid in cash or by card, however please note that only Mastercard and Visa are accepted.

You will find three types of service areas on highways: parking areas, rest areas with playgrounds and toilets, and full-service areas with shops and petrol stations. In the case of an emergency, you are not allowed to call your own tow company. Instead, use one of the orange emergency telephones to call for help. These are situated every 2km along the highways.

Roundabouts

In France, there are two styles of roundabout with slightly different rules.

With old-style roundabouts, any vehicles that are already on the roundabout must give way to vehicles entering the roundabout on their right. These roundabouts are less common these days, with the most famous probably being the one around the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.

In general, you can recognize them by a sign in the shape of a triangle with a red border and a black X in the middle. As for new-style roundabouts, the priority goes to all vehicles that are already on the roundabout. Of course, emergency vehicles that have a flashing siren always have priority, no matter which direction they are coming from.

Blood-alcohol limit & drunk driving

The rule in France is ‘Celui qui conduit, c’est celui qui ne boit pas,’ meaning ‘The one who drives is the one who is not drinking.’ It’s a very important rule, one that is closely monitored by the police on the roads.

The maximum blood-alcohol level is 0.05%. This is a lower limit than in most of the United States, so make sure you are careful with your consumption of alcohol while visiting France.

Child seat regulations

Children up to the age of 10 years must travel in a child seat or restraint. Infants below 30lbs (13kg) in weight need to be in a rear-facing child seat, kids weighing below 40lbs (18kg) should be placed in a child seat equipped with a protection tray or a five-point harness, while children below 80lbs (36kg) must be in a booster seat or booster cushion with an adult seatbelt to protect them.

Low emission zones

Some cities, such as Paris, Toulouse and Lyon, are classified as Low Emission Zones. The rules for these zones are as follows: any cars registered before 2011, whether petrol or diesel, are banned from driving inside the zone on weekdays between 8am and 8pm. Lorries and buses manufactured before 1997 are also banned from driving inside these zones. Driving in these areas with an unauthorized vehicle can lead to a fine of €68 (around $75 USD) ( find more information here ).

Penalties & Fines

There are four categories of fines in France. Depending on the gravity of your offense, your fine could set you back anywhere from €11 (about $13 USD) to €750 (about $810 USD). This amount can be reduced if you pay within three days in person or within 15 days by post. If you don’t pay within 45 days, the amount will be increased. It is possible to get on-the-spot fines. Some of the reasons you could be fined include not having the Crit’Air vignette displayed on the car when traveling in a Low Emission Zone or wearing headphones when driving.

Means of payment

Common methods of payment include cash in euros, credit or debit card, and traveler’s check.

If you’re looking for a space to park on a road with traffic running in both directions, you are only allowed to park on the right-hand side. On the other hand, if the street you are on is a one-way street, you can park on either side of the road, providing there is enough space. Keep an eye out for the yellow lines on the curb that indicate spots where parking is prohibited, and make sure you read the signs to see if you need to pay for parking – you will usually see a big “P” on the parking meter, or “horodateur,” if you are required to pay. Otherwise, there will be signs depicting a parking meter, usually in the bottom right hand corner. Disabled drivers have dedicated spots and do not have to pay for parking.

It is important to know the names of the different types of fuel in French to avoid mistakes. SP95/E10 is unleaded fuel with 90% gasoline and 10% ethanol, while E85 is unleaded fuel with 70% to 85% ethanol and the rest gasoline. Important: if you see the word “Gasole” please keep in mind that this is the word for diesel – not gasoline! GPL is also available, and in some locations so are electric stations.

You can usually pay by cash or by card, but please keep in mind that some cards issued abroad are not always accepted by automated machines, so make sure you have enough cash on you, especially when driving on Sundays.

How KAYAK knows what to put in this guide

KAYAK takes pride in leveraging its vast experience across all areas of travel. KAYAK’s roster of seasoned travel writers have curated and carefully fact-checked this guide to ensure it provides the most up-to-date and accurate information possible. KAYAK’s goal is to provide you with a simple, convenient source for all things travel.

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Coming to France? Your Covid-19 questions answered

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French people who are living abroad, travelling or returning from abroad, as well as visitors from abroad, will find answers below to frequently asked questions on COVID-19 measures.

This FAQ supplements the information on the Conseils aux voyageurs (Travel advice, in French only) section.

— Last updated on 26 August 2022 —

What are the rules relating to the vaccine pass?

Since 14 March 2022, the “vaccine pass” has been lifted in France in all areas where it was previously required (cultural and leisure venues, commercial catering, professional trade shows, etc.). Similarly, the COVID certificate is no longer required as of 1 August 2022.

What are the current rules applied at national borders?

Since the outset of the crisis, the health check system at borders has protected our healthcare system and delayed the arrival into France of worrying variants. This system was removed on 1 August 2022.

Therefore, the rules previously in place for travellers to France no longer apply :

• Travellers no longer have any formalities to complete before arriving into mainland or overseas France, and the COVID certificate can no longer be required, irrespective of the country or area of origin;
• Proof of a compelling reason for travel can no longer be required ;
• Travellers no longer need to present a sworn declaration that they are not infected with COVID-19 and pledge to take an antigen test or biological exam upon arrival in France. This also applies to travel between mainland France and each of the overseas territories.

However, in the event of a dangerous variant, a system requiring a negative virological test upon entering France may be reinstated for travellers arriving from countries believed to be at risk.

The government will thus maintain the option to use “emergency brake” measures for a maximum period of two months, following a recommendation from the Haute autorité de santé (French National Authority for Health) in the event of the emergence and circulation of a new COVID-19 variant which can be a serious health risk, or in overseas territories, if the health system is at risk of saturation.

Furthermore, for foreign travel, a vaccination certificate, a negative test certificate or proof of recovery in EU format may be required by the destination country. It is also recommended to store all relevant documents on the TousAntiCovid application or print them out.

For the health rules in force for entering other countries, travellers should visit the “ Conseils aux voyageurs ” section on the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs website (in French only).

What are the rules concerning mask-wearing in France?

• Mask-wearing is no longer mandatory in establishments open to the public, nor on board maritime, river, land and air transport;
• Mask-wearing continues to be recommended in enclosed and small spaces, and at large gatherings for vulnerable persons due to their age;
• It is also highly recommended in hospitals and retirement homes.
• Details on travelling to and from France

Driving in France

Serge Mouraret / Getty Images

France is one of the most popular destinations for tourists in the world, let alone Western Europe. Fortunately, the country has a very good road system that accommodates all the visitors, with more road coverage than any other country in the European Union.

France has a total of 965,916 kilometers (600,192 miles) of local, secondary, main roads, and motorways.​ While many travelers like using local public transportation and the fast trains the country offers, others prefer renting a vehicle to move around with a bit more freedom and mobility.

Driving Requirements

Adults 18 and above can drive in France. Driver's licenses issued in one of the European Economic Area (EEA) states are valid indefinitely, while licenses from outside of Europe are acceptable for up to one year in France. Bring passports for all people in the car, car insurance documents, the car's registration certificate , and your M.O.T. certificate (for cars over three years old, proving the vehicle meets environmental and road safety standards).

