Want to drive through France with the wind blowing in your hairโmaybe even see the Eiffel Tower way off in the distance? Sounds awesome, right?
Hold on a second, though!
Before you speed off, are you nervous about those roundabouts in France? And can you read the French road signs?
If not, it might be a little tricky. But don’t worry, brave traveler!
Coming up next, we’ve got 17 super important tips to help you drive in France for the first time. This way, your trip will be amazing.
So, what are you waiting for? Get in your car, grab some bread, and let’s go!
Must-follow Tips for Driving in France for the First Time
So are you driving through France for the first time?
Well, it can indeed be a dream or adventure for many, especially from a tourist point of view; however, it can soon turn into a nightmare if you get fines and penalties from the French police. In this regard, you may think about whether is France safe to travel alone.
Well, thatโs where we are here to help you!
Just follow the below-mentioned tips to make your first-ever maiden voyage a truly memorable one:
1. Legal Requirements & Insurance Verification
Every country has its own driving rules, and France is no exception. They take their laws seriously! To get a license here, drivers have to pass a tough test.
For visitors like you, here’s what you MUST carry when driving in France –
- International driving license
- Your passport
- Vehicle registration
- Insurance certificate
Also, try to bring real copies (not pictures) of your important papers when driving in France. They might not accept digital ones.
Many visitors wonder if they need proof of car insurance. Yes, you definitely do!
Rental companies need it to cover any damage during your rental. So, before you hit the road, make sure to call your insurance company to see if your policy covers driving in France.
2. Essential Items & Documents to Carry When Driving
Now, let’s talk about paperwork. The ground rule: When it comes to first-time driving in France and renting a car, don’t leave home without your essential documents like passports, licenses, and so on.
Here is a checklist to follow for the best outcome –
- Valid driverโs license ensures the company that you are legally allowed to drive and that you have basic knowledge of traffic rules/driving laws.
- Passport is another official identification to verify your identity. These extra pieces of documentation help to confirm your identity along with verifying who you are.
- Regular and international driving licenses are preferred for international renters. Some car rental companies might have different restrictions depending on the country you are visiting.
N.B: Americans can drive in France by renting a car with a US license. For further details, visit the DMV.org website on driver’s licenses and other formal identification needed to rent a car.
3. Understand Traffic Rules within the City vs Highway
Traffic rules are formed from road laws, but they are more focused on practical guidelines for drivers, pedestrians, and other road users to ensure safety on the road.
Some of the basic rules include obeying traffic signals, yielding the right of way, using turn signals, prohibiting the use of mobile phones, following stop signs in France, and so on.
Here are a few extra things to keep in mind –
- You can experience heavy traffic in cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille during busy hours. So, try to skip the outing during the busy traffic hour.ย
- Be careful about the cyclists, though they have their lanes.
- Always keep rural road caution in mind. The roads are narrow and one-way sometimes. So be patient; you might need to wait to pass slow vehicles.
- You may encounter tractors and other farm equipment on the road, so slow down and give them space to pass.
- Wildlife can come across, especially at night time. So, be extra careful about the deer and other animals that can unexpectedly come across.
4. Rural Driving Norms
French cities might have their own traffic quirks, but venturing into the countryside introduces a whole new set of exceptional rules. So follow them to navigate well –
- Watch out for slow tractors. Try to be patient, keep a safe distance, and use passing lanes when available. Keep in mind that honking won’t help!
- Daytime headlights? Not everywhere, but many rural drivers use them as a courtesy signal on narrow roads. A quick flash from you can be a friendly wave!
- In smaller villages, traffic signs or markings might be missing. In these cases, the locals rule the road. Also, when unsure, let them go first.
- Rural parking can be a bit more relaxed than in city centers. However, try to be a good neighbor and don’t block driveways, farms, or traffic.ย
- A quick, short honk in rural areas can sometimes be used as a friendly greeting or a way to signal your presence on a blind corner. So, don’t be startled.
5. Speed Limits Awareness
Every road has its own speed type, from 30 km/hr to 130 km/hr based on the kind of vehicles (buses, trucks, etc.).
