Driving on the roads of France is an experience that many Europeans enjoy, whether on holiday or on their way to other destinations. However, for those who do so with a vehicle with foreign plates, it is crucial to be aware of French traffic regulations and the associated penalties. The laws are strict and, thanks to the cross-border agreements of the European Union, a fine in France can follow you back to your country of origin. Below we explain everything you need to know to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Basic traffic rules for foreign drivers
France has a well-regulated road system, but some rules may differ from those in other countries. Speed limits are a key point: in urban areas the maximum is 50 km/h, although in residential areas without pavements it can be as low as 30 km/h. On secondary roads the general speed limit is 80 km/h, and on motorways 130 km/h (110 km/h on rainy days). Novice drivers (with less than 3 years’ experience) are limited to 110 km/h on motorways.
Low Emission Zones (ZFE) are increasingly common in large cities such as Paris, Lyon and Marseille. From January 2025, vehicles with a Crit’Air 3 environmental label will be banned from the Greater Paris area. To enter a French city by car you need a Crit’Air environmental label displayed on the windscreen; without it the fine is €68.
Drink driving is strictly controlled: the limit is 0.5 g/l of blood (approximately a small glass of wine), and this is reduced to 0.2 g/l for novice drivers. It is also important to know what compulsory equipment you must carry in the vehicle: a reflective vest and warning triangle are essential and not carrying them can cost you €135 if you are stopped.
Most common fines in France for vehicles with foreign number plates
Foreign drivers are not exempt from speed camera checks and the French police. Speeding is the most frequent offence: automatic speed cameras, including average speed cameras (radars tronçon), capture foreign number plates without any problem. Fines for speeding vary according to the excess: from €68 to €1,500 and possible immobilisation of the vehicle if the speed limit is exceeded by more than 50 km/h.
Parking incorrectly is a common offence, especially in cities. In Paris, leaving your car in a no-parking zone can cost you up to €135. Failure to pay a toll on French motorways is also a reason for foreign vehicles to be penalised. The cameras register your licence plate and the fine arrives by post at your home address. It is important to plan your route well to know if you are going to be driving on toll motorways.
Other common offences include using a mobile phone while driving (€135 and possible licence withdrawal) or not respecting the priority to the right (priorité à droite), a rule that may surprise drivers from countries where it does not apply. This rule gives preference to vehicles coming from the right at unmarked crossroads, unless a yellow diamond indicates otherwise.
What happens when you are fined with a foreign licence plate?
Committing an offence abroad does not exempt you from responsibility. Since the entry into force of EU Directive 2015/413, France shares data with your country and the fine will be sent to your home address, usually in your language. For example, if you are photographed by a speed camera, you will receive a letter (avis de contravention) with a period of 45 days to pay (60 days if you pay online). The amount can be reduced if you pay within the first 15 days, but if you delay you will have to pay a higher amount.
The National Agency for the Automated Processing of Offences (ANTAI) manages fine notifications abroad. Identifying the driver of the vehicle is mandatory in some cases; if the driver is not identified, the penalty falls on the owner of the vehicle and the amount may be higher.
Practical advice for driving in France
Preparation is key. Make sure your driving licence is valid and carry the vehicle documents (insurance and technical specifications). Check that your car meets all the requirements: tyres in good condition and lights working, as driving with faults can cost up to €1,500. Learn signs such as Cédez le passage (give way) and beware of speed cameras disguised as unmarked cars.
To pay tolls or immediate fines it is advisable to carry cash or a credit card, as not all toll booths accept contactless payments from foreign bank accounts. If you are going to enter a ZFE city, be sure to apply for your Crit’Air vignette online in advance (€3.11 plus shipping).
In short, driving in France with foreign number plates is easy if you know the traffic regulations and plan your trip in advance. Respecting speed limits, carrying the obligatory equipment and understanding the penalty system will allow you to enjoy the castles of the Loire or the beaches of the Côte d’Azur without worries. Have a good trip and drive carefully!