Check with your insurance company regarding whether you will be fully covered while driving in France, and bring their phone number with you. When you rent a car, insurance should be included; make sure you and anyone planning to drive the car is properly insured.

In France, it is required to carry breathalyzers in your car, although the law isn’t enforced and there is no penalty for drivers caught without a breathalyzer. If you have an accident, by law you and all passengers must put on a high-visibility vest before exiting the car.

Checklist for Driving in France

• Driver's license (required)
• Proof of insurance (required)
• Breathalyzer (required)
• Safety vest (required)

Rules of the Road

• Following signs : Look for destination signs rather than road numbers if you can. As there are so many authorities involved in road management, the road you are on can change from an ‘N’ road to a ‘D’ road without warning, and also change its number.
• Developed areas : Give way to traffic coming from the right ( priorit é   à  droite) even when it's unclear (such as at complicated intersections without signs). Do not use a horn unless it is an emergency.
• Handling roundabouts : Drive with caution. If you see the signs Vous n’avez pas la priorit é or C é dez le passage you must yield to the traffic already   on the roundabout which has priority. If there are no signs, traffic entering the roundabout has priority.
• Gas stations : Use a map app to find the station closest to you, and pay by the liter in euros. Many cars require diesel fuel versus gasoline ( petrol ). Avoid buying fuel which is a type of red diesel sold to farmers.
• Cell phones : The only phone legal to use while driving is completely hands-free and doesn't require a headphone. If you are caught using a mobile phone while driving, you are liable to an on-the-spot fine, and penalty points if you have a French driving license. 
• Children and car seats : Children under 13 must be in car seats or wearing seat belts appropriate for their age and height. Babies and infants about a year old or under should always be positioned in rear-facing car seats. 
• Seat belts : They must be worn all the time by both adults and children in the front and back seats. Rear passengers can only travel without seat belts in the back of older cars in which they are not fitted.
• Alcohol : France has strict laws—the permitted alcohol blood level for drivers is very low, at 0.02 percent blood alcohol content. Penalties including imprisonment can be serious for drivers pulled over. French gendarmes (police) can stop you randomly to check your papers and carry out the test for alcohol. 
• In case of an emergency : Dial 15 from a French mobile phone if the accident is serious—for the ambulance service ( Service d'Aide Médical d'Urgence, Medical Emergency Aid Service ). On a non-French phone, call 112. Mention your exact location and the circumstance of the incident. Call 18 for the French fire brigade ( les pompiers ), also trained to deal with medical emergencies. They are often the first to arrive in case of road injuries, and in rural areas, they will probably arrive the fastest and provide an ambulance service.

Road Numbers

Roads in France are diverse, with everything from major highways to single-lane roads in the rural areas. Get familiar with the different types of roads so you'll feel comfortable on your journey.

• A roads (as in A6) are motorways, called autoroutes in France.
• N roads are national strategic truck routes.
• D roads are departmental (county) roads. They range from busy local routes and former national routes now downgraded (make sure you have an up-to-date map with the new road numbers) to tiny country lanes.
• France also displays a European road number. French numbers are in white on a red background; European numbers are white on a green background.
• The word péage at the bottom of the sign indicates a toll road ahead.
• You may see direction signs with the word Bis . These are holiday routes along less crowded roads. So if you see Bis Strasbourg , this is an alternative route avoiding main roads. They will probably be slower, but there will be less truck traffic, and you may avoid traffic jams.

Using Highways (Autoroutes)

There are tolls on nearly all motorways (called autoroutes) in France. The only exceptions to this are where the autoroute has been created from an already existing road, and around major towns and cities.

You take a ticket as you enter the motorway from a machine, and pay when you exit the motorway. At some motorway péages , there will be no person at the booth. Many autoroute exit machines accept credit and debit cards. If you're paying by cash, check the ticket you pick up at the entrance to the motorway, as some will have the price at various exits printed on the ticket.

If you don't want to pay by credit card (which is more expensive once you've taken charges and exchange rates into consideration) make sure you have change. When you get to the exit, put your card into the machine, and it will tell you how much to pay. If you're paying by cash and only have notes, the machine will give you change. It will also have a button for a receipt (a reçu ) if you need one.

If you regularly drive in France or are taking a long journey, Sanef France has extended the Liber-t automated French tolls payment service to U.K. motorists. Go on to the U.K. Sanef site to enroll. You can then pass through the gates with the sign of a large orange ‘t’ on a black background. If you’re alone and in a right-hand drive car, it does save you from either leaning over or getting out to pay the toll and holding up what might be a queue of irate drivers in a hurry. It will cost you a little more in upfront fees, but it may be worth it.

Busy Times on French Roads

The busiest time of the year is the summer, which runs from around July 14 when the schools start their summer holidays to around September 4 (when the schools open). Other school holidays when you can expect more traffic on the roads include the last week of February and the first week of March, Easter , and from the end of April to the second week of May.

Public holidays when the roads are busy include April 1, May 1, May 8, May 9, May 20, July 14 , August 15, November 1, November 11, December 25, and January 1.

If You Are in a Road Accident in France

If your car is immobilized on the road or partly on the road due to a breakdown or an accident, you must set up a red warning triangle at a suitable distance behind the vehicle, so approaching traffic will know there is a hazard.

You will be asked to fill in a constat amiable (friendly declaration) by the driver of any French car involved. If you can, call your insurance company at once on your mobile phone. They may be able to put you in contact with a local French insurance representative. If there are any injuries involved, even if it is not your fault, you must stay with the car until the police arrive.

Renting a Car

There are car rental companies all over the country, in major and small cities and at airports. All the big names have a presence in France. If you're planning a longer stay, then consider the very good-value Renault Eurodrive Buy-Back Car Leasing Scheme . Most cars are stick shift, so specify if you would like an automatic transmissions car.

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Driving in France: what should I know?

Publié par Eplaque - 8 min de lecture ⏳

Le 16/09/2022 - Mis à jour le 08/02/2024

In the 21th century, going abroad becomes more and more seamless, whether we travel by plane, boat or car. However, there can still be some challenges. With solid information, they can be, however, easily overcomed. What do I need to drive in France? What are the requirements? Driving license, green card for the insurance, road rules, LEZ (Crit’air)… Here is everything you should know when driving in France . 

• Driving in France: generic infos

France has approximately 40,000 km of national roads, of which 9,600 km are motorways. The conditions are therefore ideal for exploration by car. Most highways are paid. They were built from the sixties by private companies. The government also decided at that time to maintain a good network of national roads, the famous « N + number » also written “RN” for “Route Nationale”. Traffic jams are frequent on French highways in summer and particularly between the end of July/beginning of August and the end of August/beginning of September. That period is known as the “chassé-croisé”, when people go back home from holiday while many others leave.

• Who can drive in France?