However, the speed limits can be reduced in some situations, such as rain, fog, or heavy traffic. Let’s have a look at the maximum speed that you will be allowed to drive to ensure a safe drive:
- Highway speed limit – 130 kilometer/hr or, 110 kilometer/hr (in wet weather)
- Most major road’s speed limit – 110 kilometer/hr o, 100 kilometers/hr (in wet weather)
- Roads outside Urban Areas/ Countryside roads speed limit โ 80 kilometer /hr or, 50 km/hr (in wet weather)
- Roads within Urban Area roads โ 50 kilometer/hr or 30 kilometer/hr (in wet weather)
Now, let’s talk speedโnot the romantic kind, but the one measured in kilometers per hour. France needs speed, but also restraint.
For instance, if the vehicle crosses the French speed limit, it gets ‘on-the-spotโ fines of about 135 euros. Plus, speed cameras are used as Traffic lights on the main roads.
- The green traffic light is used as a reward sign when a driver obeys the speed limit on the road.ย
- Red traffic lights detect those drivers who ignore the speed limit, with the lights being turned on. For any kind of update to the speed camera, you can use your navigation app.
Special Mention:
โ Green traffic light is used as a reward sign when a driver obeys the speed limit on the road.ย
โ Red traffic lights detect those drivers who ignore the speed limit, with the lights being turned on.
6. City and Highway Road Sign Familiarity
Knowing the road signs will make your drive smoother. However, the good news is most signs follow standard European styles, so they might look familiar if you’ve driven in other European countries.
Here are some common French road signs for you to remember –
- Avertissement (Sign of warning)
- Attention (Sign of caution)
- Danger (Sign of danger)
- Dรฉfense de stationner (Sign of no parking)
- Dรฉfense de passer (Sign of no entry)
- Fin de limitation (Sign for end of speed limit)
- Interdiction de tourner (Sign of no turn)
- Limitation de vitesse (Sign of speed limits)
7. Main Roads and Motorways in France
France designed the main roads as “N” roads or “Route Nationale”. But the motorways are called โAutoroutesโ with the letter “A”. So, make sure to keep them in mind and donโt get confused!
Since they have well-maintained roads and an extensive highway network, the driving part is quite convenient there. However, as a first-time driver abroad, you must learn some tips to make the journey smoother. Such as –
- The motorways or autoroutes are used for dual carriageways or divided highways with limited access and tolls and are quite expensive.
- “N” roads are generally free to use.
- Tolls are charged on almost all autoroutes โAโ (motorways). So, pay the toll amount at the toll booth at every entrance or exit point.
- Adhere to the posted speed limits. These limits can greatly vary, depending on the type of road and location. On โDโ routes, speed limits are often lower than on highways.
- You can pay the tolls by cash, credit card, or with mobile apps.
French roads have numbering systems, based on different territories, like A1, A3, A4, A5, A6, A10, A13, A14, and A15. Even though they are not frequently used.
8. The Right Side Rule in France Driving
It may sound pretty basic, but it’s the cardinal rule for a smooth ride. So, make sure to keep that in mind when making turns, navigating roundabouts, and overtaking.
And, if you are not used to the right side of the steering, then, the best is to start driving defensively until you get used to it.
Tourists from the USA can relate to American driving in France since they are somewhat habituated to driving on the right side of the steering wheel.
N.B – As per the right-side rule of driving in France, you will drive on the right side of the road and the cars will overtake on the left. Similarly, you can’t overtake from the left lane unless you are on a one-way street.
9. Roundabouts Etiquette
Roundabouts, known as “ronds-points” or “carrefours giratoires”, are the most common features in France that you will find almost everywhere.
You will even find clearly marked traffic circle road signs on many modern roundabouts in France and also in Paris while driving.
Additionally, in roundabout rules, France has a yield signโa standard practice to give way to any other vehicles already in the roundabout and only enter when your turn arrives.
10. Toll Roads Information
When you enter the toll area marked with the word โPรฉageโ. Tolls are very common and add up quickly for long-distance driving. In fact, they are faster than the time you can say “baguette.”
There are two types of tolls –
- Toll for passenger carsย
- Toll for heavy goods vehicles
Tolls can be paid by –
- Cash
- Electronic toll system
- Credit cards
- Heavy vehicles are mandatorily paid for only by electronic toll systems.
11. Use of Headlights
The use of headlights is recommended in driving laws by the government that all cars will be on the headlights at all times.
While in some places, flashing your lights might signal, “Watch out, I’m coming through!” here, it’s more of a polite gesture, like tipping your hat.
