Can foreigners drive in France? This must be your first question, right?
First thing first, your answer is yes.
After all, driving in a foreign country can be daunting, especially when faced with unfamiliar traffic signs and customs.
But fear not!
This guide will equip you with everything you need to know about.
From must-have documents to navigating roundabouts, we’ll cover it all. So you can have a smooth and safe journey all the way.
Keep reading to find out.
Key Takeaways:
Get an International Driving Permit (IDP) and be familiar with French traffic laws.
Download maps or use GPS for navigation, especially in rural areas.
Pay attention to speed limits and road signs.
Be prepared for tolls on highways and pack an emergency kit.
Overview of Driving in France as a Tourist
France has a variety of transportation options for its tourists. But as an explorer and road warrior, you also have the option to drive by yourself.
Here are some of the important things you will need and have to do:
Aspects | What You Need | What to Do |
Documentation | International Driving Permit (IDP), Valid Driver’s License, Passport, and Insurance | Obtain IDP in your home country, ensure all documents are up-to-date |
Essentials | Maps/GPS, Emergency Kit, Reflective Vest, Headlamp Converters (if not built-in) | Pack these items in your car |
Knowledge | French Traffic Laws, Road Signs, and Roundabout Rules | Familiarize yourself with these before your trip |
Rental Car | Consider size & security for your needs, Choose automatic or manual transmission | Research and book a car in advance |
Now, letโs get into the details of what you need to drive in France as a tourist:
Planning Your Trip
France also has a self-driving facility for its tourists. Before you hit the road, first, you have to learn Franceโs driving rules and regulations. If you are coming from the USA or other countries, there are some common requirements that you need to follow to drive in France.
Essential Documents
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a translation of your driver’s license for foreign authorities, required for driving in France with a US license; Americans can apply through AAA, and it is generally valid for one year.
To drive through the beautiful countryside of France, make sure to have your essential documents. That is, pack your passport as your official ID. Plus, as a foreigner, consider getting an IDP for your driver’s license.
Next, take the Certificate of Motor Insurance to cover any unforeseen incidents and Vehicle Registration documents from the car rental companies.
Other Essentials You Need (Maps, GPS, Emergency Kit, Driving License)
Beyond the official documents, there are a few extras to carry. Download offline Google Maps or invest in a GPS for easy navigation, especially in rural areas.
While some rental cars come with GPS, if you don’t, then you can pay for them to get the GPS. It provides real-time data with voice guidance.
Pack a basic emergency kit with a first aid kit and any necessary medications.ย Also carry a flashlight, a reflective vest, and a warning triangle for roadside emergencies. Lastly, don’t forget to bring your driver’s license and passport with you.
French Rental Cars
Renting a car from reputable companies like Europcar, SIXT, Hertz, or Kayak is a great way to explore the city and countryside at your own pace, with both manual and automatic options. Ensure you have the necessary documents and note that the legal driving age in France is 18.
Related Post: Is It Easy to Rent a Car in France?
Special Note:
You can legally drive in France if you are 18 years old.
Learn the French Driving Rules and Regulations
A trip to Franceโs road is always a dream for travel enthusiasts. Before that, make sure to familiarize yourself with driving rules and regulations in France.
Driving | Regulations | Important Tips |
Speed Limits | For Autoroutes – 130 km/h | Be aware of speed cameras |
Alcohol Limits | 0.5 g/L (50 mg per 100 ml) of blood | Donโt drink and drive |
Seatbelts | Mandatory for all occupants | Ensure seatbelt use for everyone |
Mobile Phones | Hands-free required | Avoid using your phone while driving |
Highways | Tolls apply on most “autoroutes” | Have cash or credit card with a chip for tolls |
Now, read the following details for each driving factor on the table carefully for a smooth driving experience across France as a tourist.
Speed Limit Law: How to Pay A Speeding Ticket
France has a strict speed limit for cars, depending on the type of road.
Road Type | Speed Limit |
Motorway | 130 kph / 80 mph |
Dual carriageways | 110 kph / 70 mph |
Main roads outside urban areas (A & B roads) | 80โ90 kph / 50โ56 mph |
Main roads within urban areas | 50 kph / 31 mph |
If you exceed the speed limit in France, you’ll receive an “Avis de Contravention” ticket, which will be mailed to the address you provided to the rental car company. You must pay the fine within 45 days, with a discount available if paid within 15 days; late payments incur additional charges.
Understanding French Road Signs and Symbols
Being familiar with the road signs is about preparing yourself to navigate the road more conveniently. Such as the following:
- Blue indicates the motorways (autoroutes) and symbolizes โAโ
- Green indicates routes nationales (โNโ on the map).
- White signs indicate the local routes connecting villages and rural areas.
Other common signs are “Stop” (Arrรชt), “Yield” (Cรฉdez le passage), “No Entry” (Sens interdit), and the speed limit is displayed as (km/h).
Traffic Lights: No Right Turn on Red Light
First thing first, pay attention to traffic lights, it’s essential to know the traffic rules as a tourist. Though you are driving a rental car in France, their rules regarding traffic lights are a little bit different.
In France, you are not permitted to turn right at a red light, compared to several other countries, such as the US.
Be sure to wait until the traffic light turns green to turn right. However, you might see a separate green arrow specifically for right turns.
This practice will help to ensure pedestrian safety, smoother traffic flow, and avoid any fines on the road.
Navigating French Roads & Highways
Renting a car and driving it on your own can be scary, especially when you are a tourist in France.
Donโt worry, because once you familiarize yourself with French roads and highways, you can easily navigate the routes even if youโre alone with your car.