Any person aged 18 or more holding a valid driving license can drive in France . If the driving license is European, it is accepted as is. When the driving license has been issued by a country not belonging to the EU, you will need an international driving permit , or a certified translation in French. If your driving license is from the UK, you don’t need any of those, it is enough alone. This is due to the fact that both countries recognize driving licenses of the other. Brexit has not impacted this agreement.

• Driving in France: rules and speed limits

In France, cars drive on the right side of the road. The steering wheel is placed on the left side of the vehicle. In the event of a violation of the highway code, the payment of fines is made on the spot, by card. Wearing a seat belt is compulsory. Children are allowed to sit in the front of the vehicle if they are over 10 years old . Child seats are compulsory for all children up to the age of 12 (front or behind). French speed limits are the following, unless stated otherwise via road panels:

• Schools and special low speed areas: 30 km/h
• Built-up areas and cities: 50 km/h
• Outside urban areas: 80 km/h
• Motorways: 110-130 km/h

Check out speed limits in France for a comprehensive review of this topic.

• Available fuels

In large French cities, you will find many service stations open 24 hours a day. They sell a wide range of fuels: standard gas, diesel, E85, LPG. Charging stations for electric cars are also commonplace now. As everywhere, fuel tends to be more expensive at service stations located on the motorways. Read our tips on how to find the cheapest petrol in France .

In France, highways are not free . The price depends on the distance. On road signs, highways are represented in blue and by the letter « A » followed by the number of the corresponding highway, or E if it’s a European one.

In many small or medium-sized French towns, parking is paid and regulated by means of parking meters. Most major cities have adopted the parking disc system which you simply place on the dashboard of the parked vehicle. These discs are available in police stations, tourist offices, etc. Many French parking fees can be paid via apps.

• Driving in France with a UK licence or any other foreign permit

Yes, you can legally drive in France with a valid UK driver’s licence for up to 12 months from the date you last entered the country.  If you own an old pink or green driving license, you must also hold an IDP (international driving permit). If you own the recent permit, it is not required. In general you can drive as a tourist with your local driving license, together with an IDP if the driving license is not in French.

For people taking residency in the country, their local license will have to be exchanged for a French license after 1 year (non EU) or 18 months (EU).

• Driving in France: requirements & checklist

You wonder what do I need to drive in France ? Well, you need at least all the documents that are required at home. Driving license, proof of insurance, MOT, car registration certificate , to be more specific. Here are what you will need on top of those basic documents.

• Crit’air sticker for driving in LEZ in Paris, Marseilles…

A growing number of French cities have implemented a Low Emission Zone, known as LEZ or ZFE in French. To avoid a ban, cars must have a Crit’air sticker on the windshield. Its color depends on the car rating. Each city determines which cars can enter or not the zone. Different rules can apply:

• Total ban based on Critair classification: in Marseilles, for example
• Partial ban, during daytime and weekdays: Paris, for example
• Total ban in case of pollution alert: Avignon

Foreign cars are also concerned by this rule. If you plan to travel in France, it’s better to automatically order your Crit’air sticker (online only). If you own a recent vehicle, e.g. eligible to a Crit’air 1 or 2 sticker, you don’t have to worry, you can drive in any city. Do you own an older car? Then you’ll have to check the local rules each time you drive in a big French city .

Your car must have a valid insurance that covers France. A third-party insurance cover is enough.

Do you need a green card to drive in France when you are from the UK?

No. A simple certificate of motor insurance is enough to drive in France. The requirement to have a green card to drive their vehicles in France was cancelled on August 2, 2021.

• What do you need to drive in France in terms of equipment in your car?

There are only 2 mandatory items that you should carry in your car:

• Warning triangle : must be compliant with E 27 R standard
• Retro reflective car safety jacket /vest: must be compliant with CE standard

That’s it. Even a fire extinguisher is not mandatory.

• Driving with foreign plates: rules are defined by the Vienna Convention

France has ratified the Vienna Convention on road traffic of November 8, 1968. This validation without interpretative reservations has been integrated into French law via the Decree 77-1040 of 1977 . It is therefore this Vienna Convention which governs the circulation of vehicles with foreign license plates on French roads.

• What does the Vienna Convention on road traffic say?

In short, the Vienna Convention provides for the authorization of circulation of vehicles registered abroad. There are no different rules for cars registered in the EU or outside the Union. However, 2 conditions must be met in order to benefit from this right:

• The owner must be a natural or legal person who has his main residence outside the country visited
• The vehicle cannot be driven for more than one year without interruption . After this period, it is no longer considered a foreign vehicle by the convention. It must therefore be registered on the spot or leave the French territory

In short, foreigners who are not domiciled in France can drive up to a year with the vehicle registered in their country . Leaving the territory resets the counter . Of course, it is very difficult for the police to know the dates of entry and exit of the vehicle. It is therefore a rule that is hard to enforce.

A person who is sent to work in France for a long period and who does not take up his main residence in the country can therefore continue to drive his vehicle. On the other hand, any foreigner who comes to settle in France will have to complete the registration procedure in France in the 30 days following its registration as a resident.

• The case of imported vehicles with foreign plates

For people holding their main residence in France who import a vehicle from abroad, it is possible to drive with foreign plates, but for a maximum period of one month. After which the vehicle must either have a definitive French registration or a temp WW registration certificate .

• Driving with foreign license plates in France: attention

If foreign vehicles can circulate freely in France under the conditions listed above, there are of course basic rules to respect:

• The registration must be valid : it is of course out of the question to drive with canceled plates, for example from Germany . Registration must be valid
• The vehicle must be insured for the country visited: you can drive in France with, say, an American gray card in your name. But does your car insurance cover claims in Europe? You must have international insurance in order
• Second residence in France: can I drive with foreign plates? Register a car in France?

If you own a second residence in France, you can:

• Drive with your foreign plate : it’s legal as far as the car doesn’t stay more than one year in France. Once you cross the border, the counter restarts
• Register the car in France : even if the law is not clear about it, authorities have confirmed in 2022 that a person holding its main residence abroad and able to provide a proof of address can register legally a car in France . However, you won’t be able to use that car in your home country for more than a month
• What do I need to drive in France in a nutshell (documents and equipment)?

In short, here is what you need to drive in France:

• Proof of insurance
• Car registration certificate
• Valid driving license
• Crit’air sticker (unless you don’t plan to drive in big cities center)
• Warning triangle
• Retro reflective car safety jacket
• Money to pay tolls if you plan to use French highways

No, you don’t need to carry such device when driving in France.

If your car plate has the identifier UK (which replaced GB), you don’t need a sticker. Otherwise, you’ll have to place a UK sticker behind your car.

No, you don’t need to carry your international driving permit, your UK license is enough.

If you have less than 3 years of driving experience, the alcohol limit is 0.2 gram per liter. If you have more experience the limit is lifted to 0.5 grams.

As a tourist, yes, but you will also need an IDP (international driving permit) if you hold an old UK driving licence (green or pink).

You need a Crit’air sticker, that can be ordered online for a few euros.

