Good to know - Driving in France
Are you a UK Motorist planning to drive in France?
It is a legal requirement you carry:
• A full and valid UK driving license - both the photo card and paper counterpart
• A GB sticker clearly displayed on the back of your car - unless your car has 'Euro-plates' (number plates that show the European circle of 12 stars on a blue background).
• Your motor insurance certificate.
• Headlamp converters (stickers placed on the headlights of left-hand drive cars when driving on the right, to prevent lights dazzling motorists coming the other way)
• A warning triangle and reflective vest for use if you break down or have to pull over to change a wheel or deal with any other problem. The reflective vest must be kept inside the vehicle (not in the boot) so you can reach it without exiting the vehicle.
• As from 1 July 2012 all drivers visiting France are required to carry a breathalyser in their car. The rules apply to anyone travelling to or through France by car regardless of the length of visit.
It is recommended you carry:
• Spare bulbs for your car's external lights
• A fire extinguisher
• A first aid kit
Essential Information
• The minimum age for driving in France is 18
• Seatbelts must be worn at all times (this applies to everyone in the car)
• A crash helmet must be worn when riding a motorcycle
• Remember to drive on the right-hand side of the road and you may have to give priority to traffic coming from the right.
Speed limits on French Roads
• Normal Conditions
Motorways: 130kph
Towns: 50kph
Major roads: 110kph
• Wet Conditions
Motorways: 110kph
Major roads: 90kph
All necessary information is available on the French Government website.