Understanding the French Road Network
- Autoroutes (A sign) are high-speed tolled highways, ideal for long journeys.
- National roads (N signs) are free, slower alternatives for the highway.
- Departmental roads (D signs) come in all sizes, from busy local routes to charming country lanes.
Highway Toll Roads (autoroutes) and Payment Methods
In France, highway toll roads, or autoroutes, are massive network systems that cover most of the country, and routes provide efficient travel between cities and regions. Toll fees vary as per distance traveled and type of vehicle.
โYou can pay for the tools through the manual lane (Pรฉage) to the cashier or the automatic lane or green arrows (Pรฉage Automatique) by yourself .โ
The toll Payment methods typically include cash, credit/debit cards, or electronic toll tags. So choose any of them at your convenience.
Highway Rest Stops and Gas Stations
In France, highway rest stops and gas stations are essential amenities for travelers. These rest stops, known as aires de repos, are strategically located along major highways.
Additionally, you will find gas stations within or adjacent to these rest areas, including convenience stores, and sometimes even electric car charging stations for your journey roughly every 20 kilometers or every 10-15 minutes.
Parking Rules in France
France has very strict driving rules, and not only that, parking in France, especially in the cities, can be a bit different than what you might be used to.

So, continue with us to learn more about the requirements for driving in France and the parking rules that you must follow.
Understanding Parking Signs and Regulations
French parking signs for you might seem complex at first, and it is also essential to avoid fines, so don’t fret! Here we have a quick breakdown:
- Blue Signs: Look for big blue signs with white Ps; which indicate a paid parking spot. There’ll be a meter or machine that will tell you the rate of parking and how long you can stay.
- White Signs: White signs with a red border indicate no parking. And if you see a red X it means no stopping at all. Whereas, a red rectangle with diagonal red lines means you don’t need to get out of the car.
- Other Signs: Signs like (interdit) sauf riverains indicate that the parking is allowed for residents only. Hence, pay close attention to parking signs and try to avoid fines.
Tips for Finding Parking in Cities and Towns
As a tourist, when you are driving in France, parking will be a big issue in your planning. Here are some tips on driving in France:
- Firstly, start by researching parking options online before arriving at your destination. Utilize smartphone apps to locate parking garages, and you will get lots of street parking.
- Another thing you can do is consider using park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts of larger cities. Some hotels have free parking options, so make sure to check that before you book the hotel.
During peak hours, expect parking to be more challenging, so plan accordingly.
Using Parking Apps and Services
France is a beautiful country to explore by car, but parking can be a challenge, especially in big cities like Paris, Lyon, or Nice. However, with parking apps like Flowbird & EasyPark, you can locate available parking with real-time data.
Apps provide you with services with parking rates, and thus you can reserve and pay for a space directly. It will be convenient but also time-saving if you reserve your parking before your arrival.
Emergency Information for Driving in France
Having emergency information on hand is crucial, especially when you are a tourist and drive by yourself.
If you’re having an unfortunate accident or face a medical issue on the road or anywhere else, knowing the local emergency numbers can ensure help as soon as possible.
What to Do in Case of an Accident or Breakdown?
First, ensure everyone is safe and use your hazard lights. Next up, get yourself out of the car, place a warning triangle behind your car, and wear a reflective jacket. So that, other vehicles can notice you and call the emergency number if needed.
Emergency Numbers and Assistance Services
Feeling safe on the road is important. Hence, keep these numbers handy for a stress-free journey.
- Dial 112 if you face a major accident or medical emergency.
- Local police can be reached if you dial 17.
Some Important Links to Official Websites for Further Information
Here are some official websites for further information in France:
- The Ministry of the Interior oversees emergency services like police and fire departments.
- Sรฉcuritรฉ Routiรจre is dedicated to road safety in France and might have information on what to do in a driving emergency.
- Service-Public.fr is the French government’s official public service website. If you need any specific information on driving emergencies (in French),) then search for the sites.
Recommended Apps for Navigation and Road Assistance
As a first-time traveler in France, the navigation apps will help you get real-time data regarding roads and traffic.
We have 2 app recommendations from our side that will precisely help you throughout your journey:
- Google Maps: This free app is a popular choice for navigation worldwide. It offers offline maps, turn-by-turn navigation, and live traffic updates.
- Waze: Waze is a community-based navigation app that will provide you with real-time traffic information, accident reports, and speed trap warnings.
Driving in French Cities vs. Countryside
French cities are full of their vibrant culture and historical beauty, along with the busy streets lined with amazing architecture.
In contrast, the countryside offers an amazing experience of vineyards, quaint villages, and lavender fields, and it will take you away to the natural peace.
Both landscapes will offer you distinct charms, from urban excitement to rural bliss.