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• Driving in France

Everything you need to know before driving in France

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• Study in France

A guide to the roads and motorways of France

• COVID .  Covid vaccination is recommended for all potentially "at risk" people, notably the elderly (over 60s). Masks may remain recommended  or obligatory in some places, notably hospitals, doctors' surgeries and some other places. Visitors are recommended to  carry a Covid vaccination status attestation (vaccination certificate on paper or on mobile phone). UK NHS or EU covid attestations are accepted,
• Summer 2024 - PARIS OLYMPICS . . The Olympic Games are being held in and around Paris from 26 July to 11 August 2024. Drivers are particularly advised to avoid the Paris area during this period.
• Driving license . Drivers from the UK,  EU countries, Switzerland,and EEA countries. Your national drivers license is valid in France for tourism travel up to twelve months, and for students studying in France for the duration of their student visa. Drivers with licenses from other countries must have a valid national license PLUS either an official translation into French or an IDP ( International Drivers Permit) ), which can be obtained ► here . An IDP is recommended, though not required, for drivers with a license issued in the USA (though it is required in some other parts of Europe).
• Low Emission Zones - A growing number of French cities, including all big cities, now have ZFE's – LEZ Low Emission Zones – from which more polluting vehicles are excluded... as are all vehicles not showing an air-quality sticker, known as a Crit'Air badge. Among cties concerned is Rouen, which is right on the route for many drivers heading south from Calais or Dieppe. Currently access to Rouen, or through Rouen, is forbidden to vehicles classed Crit'Air 4 or 5 - essentially diesels older than 2006 and petrol cars from before 1997. Crit'Air stickers for French or foreign registered vehicles can be obtained online from the French Government Website (in English) and cost €4.76. Visit the site to apply for your sticker. Even if you have an electric vehicle, you must display a Crit'Air sticker to drive into or through any city with a low emission zone - or face a fine.

PLAN YOUR JOURNEY...... AVOID THE BUSIEST WEEKENDS Summer 2024

Official traffic density forecasts:.

MOTORWAYS OR NOT ?

►french motorways:, principal signs on french motorway toll gates:  .

• X -  Red cross : closed -

2024 Motorway tolls in France  - 

► free motorways and routes avoiding tolls .

• ►  toll-free route to Southwest France and northern Spain ►   toll-free route the Alps and the Mediterranean

• two thirds of the section on the A16 - A28 route between Calais and Rouen
• the A 84 from Caen to Rennes
• 275 km of the A20 from Vierzon to just south of Brive la Gaillarde (the longest stretch of free motorway in France, and the main Paris-Toulouse route).
• 340 km of the A75 motorway between Clermont Ferrand and Beziers - an alternate route for people driving to Languedoc and the Spanish border. Note however the Millau viaduct has a toll ( Toll prices ). Mountain motorway not recommended for caravans or in winter.
• the motorway between Dunkerque and Lille .
• Most urban and suburban autoroutes in France are also free; and even when they are not, it makes more sense to pay the toll and avoid miles of traffic lights and congestion.
• Main arterial roads west of Rennes, in Brittany
• The N 10 from Poitiers to Bordeaux . See map of routes through France.

► TRUNK ROADS  - arterial roads:

Road numbering in france.

Avoiding main roads in France

"bison futé" and driving on the byways of france.

"Routes bis"

► avoiding paris, night driving in france, ►hgv restrictions in france, ► petrol (gas) stations in france, fuel prices in france :, ev (electric vehicle) recharging in france :, ► overnight stops., driving in france -  maps.

► South from Calais - best routes to the south of France

► Real time  map   showing traffic congestion and hazards on French roads. Zoom in.

  ► French motorways map

► Southwest :  A10 Tours - Bordeaux - E5

► Southeast :  A26  via Reims - E17, E15

► East - West :   E19 - E44 from Belgium

►  to SW France and N Spain

►   to the Alps and the Mediterranean

► Driving in Spain

New speed cameras.  

• January 1st, New year's day
• Easter Monday (though not Good Friday except in Alsace),
• May 1st, Labour Day, Fête du Travail
• May 8th, Armistice Day
• Ascension Thursday
• July 14th, Bastille Day, Fête Nationale
• August 15th, French August bank holiday
• November 1st, Toussaint, All Saints' Day
• November 11th, Armistice, first world war.
• Christmas (though not Boxing Day)
• Driving in Spain
• Driving in Britain for foreign visitors
• Driving in Quebec (and Canada)
• Driving in the USA  

France by Car – Guide to Driving in France

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

Driving in France as a Tourist

So you are planning your once-in-a-lifetime trip to France and are wondering how to get around efficiently, all while seeing the beautiful country at your own pace. Naturally, touring France by car is a fantastic option for transportation in France .

In this guide to driving in France as a tourist, you will learn how to drive in France, and we will cover everything you’ll need to know, including driving requirements, common rules and regulations, and more. This guide to France by car also comes with a driving in France checklist, so we are sure you don’t forget anything!

Driving In France Guide – Table of Contents:

• Driving in France requirements
• Renting a car in France
• Driving in France checklist
• Roads in France
• Toll roads in France (Péages)
• Villages Etapes
• Driving in Paris
• French Crit Air (pollution stickers for France)
• French road signs and French traffic signs
• Rules of the Road in France
• Car accidents in France

1. Driving in France Requirements

If you plan on traveling to France by car, you need to be aware that there are certain requirements before getting behind the wheel. The following are the documents that you must have with you at all times and other requirements for legally driving in France.

• Valid Driver’s License
• Current registration and proof of purchase (if driving your own vehicle): When driving your own car, a valid driver’s license, as well as registration or proof of ownership, is required to be with you at all times in the car.
• Valid Passport: a passport is required for both the driver as well as any other people in the car.
• Valid Car Insurance: For car rentals in France, double-check your contract and agreement that this has been included in the paperwork or is in the car and is up to date.
• All drivers must be 18 years of age in order to drive in France. Even student drivers with a permit and with an adult are not allowed.
• Towing: If you intend on towing anything behind your primary vehicle when traveling to France by car, ensure that you have all the proper licensing documentation from the country of origin. This includes a sticker on the license plate from your country that matches the plate on your car.

2. Renting a Car in France

Car hire in France is a fantastic choice to tour France on your own. You can book through sites such as DiscoverCars.com . This site is great because it takes all of the major rental companies, such as Hertz, Avis, and more, and compares prices for you. This helps to ensure that you get a great price without all the time and work.

We have written a dedicated article about renting a car in France , with all the information and our best tips for car hire in France.

So you’ve got wheels; now what?

3. Driving in France Checklist

What are the driving requirements in France? What are the essentials for a road trip in France? If you are heading out on a road trip through France, there are some things you should remember to check and take. This driving in France checklist will see you right.

This packing list for a road trip , instead, includes personal items to keep you comfortable and general travel items.

4. Roads in France

Knowing the different kinds of roads in France can make a huge difference in the comfort, ease, and stress of driving.

