France 2026 Driving Rule Changes
Official Source: Sécurité Routière
Last Updated: January 15, 2026
Summary
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.
Key Changes
ZFE Crit'Air 3 Exemption Extended
Effective January 1, 2026
Crit'Air 3 banned in Paris ZFE
Diesel pre-2011 and petrol pre-2006 vehicles banned from Greater Paris ZFE
Exemption extended to end of 2026
Crit'Air 3 vehicles can use 24-day ZFE pass plus weekends/holidays (139 days/year total) until December 2026
Official Source: Métropole du Grand Paris
Instructor's Tip
“The Paris ZFE rules have been relaxed for 2026. If you have a Crit'Air 3 vehicle (diesel pre-2011 or petrol pre-2006), you can still drive in the zone using the 24-day pass system. But this is temporary - plan for a cleaner vehicle.”
ZFE Future Uncertain - Possible Abolition
Effective January 1, 2026
25 ZFE zones planned
Low emission zones expanding to 43 cities by 2025
Expansion paused, abolition debated
Parliament voted to abolish ZFEs in May 2025; decision pending. No new zones in 2026
Official Source: Service Public
Instructor's Tip
“The future of French ZFEs is uncertain. Parliament voted to abolish them but it's not yet law. Paris and Lyon will likely keep their zones regardless. Always check current rules before driving in any French city.”
Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (EU GSR2 Phase 3)
Effective July 7, 2026
Basic drowsiness warning only
Since July 2024, new cars required basic ADAS including AEB, ISA, and lane-keeping; drowsiness warning based on driving patterns
Camera-based distraction monitoring
All new cars must have Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (ADDW) with camera to detect phone use, looking away, or other distractions
Official Source: EU General Safety Regulation
Instructor's Tip
“GSR2 Phase 3 from July 2026 adds camera-based monitoring that detects if you're distracted. AEB, ISA, and lane-keeping were already mandatory from July 2024. Know the difference for your code exam.”
Changes by Category
🔧Vehicle Equipment(1)
E-Scooter Insurance Mandatory
Effective January 1, 2026
Insurance recommended
Third-party insurance recommended but not always enforced
Insurance mandatory
All e-scooters require third-party liability insurance; riding without risks fine
Official Source: Sécurité Routière Trottinettes
🛡️Safety Rules(2)
Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (EU GSR2 Phase 3)
Effective July 7, 2026
Basic drowsiness warning only
Since July 2024, new cars required basic ADAS including AEB, ISA, and lane-keeping; drowsiness warning based on driving patterns
Camera-based distraction monitoring
All new cars must have Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (ADDW) with camera to detect phone use, looking away, or other distractions
Official Source: EU General Safety Regulation
No Parking Within 5m of Pedestrian Crossings
Effective January 1, 2027
Parking near crossings allowed
No specific national rule on parking distance from pedestrian crossings
5 meter minimum distance
Parking within 5 meters of any pedestrian crossing prohibited; €90 minimum fine
Official Source: LOM Law - Article 52
🌱Environmental Zones(2)
ZFE Crit'Air 3 Exemption Extended
Effective January 1, 2026
Crit'Air 3 banned in Paris ZFE
Diesel pre-2011 and petrol pre-2006 vehicles banned from Greater Paris ZFE
Exemption extended to end of 2026
Crit'Air 3 vehicles can use 24-day ZFE pass plus weekends/holidays (139 days/year total) until December 2026
Official Source: Métropole du Grand Paris
ZFE Future Uncertain - Possible Abolition
Effective January 1, 2026
25 ZFE zones planned
Low emission zones expanding to 43 cities by 2025
Expansion paused, abolition debated
Parliament voted to abolish ZFEs in May 2025; decision pending. No new zones in 2026
Official Source: Service Public
Instructor Tips
Re: ZFE Crit'Air 3 Exemption Extended
Instructor's Tip
“The Paris ZFE rules have been relaxed for 2026. If you have a Crit'Air 3 vehicle (diesel pre-2011 or petrol pre-2006), you can still drive in the zone using the 24-day pass system. But this is temporary - plan for a cleaner vehicle.”
Re: ZFE Future Uncertain - Possible Abolition
Instructor's Tip
“The future of French ZFEs is uncertain. Parliament voted to abolish them but it's not yet law. Paris and Lyon will likely keep their zones regardless. Always check current rules before driving in any French city.”
Re: Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (EU GSR2 Phase 3)
Instructor's Tip
“GSR2 Phase 3 from July 2026 adds camera-based monitoring that detects if you're distracted. AEB, ISA, and lane-keeping were already mandatory from July 2024. Know the difference for your code exam.”
Re: E-Scooter Insurance Mandatory
Instructor's Tip
“E-scooter insurance has been required since 2019 but enforcement is stricter now. Your home insurance may cover it, but check with your insurer. Rental scooters include insurance in the rental fee.”
Re: No Parking Within 5m of Pedestrian Crossings
Instructor's Tip
“This rule comes into effect January 2027, but learn it now for your test. Parking too close to crossings blocks visibility for both drivers and pedestrians. The 5-meter rule improves safety significantly.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still drive my Crit'Air 3 vehicle in Paris in 2026?
Are French ZFE zones being abolished?
Do I still need a Crit'Air sticker to drive in France?
What new safety features are required in French cars from 2026?
Sources & Methodology
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: 2026-01-15
Primary Sources:
- Sécurité Routière — Official regulatory body
- Métropole du Grand Paris — ZFE Crit'Air 3 Exemption Extended
- Service Public — ZFE Future Uncertain - Possible Abolition
- EU General Safety Regulation — Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (EU GSR2 Phase 3)
Partner link – opens GetYourGuide.com
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