Driving in France - essential questions
Clear answers to the essential questions
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Driving in France – FAQs - the key questions people ask
1. Do I need a special driving licence in France?
No – most visitors can drive with their national licence; drivers with non-EU licences may need an IDP.2. What documents must I carry in the car?
Your licence, the vehicle registration document, and insurance certificate.3. What safety equipment is compulsory?
All cars must carry a warning triangle and a hi-vis vest accessible inside the car.4. Is there a minimum age for hiring a car in France?
It depends on the car hire firm, and varies from 18 to 23. Rates are higher for younger drivers.5. What are the rules of priority on roundabouts in France?
Unless otherwise indicated, traffic entering a roundabout must give way to traffic on it.6. What are the standard speed limits in France?
130 km/h on motorways, 110 km/h on dual carriageways (divided highways), 80 km/h (sometimes 90 km/h) on open roads, 50 km/h in built-up areas.7. Are mobile phones allowed while driving?
No – only bluetooth hands-free units, without headphones, are tolerated.8. Are there tolls to pay on French motorways?
Most French motorways are toll roads, but there are also toll-free sections and alternatives.9. Is fuel expensive in France?
Yes on motorways; cheaper at supermarkets or in towns.10. What about electric vehicle charging?
France is now well equipped in EV charging points; motorway fast-chargers usually cost more than town chargers.11. When is traffic worst?
Summer weekends, holiday departures, and major holiday periods.12. And what if I'm involved in a traffic accident?
If any person is hurt, you must stay with your car until police arrive. Otherwise, fill in a declaration.For more about driving, see ►: Driving - Driver's checklist - Rules of the road - HGVs (trucks)
About-France.com Home page - Site search - Regions - Maps of France
About-France.com Home page - Site search - Regions - Maps of France
Driving in France - maps
► South from Calais
-best routes to the south of France
► Real time map showing traffic congestion and hazards on French roads. Zoom in.
Route
maps showing hotels
► S
& SW: routes
via Rouen -
E5, E9, E11
►Southwest : A10 Tours - Bordeaux - E5
► Southeast : A26 via Reims - E17, E15
► East - West : E19 - E44 from Belgium
Routes avoiding
tolls:
Options
using no tolls or minimal tolls,
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A journey through deepest France, from the north to the south of France on scenic byroads
A journey through deepest France, from the north to the south of France on scenic byroads
Quiet country roads....
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