Roads Labeled:

» A: These are ‘Autoroutes.’ Other countries call them motorways or interstates. An example of this in France is the A8.

» N: The ‘N’ stands for ‘National Strategic Truck Routes.’ These roads are good alternatives to toll roads and Autoroutes, but you can expect them to take longer than the motorways.

» D: A ‘D’ road is a county (Departmental) road. ‘D’ roads can be anything from tiny little roads to busy streets that once were national routes.  If the latter is the case, they will have received new street numbers, so a current map is vital to understanding where you are driving.

»  Road Numbers: It can sometimes be confusing if you see multiple numbers on a road sign. French road numbers will be white on a red background.  European road numbers are white on a green background.  Oftentimes, both will be listed, especially if the road leads from France to another European destination.

» Péage: This means Toll Road Ahead

» Bis: Oftentimes, there will be alternative routes posted with the word ‘Bis’ and a destination. For example, you may see ‘Bis Lyon.’  This is the equivalent of the British ‘Holiday Route,’ which is simply a secondary or alternative option to the main motorway.  These will often have less traffic or are to avoid traffic jams.

5. Toll Roads in France (Péages)

When driving in France, while there is no vignette required, you can expect a toll on almost all Autoroutes. The signs ( péages) are well marked, and you will know when you approach a new toll.

You will typically come to a toll plaza that has machines in each lane where you will take a ticket stating where your toll starts.

You pay for the toll when you exit the motorway to either an attendant or another automatic machine that takes credit and debit cards.

In addition to the toll roads, you may also encounter tunnels or bridges that also require a toll. For most of these, you will pay before entering.

For further information regarding French toll roads, you can learn more here .

TIP: this really useful tool estimates the costs of the fuel and tolls for traveling from A to B in France (you can change the price/liter).

6. Villages Etapes

Village Etape  is a quality label in France that could be translated as “Stopover Villages.” The concept is very simple: located less than 5 minutes from a national road or a free motorway, the Villages Etapes offer all the shops and services necessary for your breaks on the road in a much more picturesque atmosphere.

Read more about the Villages Etape – where they are and what they offer –, and make your French road trips more enjoyable by planning your breaks around them.

7. Driving in Paris

While driving to France is great for exploring the countryside, it is recommended not to bring a car into the French capital.

Paris has a great public transportation infrastructure, making car hire pointless. For example, the traffic in Paris can be overwhelming for tourist drivers. The highway that encircles Paris is the la Périphérique, and there is almost no way to avoid it when driving into the city.  It becomes quite hectic when you need to exit (on the far right out of 4 lanes) but simultaneously needing to head the car merging (also on your right!), all while keeping a careful eye on the 70 km/hr speed limit!

Once IN the city, driving is still quite stressful, and then finding parking in the city is also extremely difficult. Even if you are lucky to find street parking available, you have to pay to use most of them.

Therefore, take advantage of the great public transportation in Paris and ditch the car. If driving your own vehicle, there are many easy and affordable parks and rides outside of the city – for example, Disneyland Paris. Simply park at the lot, pay the fee, and take public transportation into the city.

If you need a rental car after your time in Paris, there are plenty of agencies with locations on the outskirts of the city (to avoid city driving), or rent a car at the airport (also on the outskirts). We recommend doing this at the end of your time in Paris, just before heading off to your other destinations.

TIP: Book ahead of time with DiscoverCars.com to get the best prices .

Gas/fuel Stations in Paris

While there are several gas stations along the circular ring road (périphérique) when entering Paris, they can be harder to find in the actual city. If you are planning to drive to France, it is also best to fuel up outside of Paris, as prices tend to be cheaper away from the city.

You can use a Gas Finder App or even Google Maps to help figure out the best routing option for fueling up.

Watching Out for Cyclists and Pedestrians

When driving in Paris or anywhere in France, remember to give pedestrians the right of way and to always be on the lookout in busy locations.

Cyclists don’t always follow traffic laws. You may find them cruising in between lanes and dodging in and out of cars. People walking sometimes run out into the street, despite the signs telling them to wait, so just be vigilant and patient.

8. French Crit Air (pollution stickers for France)

Many EU countries have emission laws in regard to driving, and France is no exception. Since 2016 vehicular access to certain cities /areas has been governed by the requirement to display a valid French Crit Air – Air Quality Certificate clearly visible on your windshield.

These areas have been designated “low emission zones” and can be permanent (ZCR or “Zone à Circulation Restreinte”) or temporary (ZPA or “Zone de la Protection de l’Air”).

The main cities /areas where this applies currently are Paris, Grand Paris, Rouen, Montpelier, Grand Reims, Lyon, Saint-Etienne, Marseille, Strasbourg, Toulouse, and Nice .

Basically, diesel vehicles made before 2006 are not allowed in these areas at all. Other vehicles should display the appropriate certificate (which you can apply for here ).

The French Crit Air sticker is mandatory in low-emissions zones for mobility (LEZ-m) and during periods when the traffic is differentiated. Signs will be posted in the restricted areas and will include the time of the ban.

You can easily get the French Crit Air sticker online a few days before driving in France. For vehicles caught without the proper sticker, expect a fine.

Some rental car agencies will help you obtain these, others you will need to order one ahead of time yourself. Speak to your car rental company to know if you will need to get one on your own.

For more information as well as to obtain a sticker, click here .

9. Rules for Driving in France

French Traffic Signs

When driving in a new country, you must familiarize yourself with the local roadway rules and signs. While many of the French traffic signs can be easy enough to figure out, such as the “warning” signs, others are not as intuitive, like the signs stating who has priority when and where or those with French words on them (if you don’t speak French).

Luckily, most French traffic signs are the same as you will find throughout the rest of the EU, so if you are driving elsewhere, you may not need to learn too many extras.

TIP: Here is a complete visual list of driving in France road signs to learn before you start driving.

10. Rules of the Road in France

Rules for driving in France are pretty common and typical among other EU countries’ driving regulations. However, make sure you’ve read through the following so you understand if you need to take further actions to ensure you are within the law.

»  Seatbelts: ALL passengers are legally required to be belted. In fact, it is the driver who can be ticketed and fined for passengers not wearing seat belts.

»  Infants and Car Seats: All babies and infants are required to be in proper car seats. If under the age of one, it must be rear-facing.

»  Children Under 13: Please make sure that all children under 13 either have the correct car seats or booster seats for their age and height or belt adjusters. Also, children under 13 are not allowed to sit in the front passenger seat.

» Drinking: France is extremely strict about drinking and driving. The blood-alcohol level can only be below 0.02%, which for many people is even just one drink! Serious penalties, such as extremely high fines, license revoked, and even jail, are all things you don’t want to have to deal with on your trip to France.

» Driving With Headlights On: While it is only compulsory for motorcycles to have headlights on at all times while driving, it is strongly encouraged for all drivers to have low beams on while driving both during the day and at night, especially when on country roads.

Keeping high beams on when approaching oncoming traffic can also result in tickets and/or fines.

