Driving in France

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.