It says, “After you, dear driver.” So, shine on with a touch of Gallic courtesy, and let the roads become a shared canvas of mutual respect.
Using beam deflectors is another particular consideration for rerouting your headlights and stopping temporary blindness brought on by intense light oncoming motorists.
12. Parking Tips for City and Rural Areas
Some of the essential parking strategies and driving in France tips include –
- Parking-related road signs marked “P” indicate parking areas.
- “Panneau d’Interdiction de Stationner” signs indicate the prohibited parking area.
- Blue zone or blue sign area needs payment for your parking at the meters. Coins or credit cards are both accepted there and can also be paid through mobile apps.
- In residential zones, parking is permitted for residents. While-residents, they cannot park their vehicles in that zone.
- Underground parking garages are a much more convenient and secure option, but a bit expensive.
- The on-site parking for guests is offered by the hotels. So, make sure to have on-site parking before reserving the hotels.
- In the case of beaches and attractions, parking rules vary from place to place. Some may have free parking spots, while others may not.
13. French Gas Stations
Fueling considerations are always an emergency when you are planning for a road trip. After all, you certainly would not want to be in the middle of the road with no fuel or facilities at all.
A scary nightmare, indeed!
However, the good news is that you will always find gas stations with 24-hour access on major roads, highways, and urban areas.
But in rural areas, fuel stations may be less frequent along with limited operating hours. You can also get access to the concentration of charging stations for electric cars where you go in France.
And for the fuel prices, they can be slightly higher at toll service areas on autoroutes, so always try to refuel your vehicle at larger supermarkets or hypermarkets, as they often offer lower prices.
14. Emergency Numbers
Are you wondering about the emergency that can arrive in the middle of the road?
Lucky for you, as there are multiple emergency numbers available. All you have to do is memorize them or simply save them to your phone’s emergency services number.
- 15 – Medical Services (SAMU): Call 15 for any kind of help related to medical or health-related emergencies. This number will bring you directly to the French urgent medical service.
- 17 – French Police (Gendarmerie): If you want to report a crime such as physical violence, assault, mugging, or burglary, or maybe you are stuck in a dangerous situation and need immediate help from the police, then dial 17.ย ย
- 18 – Fire Department (Pompiers): If you see a fire or suspect another fire-related emergency, just dial 18. This connects you to the Pompiers, the French fire department, who will respond quickly to extinguish the flames and ensure everyone’s safety.
- 112 – European Emergency Number: France. In any emergency, you can dial 112 and reach emergency services who will connect you to the appropriate local response team.
15. Know the Drink-Driving Limit
Now, onto a serious note โ the drink-driving limit. In France, they take their wine seriously, but when it comes to driving, it’s a whole different story.
โA blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.05% is the legal limit for alcohol and driving in France. So, if you are caught drinking alcohol and driving on French roads with greater than 0.05%, as per drinking laws in France, you will be considered to be breaking the legal limit and thus can face penalties.โ
This limit applies to both tourists and citizens. Besides, drinking and driving can result in fines, license suspensions, and imprisonment, depending on the previous offenses as well.
16. Weather Awareness for the Best Driving Experience
As for the weather, you can consider them as your co-pilot.
Why? Well, France’s diverse climates mean rain in Brittany and sun on the Riviera.ย
In general, Tourists rent cars during the spring, summer, or fall months. However, if you want to rent cars in winter, then be careful, as the weather will be very snowy in the southern part.
Some seasonal road signs to watch out –
- Road closures and changes
- The speed limits
- Cars have to be fitted with snow tires
- Snow chains or studded tires.
17. Learn Some Basic French Signs
One of the major rules before driving on the road is to decode the language of French road signs and adhere to traffic rules. Otherwise, this lack of awareness of the road signs can prove to be dangerous for yourself and other people.
However, no need to feel scared, mate!
As all these road signs are pretty easy and with a few basic ideas, you will be all good to go:
- Stop sign in France – It basically means you have reached the STOP sign and you have to stop even if you donโt see any traffic around you.
- Prioritรฉ ร Droite – Understand the “Give Way to the Right” rule โ it is a unique French quirk that indicates priority to your right who are turning onto the road you are traveling on and moving in the same direction.
- Roundabouts – Get comfortable navigating the numerous roundabouts; they are a common feature on French roads.