» Right of Way To the Right: Like most European countries, whoever is approaching on the right has the right of way unless otherwise noted. When in doubt, give the right of way! For example, when driving on a neighborhood road, any roads to the right of you have the right of way over you. While there are certain street signs to indicate who has the right of way (see the above section and recommended links), you may also see a sign stating “Vous n’avez pas la priorité, “ which means you do not have the priority. This is a perfect example of making sure you have reviewed and understood all of the above road signs so that you follow the laws of the local country.

» Driving in Kilometers: For most countries, this is not an issue, but if you are coming from a country that uses miles instead of kilometers, just make a mental note and start looking at conversions to familiarize yourself with the difference. For example, 50 kilometers/hr is 31 miles/ hr, which is what you will find on many highways. Most Autoroutes have a speed limit of 130 km/hr, which is roughly 80 mph. Speed limits can change depending on current driving conditions, so it is essential to be paying attention to the signs.

» French Roundabout Rules: Roundabouts are found all over Europe, but for foreigners, they can be confusing and scary. Just remember that you must head to the traffic already in the roundabout before entering. Use your signal only to indicate when exiting.

» Driving in France: Left or right? Many people ask how to drive in France (which way), and the answer is that they drive on the right, like most mainland EU countries. This also means that when entering a roundabout, the traffic will go clockwise.

11. Car Accidents in France

Nobody likes to envision a car accident or breaking down while on their trip. However, it is still important to know exactly what to do if something should happen.

• Put on your safety vest from your driving kit .
• Set up the red warning triangle (also in your driving kit). Give enough distance for oncoming cars to become aware that a car is on the side of the road or there is an oncoming accident.
• If in an emergency or car accident, dial 15 on French lines or 112 on international phones
• ‘Constat Amiable’ (Friendly Declaration): If you were in an accident, you’ll fill out the ‘Constat Amiable’ form. At this time, it is advisable to call your insurance company to ensure that all information needed from the scene is obtained.  No matter the accident, make sure you have all names, vehicle registration numbers, insurance information, and contact information.
• For any injuries with any party involved, everyone must remain on the scene until the police arrive.

Before starting your French road trip, we recommend downloading the free app SOS autoroute . Thanks to geolocalisation, SOS autoroute will connect you quickly to the nearest security station to report an emergency or an unusual event.

We hope that this guide to driving in France as a tourist was useful to you. By now, we are sure you know the best tips for driving in France, and you are ready for your first trip to France by car. Bon voyage!

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Américaine in France

Tips for americans driving in france.

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning that if you click and make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read the full disclosure here .

Last Updated: June 30, 2023

Driving by car is a great way to explore France, travel on your own schedule, and see areas of the country that are harder to access by public transportation. As an American, you’ll find that driving in France is not all that different from driving in the United States.

Whether you are planning to drive in France in a rental car as a tourist or you’ve just moved here, it’s essential to take note of the rules of the road. Let’s look at some of the key differences and important road signs so that you know what to expect when driving in France.

Table of Contents

Can you drive in France on a US license?

As a short-stay visitor, you can drive in France on your US driver’s license. It’s a good idea to bring an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) with you. This is simply a translation of your driving license. It is not valid on its own and must accompany your actual driving license. You can obtain one quickly, easily, and cheaply from your local American Automotive Association (AAA) .

If you’re in France for a longer stay, keep in mind that your American driver’s license is only valid on French territory for one year. You’ll need to consider exchanging your US driving permit for a French permit or going through the process of preparing for the French driving tests and applying for a license in your own right.

Can you rent a car in France with an American license?

You can rent a car in France with a US driver’s license. An IDP (see above) is not necessarily required. The rental agency can ask you to present an IDP, but they might not request it at all.

Each rental agency has their own terms and conditions for renting. Most car rental agencies in France impose a minimum age of 18 years (or more for certain vehicles) and at least one year (sometimes two years) of experience. Additionally, there are supplementary charges for younger drivers. Anyone below the age of 25 is generally considered a young driver.

While manual cars are very common throughout Europe, there are also options for automatic cars. The rental price for automatic cars is typically higher.

It’s beneficial to shop around when choosing a car rental agency. Compare costs as well as terms and conditions.

How is driving in France different from driving in the States?

Driving in France is not too different from driving in the United States and should be fairly manageable for an American to handle. Here are a few noteworthy differences to keep in mind before getting behind the wheel. This is based on what stood out to me!

Traffic Circles

While the United States is ruled by stop signs and traffic lights, France is primarily ruled by traffic circles. Known as un rond-point in French, roundabouts are super practical, allowing for a continuous flow of traffic.

In truth, you can go around as many times as you like in order to verify signage and make sure you head off in the right direction. If you’re traveling around more than half of the roundabout, keep to the left lane (if there is one). Keep your left turn signal on until you are ready to exit. A right turn signal will allow others to know that you are exiting. Be sure to check your blind spot on the right before leaving the rotary.

If you’re having a hard time visualizing what’s going on here, you’d definitely benefit from the 360º driving tours offered in the Tripiamo France Driving Guide . Sitting in the car during the tour will help you virtually experience and practice what it’s actually like going through a traffic circle in France.

Related: Gain the Confidence to Drive Anywhere With Tripiamo

Priorité à droite

Priorité à droite is a fundamental French driving rule that can cause confusion for foreigners and natives alike. The basic tenet of priorité à droite is that you must yield to cars entering from the right. In this way, even if you are driving along a main road, you might find a car suddenly pulling out in front of you from a minor road. This can be confusing (and dangerous!) for Americans who are used to having priority on a main road.

Related: 15+ Signs You’re an American Expat Living in France

Although priorité à droite is the default rule for determining who has the right of way, there are so many signs around France indicating when it is not in effect that one wonders why they didn’t just repeal this rule in its entirety.

At a rond-point , if we’re abiding to priorité à droite , those in the traffic circle are supposed to yield to those entering. Indeed, this is the case for perhaps the most frightening of all the French roundabouts… I’m speaking, of course, of the rotary around the Arc de Triomphe . However, most traffic circles throughout France these days have a cédez le passage sign for those entering to yield to those already in the roundabout. This will probably feel like common sense to you!

A yellow square (diamond) sign means that you have the right of way and priorité à droite does not apply. Many major routes will have signs like this. When you see that the yellow square has been crossed out, priorité à droite is back in force. This is frequently the case when entering a town or village.

Another indication that drivers on the main street have priority over minor streets is if you see a solid white line on the minor road. This signifies that the driver on the smaller road needs to stop, thereby yielding to the cars already on the main street.

Right on Red? Don’t even think about it!

As you roll to a stop at a traffic light, resist the urge to creep forward in preparation for making a right turn on red. Unlike in the States, this is not the default. Right on red is not allowed in France unless otherwise indicated.

Read more: Things You Can Do in the United States That You Can’t Do in France

Speed Limits

Take note that speed limits are indicated in kilometers per hour (kph), not miles per hour (mph) 😉

What I find most frustrating about driving in France is that the speed limit is not always displayed. Sometimes, you’ll simply encounter a sign indicating that a certain speed limit is no longer being imposed and you can return to the normal speed limit. It’s expected that you know what type of road you are driving on and the speed limits that are associated with that type of road.

