AutoviaTest - Driving Test Preparation Platform

AutoviaTest

Driving in France

Everything you need to know about driving rules and laws in France

Start practicing free Read the 10 topics

Quick facts

RightDriving side

km/hSpeed unit

Topics

Speed limits
Limits
In France: Motorways 130 km/h (110 km/h in rain), Dual carriageways 110 km/h (100 km/h in rain), Rural roads 80 km/h, Urban areas 50 km/h.
130km/hMotorwaysRead more
Alcohol limits
Limits
France BAC limit: 0.5 g/L (0.25 mg/L breath) for most drivers. New drivers (< 3 years) and learners: 0.2 g/L. Heavy penalties including license suspension and fines up to €4,500.
0.5g/LMost driversRead more
Driving age
Limits
In France: 18 years for standard car license, 17 with "Conduite Accompagnee" (accompanied driving). Mopeds from 14 years. Motorcycles: A1 from 16, A2 from 18.
18yearsCarsRead more
Turn rules
Road rules
France uses "priorite a droite" (priority to the right) at unmarked intersections. In cities, this rule is very important. Left turns yield to oncoming traffic. No right turn on red.
Read more
Roundabouts
Road rules
In France, yield to traffic already in the roundabout. Signal left when entering (optional but common), signal right when exiting. France has more roundabouts than any other country!
Read more
Parking rules
Fines and safety
In France, paid parking (stationnement payant) typically costs €1-4/hour in city centers. Parking fines range from €35 for expired meters to €135 for dangerous parking. Most cities have free parking on Sundays and after 19:00.
Read more
Seatbelt laws
Fines and safety
In France, seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Fine is €135 and 3 penalty points. Children under 10 must sit in the back with appropriate restraints. Babies must face rearward.
€135· 3 ptsNo seatbeltRead more
Mobile phone laws
Fines and safety
Using a handheld phone while driving in France results in a €135 fine and 3 penalty points. Hands-free devices including earpieces are banned - only Bluetooth speakers allowed.
€135· 3 ptsHandheld phoneRead more
Highway driving
Road rules
French motorways (autoroutes) have a 130 km/h limit (110 km/h in rain). Most are toll roads (péage). Speed cameras are common. Keep right except when overtaking.
Read more
Emergency procedures
Fines and safety
In France, call 112 (EU) or 15 (SAMU medical), 17 (police), 18 (fire). At accidents: P.A.S. rule - Protéger (protect), Alerter (alert), Secourir (rescue). Reflective vest mandatory.
112Emergency numberRead more