France extends ZFE (Low Emission Zone) exemptions through 2026 while debating their future, introduces mandatory safety systems for new vehicles, and prepares stricter parking rules near pedestrian crossings.
Environmental zones
Before
Crit'Air 3 banned in Paris ZFEDiesel pre-2011 and petrol pre-2006 vehicles banned from Greater Paris ZFE
After (2026)
Exemption extended to end of 2026Crit'Air 3 vehicles can use 24-day ZFE pass plus weekends/holidays (139 days/year total) until December 2026
Environmental zones
Before
25 ZFE zones plannedLow emission zones expanding to 43 cities by 2025
After (2026)
Expansion paused, abolition debatedParliament voted to abolish ZFEs in May 2025; decision pending. No new zones in 2026
Safety rules
Before
Basic drowsiness warning onlySince July 2024, new cars required basic ADAS including AEB, ISA, and lane-keeping; drowsiness warning based on driving patterns
After (2026)
Camera-based distraction monitoringAll new cars must have Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (ADDW) with camera to detect phone use, looking away, or other distractions
Vehicle equipment
Before
Insurance recommendedThird-party insurance recommended but not always enforced
After (2026)
Insurance mandatoryAll e-scooters require third-party liability insurance; riding without risks fine
Safety rules
Before
Parking near crossings allowedNo specific national rule on parking distance from pedestrian crossings
After (2026)
5 meter minimum distanceParking within 5 meters of any pedestrian crossing prohibited; €90 minimum fine
Yes, with limitations. The Greater Paris Metropolis extended exemptions for Crit'Air 3 vehicles through December 2026. You can use the 24-day ZFE pass plus drive freely on weekends and public holidays, totaling about 139 days per year. Check the ZFE-m website for current rules.
The French Parliament voted to abolish ZFEs in May 2025, but it's not yet law and faces legal challenges. The 25 existing zones remain in effect for now, and no new zones are being added in 2026. Paris and Lyon may keep their zones regardless of national law.
Yes. All vehicles driving in any ZFE must display a Crit'Air sticker, including foreign vehicles and those just passing through. Driving without a sticker in a ZFE zone means a €68 fine, plus additional penalties if your vehicle is too polluting for the zone.
From July 2026, all new cars must have Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (ADDW) - camera-based monitoring that detects if you're looking at your phone or away from the road. Basic systems like AEB, lane-keeping, and ISA were already mandatory from July 2024. This is EU GSR2 Phase 3.
All rule changes are sourced from official government transport agencies and legal publications. AutoviaTest is an independent educational platform and is not affiliated with any government agency. Rules may be subject to change before their effective dates.
Information last verified: 15 January 2026Everything you need to pass on your first attempt