This is not a big deal and certainly something you can get used to, but it can be a bit disconcerting when you’re unsure! I found that the GPS on my phone is often, but not always, accurate in displaying the speed limit. Keeping up with traffic can be a good rule of thumb as well.

It is rare to see police pulling cars over. Speed limits are most often enforced by radars. If you’re speeding, you’ll be sent the fine by mail. This is also the case if you are renting the car. Don’t worry—They’ll forward any fines along to you!

Types of Roads

Autoroutes in France are highways designated by the letter A followed by numbers. They are generally the most efficient route to take when driving for a long distance across the country. The speed limit is 130 kph but this decreases to 110 kph when it’s raining. There are often tolls ( péages ) to use these motorways which you can pay by credit card or cash.

When on an autoroute or other major motorway, you should drive on the right and pass on the left. If you are not actively passing someone, you should move over to the right lane. When there are more than two lanes, the slowest vehicles (like trucks) typically travel in the farthest right lane. In this case, you can travel in the middle lane.

Note: If you are driving in a middle lane and you see that the car behind you is flashing their lights, this could be signal that something is wrong with your car or you left a turn signal on, etc. However, what’s more likely is that they are giving you encouragement to drive a bit faster!! If you are going exactly the speed limit, consider yourself a slow moving vehicle and move over to the right lane.

Routes Nationales in France are designated by the letter N followed by numbers. Routes Départementales are designated by the letter D followed by numbers. Both are generally toll-free, yet larger and with higher speed limits than communal roads.

When in a town or rural area, communal roads can be quite narrow in some areas. It’s often necessary to pull off the road slightly in order to provide enough room for a car coming in the opposite direction to pass by.

Bonus! Driving Tips for Paris!

Notoriously busy, driving in Paris is not for the faint of heart. It can be a bit stressful, so if you can avoid it, I would strongly advise against driving in Paris. Public transportation in Paris is great and will probably get you where you’re going faster than taking a car.

However, sometimes it’s unavoidable, like if you’re renting a car to head out of the city for a day trip. Here are some tips for driving in the capital:

• Plan your route in advance and avoid major ronds-points if you can. Trust me, you won’t enjoy the Arc de Triomphe nearly as much if you’re driving around it in a car. 
• Most streets in Paris are limited to 30 kph.
• Be assertive! Just like in any large city, drivers can be a bit aggressive, so stand your ground (within reason!).
• Be wary of those on scooters! They don’t seem to follow any rules of the road.
• Keep an eye out for pedestrians and cyclists as well. While more reasonable than the rogue scooter, they can’t be fully trusted either.
• The first Sunday of the month, the Champs-Élysées and central Paris are reserved for pedestrians. See a map of all pedestrian zones in Paris here .
• When heading back to Paris, gas up outside of the city. Pumps in the city are hard to locate and very pricey. 
• Tapping bumpers when street parking in Paris is standard practice. (But don’t tell anyone I told you that.)
• Parking garages are often tucked away underground. While a more expensive option, this will save you time from trying to find a spot on the street as well as the hassle of parallel parking under pressure!
• For more info on parking fees and suggestions for parking apps, check out the City of Paris website .

Did this guide help you? Say thanks with a cup of coffee!

Have you ever driven in France? What advice might you offer to an American driving in France for the first time?

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8 thoughts on “ Tips for Americans Driving in France ”

Amazing tips, thank you!

Happy to help 🙂

I was just there and am still confused why cars behind were flashing their lights at me every now and then. Did they want to pass or expecte.to pull.more to the right? Because this happened on a major route with 3 lanes with me I’m the middle

Hi Joshua, Great question! If a car behind you is flashing their lights, they could be trying to signal to you that something is wrong with your car, like a tail light is out or you left a turn signal on, etc. What’s more likely though is that they are giving you encouragement to drive a bit faster! It’s been my experience that drivers in France tend to drive over the speed limit, especially if they’re familiar with the area and know that there aren’t any speed radars nearby. Thanks for reaching out. Hope you had a nice time here 🙂 Ellen

This is a very informative blog post/article. I was a little concerned about driving in France, but your post put me much more at ease. We are driving a rental car from Charles de Gaulle Airport to an AirBNB in Bagnolet, then driving to and from the Normandy D-Day beaches the next day (a Sunday) and returning the car to the airport the following morning and using public transportation for the rest of our trip. Do the “driving in Paris” cautions apply to driving between CDG and Bagnolet? Any advice about driving to/from Normandy?

FWIW, I’ve driven in several large US cities (LA, San Francisco, Washington DC) with which I wasn’t especially familiar, and have also driven in the metro São Paulo, Brazil area a few years ago. Thanks!

I’m so happy to hear that this post has put you more at ease. Thanks for letting me know, Stephan! Since you’ll be driving from CDG to Bagnolet, you will likely not be crossing into Paris proper which is designated by a ring road called Boulevard Périphérique. Outside of the ring road, you will be in greater Paris, in the suburbs. Many of the tips I mentioned still apply but overall, you’ll likely encounter much less congestion than if you were in central Paris. Sounds like you have plenty of experience driving in major cities, so I think you’ll manage well! I don’t have any specific tips for driving to/from Normandy. It’s a great area to visit with a car so that you can see everything you want to. Enjoy your trip! Ellen

Heading over in just a few days. Great information. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

So glad this was helpful. Have a great trip, Tom!

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What do you need to drive in France? Rules for travelling from the UK

Everything you need to know if you’re planning a road trip around l’hexagone, article bookmarked.

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There’s no doubt that plenty of people will be heading to France this year – in fact, it’s set to be the most visited country in the world by 2025, welcoming an estimated 93 million tourists.

From the sights of Paris to the beaches of Nice, the French have a truly enviable catalogue of destinations, whether it’s for city breaks , camping holidays or seaside getaways.

Its close proximity to the UK makes France an incredibly accessible destination for Britons, with many choosing to explore the country by car, a way that allows visitors to see more of what France has to offer.

While some may think of a driving holiday as much more simple than scanning websites, checking in for flights and going to airports, there are still some rules and regulations that Brits need be aware of when driving in France.

We’ve rounded up all the information you need to make sure your trip goes smoothly.

France entry rules and requirements

The main entry requirements to keep an eye on are those relating to Brexit . Anyone entering any of the Schengen Zone countries needs to possess a passport that was issued less than 10 years before the date on which you are entering the country ; it also needs to be valid for at least three months after the date on which you plan on leaving.

In addition, remember than you can only stay in Schengen countries for a period of 90 days without a visa.

You may also be asked for proof of accommodation, insurance for the trip, return or onwards tickets and proof that you have enough money for the duration of the stay (this stands at around €65 per day if staying in commercially provided accommodation, such as hotels ).