- Yield sign – This sign means that you must yield to traffic that comes from the left and right.ย
- Pedestrian Crossings or Passage piรฉtons – It refers to the places where you have to stop until the pedestrians are not crossing the road. That is, they will simply walk away and the drivers must wait until the traffic has stopped.
- Radars – Always beware of speed cameras; French roads are equipped with radars. Besides, adhering to speed limits will save you from unexpected fines and penalties.
- Tolls – Highways often come with tolls, so try to keep some spare change in case of emergencies and, of course, to ensure a smooth passage.
- Fines and Penalties – In France, the driving offenses and penalties are the same for both foreign and French drivers. So, make sure to know about the French โCode de la Routeโ., unless you want one under your name.ย
- Courtesy Matters – A friendly nod or wave to express gratitude goes a long way with French drivers, adding a touch of politeness to your journey.
Renting a Car to Enhance Your Tourist Experience in Franceย
Usually, first-time tourists in France mainly focus on visiting romantic Paris, the iconic Eiffel Tower, and the French Riviera.
But forget about those several secret gems (Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Conques, Bonnieux, etc.) and explore new landscapes from a different perspective of the countryside.
This is where renting a car in France comes into play!
Because, with a rental car, you are not just a tourist, you are an adventurer weaving through the fabric of French life. And, nowadays, you will find numerous rental companies for cars with the options of:
- Manual cars
- Luxury automatic cars
- EV cars
- SUV cars
- Minivan
- Passenger van
Specific Requirements for Renting a Car
As mentioned earlier, it is pretty hard to drive in France because of their strict laws. However, by following some specific requirements for renting a car, you can definitely conduct a smooth road trip in France for the very first time.
They are as follows –
- Driver’s License – Firstly, you will need a valid driver’s license from your home country. If it’s not in French, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is advisable. Plus, remember to bring your passport and any required identification for verification.
- Age Requirement – It is a crucial factor, as most rental agencies require you to be at least 21 years old, but some might set the bar at 25, even though 18 years and older is the legal age to drive in France.
- Credit Cards – They are the preferred method of payment, so make sure to have a valid card along with sufficient funds for the security deposit. Who knows when they might come in handy!
- Insurance – It is a must-have for every driver out there, and it is also wise to check if your existing coverage extends to rental cars. If not, you may consider buying comprehensive coverage from the rental agency.ย
N.B – For any confusion regarding your age, go to the Discovercars.com platform to see the limitations of available rental cars and any additional charges.
Manual vs Automatic: Whatโs Commonly Available?
Traditionally, manual transmissions have been the dominant choice in France. This might leave some automatic-loving drivers feeling a little nervous. But many rental companies offer both options, so you can choose based on your comfort level.
Benefits of a Manual Transmission
- Manual cars tend to be slightly more fuel-efficient, saving you a few euros at the pumpโespecially important if you’re planning a long road trip through the French countryside.
- The selection of manual transmission cars might be wider, giving you a bit more flexibility when choosing your perfect French chariot.
Benefits of an Automatic Transmission
- Automatic transmissions are perfect for those who want a stress-free driving experience, especially in bustling city traffic. Hence, focus on admiring the charming French architecture, not on clutch control!
- Negotiating steep hills on narrow French roads can be a breeze with an automatic. No more worries about rolling back or stalling!
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your driving experience and priorities. If you’re comfortable with a manual transmission and want to potentially save a little cash, go for it!
However, if you prioritize a relaxed and scenic drive, especially in cities, an automatic might be your perfect match.
What to Check Before Accepting Your Rental Car?
Starting your “Route Nationale” with the wind in your hair, there’s a crucial pitstop you don’t want to miss: a thorough inspection of your rental car.ย
So here’s a checklist to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey –
- Double-check the rental agreement. Make sure it reflects the car type, mileage allowance, and any additional fees you agreed upon.
- Verify the fuel policy; full-to-full is common. Take note of the fuel gauge reading and ensure it matches the agreement.
- Give the car a good walkaround. And look for any existing scratches, dents, or dings.
- Check the tire pressure and tread depth. Properly inflated tires are essential for safety and fuel efficiency.
- Turn on all the lights (headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals) and ensure they’re functioning properly.
- Give the horn a quick test. You might not need it often, but it’s good to know it works in case of emergencies.
- Adjust the mirrors (side view and rear view) for optimal visibility. Also, don’t forget to adjust your seat and steering wheel for a comfortable driving position.
