Driving in France:
Essential Information for UK Drivers

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Driving in France offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the country’s scenic landscapes, charming villages, and bustling cities. However, there are several key differences and regulations UK drivers should be aware of to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

We’ve written this useful guide which lists out everything you need to know to prepare for your trip.

Driving in Europe checklist

This checklist will tell you all you need to know for your trip to Europe, from the key things to be aware of whilst driving, to what you need to take with you before you go.

What you need to take with you:

Required:

  1. UK driving licence (make sure it’s valid!)
  2. Passport
  3. UK sticker – unless your number plate says ‘UK’ with a Union flag. Since Brexit, a ‘GB with European stars’ is no longer valid.
  4. Reflective jackets, one for each passenger, accessible from inside the car
  5. Headlight deflector stickers (or adjust your headlights manually)
  6. First aid kit (required for France, Germany and Austria)
  7. Warning triangle
  8. Valid tax and MOT
  9. Crit’Air sticker for driving in France
  10. Other necessary vignettes if driving through other European countries.

Useful:

  1. Proof of insurance
  2. V5C vehicle registration document or VE103B
  3. European breakdown cover
  4. Travel insurance
  5. Replacement bulbs
  6. Torch
  7. Fire extinguisher
  8. Engine oil/coolant/water for top ups
  9. Blanket
  10. Sun cream
  11. Bottled water, snacks
  12. Entertainment if you have children
  13. Spare medication
  14. EHIC or GHIC

What you need to know to drive in Europe

1. Driving on the Right

One of the most significant changes for UK drivers is adjusting to driving on the right side of the road. This requires heightened awareness, especially when navigating roundabouts and making turns.

2. Speed Limits

Speed limits in France are strictly enforced and vary depending on the type of road and weather conditions:

      • Motorways (Autoroutes): 130 km/h (81 mph) in dry conditions, 110 km/h (68 mph) in wet conditions.

      • Dual Carriageways: 110 km/h (68 mph) in dry conditions, 100 km/h (62 mph) in wet conditions.

      • Main Roads Outside Built-Up Areas: 80 km/h (50 mph).

      • Built-Up Areas: 50 km/h (31 mph).

    Note that speed limits can be lower in certain areas, so always pay attention to signage.

    white car driving up a French street

    3. Tolls

    Many French motorways are toll roads. Toll charges can be paid using credit cards, cash, or automated systems such as the “Télépéage” badge, which allows for contactless payment and can be a convenient option for frequent travelers.

    4. Roundabouts

    At roundabouts, vehicles already circulating have the right of way. This is the opposite of the UK, where entering vehicles generally have priority. Remember to give way to traffic coming from your left.

    5. Traffic Lights

    French traffic lights differ from those in the UK in a few key ways:

      • Positioning: Traffic lights in France are typically positioned at the side of the road rather than overhead or in the middle. Make sure to look to the right-hand side when approaching a junction.

      • No Amber After Red: Unlike in the UK, French traffic lights do not show an amber light after red. The sequence goes directly from red to green.

      • Flashing Amber Lights: A flashing amber light indicates caution, and you must proceed with care but may continue if the way is clear. This is often seen at pedestrian crossings.

      • Right Turn on Red: In some intersections, a small arrow sign may indicate that right turns on red are permitted, but drivers must yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.

    6. Required Equipment

    French law mandates that drivers carry certain items in their vehicles at all times:

      • A reflective vest

      • A warning triangle

      • Headlamp beam deflectors (for driving a UK-registered vehicle)

      • A breathalyser (recommended but not strictly enforced)

      • Spare bulbs for headlights and indicators

    Ensure your car is equipped with these items to avoid fines.

    7. Alcohol Limits

    The legal blood alcohol limit in France is lower than in the UK:

      • General drivers: 0.05% (50 mg per 100 ml of blood)

      • Bus and coach drivers: 0.02% (20 mg per 100 ml of blood)

    Given the stringent limits and severe penalties, it’s best to avoid drinking alcohol if you plan to drive.

    8. Documentation

    Always carry the following documents when driving in France:

      • A valid UK driving licence

      • Vehicle registration document (V5C)

      • Proof of insurance

      • Passport or national ID card

    9. Low Emission Zones

    Certain cities, such as Paris, Lyon, and Grenoble, have low emission zones (ZCR/ZFE) where vehicles must display a Crit’Air vignette, which indicates their emission levels. These can be ordered online in advance.

    10. Traffic Signs

    Familiarize yourself with common French traffic signs, as they may differ from those in the UK. Key signs to recognize include:

      • Stop: A red octagon with “STOP” written in white.

      • Yield: An inverted triangle with a red border and “Cédez le passage” written inside.

      • No Entry: A red circle with a horizontal white bar.

    11. Fuel

    Unleaded petrol (Sans Plomb 95 or 98), diesel (Gazole), and LPG are widely available. Be aware that fuel prices can vary, and some rural areas may have fewer filling stations.

    12. Motorway Services

    Service stations (Aires) on French motorways are typically well-equipped, offering fuel, food, rest areas, and sometimes even showers. Some smaller aires de repos may only have picnic areas and basic facilities.

    13. Parking

    Parking rules can be strict, particularly in urban areas. Look for color-coded zones and pay-and-display machines. Illegally parked vehicles can be towed, so always park in designated areas and check local regulations.

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