Driving in France: Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors
Heading across the Channel this summer?
Whether you're taking a ferry or going via Eurotunnel instead, exploring France by car gives you so much freedom and flexibility. However, it's worth knowing that the driving experience will be different. Along with keeping to the right-hand side, drivers in France must abide to certain laws.
Before you hit the roads and start your holiday, it's worth getting familiar with our top tips for driving in France.
Documents and vehicle checks
It's very important to keep your driving licence with you when you're driving in France. If you're stopped by the police, they have the right to ask to see it. And being unable to show them on the spot could result in a fine, plus further fines if you then can't take it to a police station within five days.
France has also implemented low-emission zones in several cities. This environmental initiative requires all drivers not registered in France to affix the Crit'Air anti-pollution sticker onto their cars.
The sticker corresponds to the emissions class of your vehicle. Even if you're only passing through a low emission zone, you'll need to order one. And lastly, don't forget that you'll need the mandatory 'UK' sticker on the back of your car too.
Understanding road rules and signage
You'll typically drive on three types of roads in France. These are:
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- Highways, indicated by blue signs with white 'A' lettering
- National roads, with green signs and 'N' lettering
- Local roads, with white signs and 'D' or 'C' lettering
There are plenty of different road rules in France too. You should know that:
- The most prevalent rule is 'priorité à droite' or priority to the right. All drivers must give way to vehicles approaching from the right at junctions, unless otherwise indicated by specific signs.
- France uses the metric system for speed limits, meaning that any signs you see will indicate the limit in kilometres per hour, not miles per hour. Look at your dashboard closely and drive carefully.
Renting or using your own car
Another important decision to make before you start your travels is whether you'd like to take your own car or hire a private vehicle to use while you're away. Whichever you choose, just remember to choose appropriate car insurance that covers driving in France for the duration of your trip.
Many families choose to drive their own car, which comes with unmatched comfort and familiarity. There's no need to return the vehicle afterwards, but if you're not used to driving on the other side of the road, it could potentially be more stressful for you.
On the other hand, a hire car could give you more flexibility. It will be left-hand drive, which usually doesn't take long to get used to – however, some drivers find this a little bit confusing. Just remember that hire cars can send costs skywards too, especially if they're premium vehicles.
Packing the essentials
It's always worth packing essential safety supplies, bottles of water and long-life snacks on longer drives. But did you know that in France, you'll be required to carry certain items by law? These include:
- Reflective jackets
- Headlamp beam deflectors
- Warning triangle
- Snow chains for driving in 'snow zones'
- Helmets for motorcyclists (and passengers)
Navigating tolls
Finally, don't forget that French authorities often operate tolls at different borders and checkpoints across the country. There are various payment options at most, but it's always worth carrying cash (especially coins) just in case. Budget for tolls and plan your routes carefully.
Additionally, it's possible that your car could be searched at major crossing points. Don't worry if this happens. Just stay calm and cooperate with the staff helping you.