- Traffic Density: High in cities, but sparse in the countryside.
- Road Size: Narrow and congested in cities, while wider and open in the countryside.
- Speed Limits: Lower and strictly enforced in cities, and higher with fewer controls in the countryside.
- Parking: Limited and expensive in cities, while abundant and often free in the countryside.
- Navigation: Complex with frequent turns in cities, and straightforward with clearer signage in the countryside.
- Road Condition: Often well-maintained but busy in cities, but varying conditions with fewer repairs in the countryside.
- Pedestrians: Numerous and unpredictable in cities, while rare encounters occur in the countryside.
- Local Driving Norms: Aggressive and assertive in cities, but relaxed and patient in the countryside.

France has seasonal variations, and thatโs the reason the weather may vary during your driving. Here are some seasonal considerations for a smooth road trip:
- Spring (March to May): Cities – Traffic can be moderate with pleasant weather; however, parking can be challenging as locals enjoy outdoor activities. Countryside – Roads are generally clear and scenic drives are enjoyable, but watch for tourists and occasional local events.
- Summer (June to August): Cities – High traffic congestion, especially in tourist hotspots; parking is difficult; and driving conditions can be stressful. Countryside – Roads are usually less crowded, though popular tourist destinations may see increased traffic; sunny weather enhances the driving experience.
- Autumn (September to November): Cities – Traffic may ease slightly after the summer rush; cooler weather makes driving more comfortable. Countryside – Beautiful foliage and less traffic make autumn a pleasant time for drives, with fewer tourists on the roads.
- Winter (December to February): Cities – Potential for snow and icy conditions; traffic can be slow due to weather and holiday congestion. Countryside – Roads in rural areas might be less maintained and icy; prepare for potential snow and fog, and be cautious of fewer services in remote areas.
Extra Note:
Double-check the weather forecasts and road conditions before setting off for driving.
Tips for Driving Across France for Tourists
For a smooth and stress-free driving experience in France, follow the below tips carefully:
- Consider timing and try to avoid rush hours. Stops evenly for rest and sightseeing the key attractions of your route.
- Obey traffic rules and speed limits. Always give priority to pedestrians at zebra crossings and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
- Learn some basic phrases so that you can interact with locals. Like; Bonjour (Hello / Good morning), Merci (Thank you), S’il vous plaรฎt (Please), and so on.
- Greet staff with “Bonjour” and wait to be seated at restaurants. Take your time, and always say “Merci” goodbye after taking service from them.
- Look for “Cรฉdez le passage” signs or yield lines before entering. Priority is typically given to vehicles already on the roundabout, so make sure to be extra cautious.
- Check the weather forecasts, if there are any diverse road and weather conditions. So you can adjust your driving techniques.
- Always equip your vehicle with the necessary kit.
Before driving as a tourist, you should learn more details about tips for driving in France.
Driving across France can be a thrilling experience, that offers breathtaking landscapes and cultural diversity. To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, here are seven dos and don’ts for you:

Some Must-Drive Routes Across France as a Tourist
France is a land of diverse landscapes, from rolling vineyards to dramatic mountains.
Letโs have a look at some iconic routes:
- La Route des Grandes Alpes: A 400-mile route from Lake Geneva to the French Riviera, showing Europe’s stunning mountain scenery.
- The Loire Valley Chรขteaux Route: A 280-kilometer road through the Loire Valley featuring castles like Chambord and Chenonceau, highlighting France’s history and architecture.
- The Cรดte d’Azur: A coastline route from Cannes to Monte Carlo, offering views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Alpes-Maritimes.
- The Lavender Route: A scenic drive through southern France with blooming lavender fields, charming villages, and vineyards.
Wrapping up
Driving in France as a tourist may seem daunting at first, but with the above-mentioned tips in mind, you can execute your trip in the beautiful French countryside.
In other words, you need to prepare yourself with a few things to make your journey memorable. Such as an International Driving Permit (IDP), understanding the local traffic laws, and preparing the right documents and essentials.
So you can live and enjoy every moment to the fullest.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it difficult for an American to drive in France?
Driving in France isn’t very difficult for Americans. You have to adjust to driving the right way and learn a few different traffic rules and road signs.
How much is it to rent a car in France?
The daily cost to rent a car in France can vary widely, from around $19 for a small car to over $80 for a full-size vehicle.
Can I rent a car in France with a US license?
Yes, you can rent a car in France with a valid US license, as long as it’s valid and you meet the requirements of the rental agency.
Is it easy to drive in France for the first time?
France can be easy for experienced drivers used to driving on the opposite side, but as a tourist, you have to adjust to new rules.
What are four facts you need to know in order to drive in France?
For driving in France, know you’ll be on the right side, have an IDP handy, respect priority signs, and watch for speed cameras.