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
Effective January 1, 2026
Before
Crit'Air 3 banned in Paris ZFE
Diesel pre-2011 and petrol pre-2006 vehicles banned from Greater Paris ZFE
After (2026)
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
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.
Environmental Zones
Effective January 1, 2026
Before
25 ZFE zones planned
Low emission zones expanding to 43 cities by 2025
After (2026)
Expansion paused, abolition debated
Parliament voted to abolish ZFEs in May 2025; decision pending. No new zones in 2026
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.
Safety Rules
Effective July 7, 2026
Before
Basic drowsiness warning only
Since July 2024, new cars required basic ADAS including AEB, ISA, and lane-keeping; drowsiness warning based on driving patterns
After (2026)
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
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.
Vehicle Equipment
Effective January 1, 2026
Before
Insurance recommended
Third-party insurance recommended but not always enforced
After (2026)
Insurance mandatory
All e-scooters require third-party liability insurance; riding without risks fine
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.
Safety Rules
Effective January 1, 2027
Before
Parking near crossings allowed
No specific national rule on parking distance from pedestrian crossings
After (2026)
5 meter minimum distance
Parking within 5 meters of any pedestrian crossing prohibited; €90 minimum fine
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.
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: January 15, 2026
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