Read more on France travel :

• France travel guide: Everything you need to know
• How to do a family skiing holiday on the cheap
• Paris travel tips: Where to go and what to see

Driving in France

Many of the basic rules for driving in France – other than, cruicially, which side of the road to drive on – are similar to those in the UK . Drivers must be at least 18 years old and in possession of a valid driving licence, while you must also have insurance and vehicle documents (such as a V5) to hand. You do not need to carry an additional International Driving Permit.

The speed limit on motorways is also 80mph in France (68mph when it is raining), while limits on A and B roads were reduced to 50mph in 2018. Remember to give way to the right when at an intersection.

If driving a British car abroad (rather than renting one in France, for example), then you may need to display a white oval-shaped UK sticker on the rear of your vehicle (these replaced the white oval GB stickers in 2021). You must do so in the following cases:

• If your number plate has just numbers and letters with no flag or identifier;
• if your plate has a GB identifier with a union flag;
• if the plate has an EU flag;
• or if your licence plate displays an English, Scottish or Welsh flag.

There are several other driving-related regulations that may be unfamiliar to UK citizens. It is compulsory to carry a warning triangle and reflective jacket (which needs to be accessible without having to get out of the car). You should also carry headlight beam deflectors and spare bulbs for your lights.

You may also need an air pollution sticker, called a Crit’Air sticker . These categorise vehicles according to emissions and may restrict access to certain parts of cities such as Paris, Lyon and Grenoble. For example, some vehicles registered before 1997 may not be allowed to drive in Paris at all between 8am and 8pm on weekdays. More information on whether you need a sticker can be found on the French Ministry of Environment website .

Fines for speeding and not wearing a seatbelt are €135. The drink-driving limit in France is lower than that of the UK: 50mg per 100ml of blood compared to 80g in Britain.

Using phones and devices with your hands is forbidden, and any use of a device at all –even those with Bluetooth headsets or ear pieces – is against the law. It is also against the law to use a sat nav or radar detector that alerts drivers to upcoming speed cameras, with a potential fine of €1,500.

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The Crit'Air anti-pollution vehicle sticker

Inspiration

Reading time: 0 min Published on 15 March 2024, updated on 17 April 2024

In order to reduce CO2 emissions in France's major cities, the most environmentally damaging vehicles are now banned from driving in certain urban areas called Low Emission Mobility Zones (ZFE-m). Vehicles not registered in France must also display an ecological sticker called Crit'Air. Here is an overview of the regulations in force to ensure that you have a peaceful holiday.

What is the Crit'Air sticker?

The certificate is a round sticker that corresponds to a class of vehicle defined according to the emissions of atmospheric pollutants. There are 6 categories of certificates, each with a different colour, to encourage the least polluting vehicles. The Crit'Air sticker concerns all vehicles: private cars, two-wheelers, tricycles and quadricycles, light commercial vehicles and heavy vehicles including buses and coaches. Once acquired and affixed to the vehicle's windscreen, the sticker is valid for the entire life of the vehicle.

Which zones require a Crit'Air sticker?

The Crit'Air certificate is only compulsory in certain zones. In Paris, the sticker is compulsory within the perimeter of the A86 motorway from Monday to Friday, from 8am to 8pm, except on public holidays.

Several large cities have also set up low emission mobility zones. The agglomerations concerned are: Lyon, Aix-Marseille, Toulouse, Nice, Montpellier, Strasbourg, Grenoble, Rouen, Reims and Saint-Étienne. From 2025, all cities and agglomerations with more than 150,000 inhabitants will be required to introduce a Low Emission Mobility Zone.

What are the regulations in force?

Since 1 January 2023, all Crit'Air 5 vehicles or vehicles without a sticker have been subject to traffic restrictions in Low Emission Zones. In some cities, Crit'Air 4 vehicles are also affected. Several cities also offer passes to allow occasional drivers to visit the city centre a limited number of times during the year.

Here is a summary of the measures in force (or soon to be introduced) in each of France's 11 Low Emission Zones:

In Paris and Greater Paris, the ban on Crit'Air 3 cars will apply from 1 January 2025 at the latest (in addition to Crit'Air 4, 5 and non-classified vehicles already subject to restrictions).

In Lyon , Crit'Air 5 and non-classified private vehicles are now affected by the traffic restrictions. Crit'Air 4, 3 and 2 vehicles will be progressively restricted in 2024, 2025 and 2028.

In Marseille , Crit'Air 4 cars will be banned from 1 January 2024. Crit'Air 3 vehicles will no longer be allowed to circulate within the ZFE perimeter after 1 January 2025.

In Strasbourg , Crit'Air 5 and non-classified vehicles will be banned from driving within the ZFE-m perimeter. The traffic restrictions will apply from 1 January 2024 for Crit'Air 4 vehicles and from 1 January 2025 for Crit'Air 3 vehicles.

In Rouen , all vehicles displaying a Crit'Air 4, 5 or non-classified sticker have been banned from 1 September 2022. Tolerance is granted to motorised two-wheelers, tricycles and quadricycles until 31 August 2023. The ban is due to apply to Crit'Air 3 cars from 1 January 2025. In addition, additional traffic restrictions may apply during pollution peaks. Traffic restrictions will only apply in urban areas where pollutant thresholds are exceeded. The following cities, known as "vigilance territories", are therefore no longer subject to these new restrictions (Crit'Air 3).

In Toulouse , all Crit'Air 4, 5 and non-classified vehicles have been affected by the traffic restrictions since 1 January 2023. Crit'Air 3 cars will be able to continue driving after 2024.

- In Nice , Crit'Air 5 and non-classified passenger cars have been affected by the restrictions since 1 January 2023. However, Crit'Air 4 and Crit'Air 3 vehicles will be able to continue driving.

- In Montpellier , Crit'Air 5 and non-classified vehicles have been banned from 1 January 2023. However, Crit'Air 4 and Crit'Air 3 vehicles will not be subject to these restrictions.

- In Grenoble , Crit'Air vehicles have been banned from driving in the Low Emission Zone since 7 July 2023. These restrictions will apply from 1 January 2024 for Crit'Air 4 cars and from 1 January 2025 for Crit'Air 4 cars, and are limited to certain hours (Monday to Friday, 7am to 7pm).

- In Reims , the ban applies to Crit'Air 4 and 5 vehicles from 1 January 2023. The restrictions do not apply to Crit'Air 3 vehicles.

For more information on the Low Emission Zones, travellers are invited to consult the government's website

How do I get a Crit'Air sticker?

French or foreign motorists can order the sticker online on the website of the Ministry of Ecological and Solidarity Transition (the only official site authorised to issue them, beware of scams! ): https://certificat-air.gouv.fr The cost is 3.70€ plus postage (3,11€ + 1,50€). The estimated delivery time is 5 to 10 days. Please note that offending vehicles will be fined 68€ for a private car and 135€ for a coach.

More information on the official website of the Crit'Air certificate : https://www.ecologique-solidaire.gouv.fr/certificats-qualite-lair-critair (available in English, German, Italian, Spanish).

• Click here to view the classification table for all vehicles

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