Common Tourist Mistakes and Tricks to Avoid Them
While roaming the charming French byways, you need to brush up on a few common tourist mistakes and how to avoid them:
Missing the Roundabout Reveal – French roundabouts prioritize traffic already circling. Hence, don’t be the hesitant newbie; yield to those on the roundabout and signal your intention to exit when needed.
Mistaking Autoroutes for Freeways – Those handy “A” roads are indeed highways, but they come with tolls. So, keep an eye out for toll booths (“pรฉage”) and have some euros handy (some accept credit cards too).
Parking Perplexion – City parking can be tricky. Therfore, look for blue zones with meters and designated parking lots, or download a parking app to navigate the options.
Stop Sign Surprise – French stop signs are octagonal, not the familiar red octagon. Hence, keep an extra eye out for these, especially at smaller intersections.
Right on Red Confusion – In France, you can’t turn right on red lights (like in North America) unless there’s a green arrow. So wait for a green light or green arrow to turn right safely.
Speeding Shenanigans – Speed limits are strictly enforced in France. Download a navigation app with speed limit warnings, or keep an eye out for posted limits to avoid hefty fines.
What Should You Do in Case of a Car Accident in France?
In case of a car accident in France, stay calm, secure the scene, call 112 for emergencies, and exchange information with the other driver(s) involved.
Then again, to protect yourself, here’s your savoir-faire for handling a car accident in France –
- When you have an accident with your rental car, then, your first and foremost task is to immediately contact your car-renting company and get instant help to claim your insurance.
- If you are getting injured and need medical help, then get in touch with your travel insurance company to cover your overall medical expenses.
- Call emergency number 112 and ask for an interpreter to translate your language to the opposite person.
- Do not hesitate to contact your consulate or embassy if you have any questions. They will help and provide the required support.
Even the most prepared road trip can encounter unexpected bumps. So for that, here are some key French phrases to navigate emergencies with confidence –
Seeking Help
- Au secours! (oh seh-coor) – Help!
- J’ai besoin d’aide! (zheh ay besoin de uhd) – I need help!
- Oรน se trouve l’hรดpital le plus proche? (oo seh troov loh-pee-tal luh pluh prosh) – Where is the nearest hospital?
Car Trouble
- J’ai un problรจme avec ma voiture. (jeh ay un problem avek mah vwah-tyoor) – I have a problem with my car.
- Ma voiture est tombรฉe en panne. (mah vwah-tyoor eht tom-bay ahn pahn) – My car broke down.
- Je ne peux pas dรฉmarrer ma voiture. (zhuh nuh puh deh-mah-rah mah vwah-tyoor) – I can’t start my car.
Police & Accidents
- Appelez la police, s’il vous plaรฎt. (ah-pel-lay lah poh-leece see voo play) – Call the police, please.
- J’ai eu un accident. (zheh ay ooh un ahk-see-don) – I had an accident.
- Quelqu’un est blessรฉ. (kel-kun eht blessay) – Someone is injured.
Understanding Instructions
- Parlez-vous anglais? (par-lay voo ahn-glay) – Do you speak English?
- Je ne comprends pas. (zhuh nuh kohm-prahn pah) – I don’t understand.
- Pouvez-vous rรฉpรฉter, s’il vous plaรฎt? (poo-vay voo reh-pay-tay see voo play) – Can you repeat that, please?
Vital Tips for Driving in Major French Cities
Navigating the bustling streets of major French cities is an adventure in itself.
Here are some bonus tips to make your drive through the City of Light (or any other charming metropolis) a total breeze –
- The speed limit is the must-have thing to focus on in urban areas. It is about 50 km/h near school zones and residential areas. Always be careful with the road signs and adjust your speed accordingly.
- Traffic congestion is a massive issue in major French cities, especially during rush hours. So, if you are driving at rush hour, make sure to take some extra time ahead of your journey.
- Be careful about pedestrians and cyclists because they always get priority. And, yes, donโt forget to yield to them.
- Parking in major cities like Paris is quite expensive to afford, but their major cities do have some good connectivity with public transportation. So, the better option is to opt for public transport rather than private cars.
- Oh, and don’t forget the golden rule: weekdays are for work, weekends are for wandering. Traffic tends to be lighter on Saturdays and Sundays, making your city exploration a leisurely affair.ย
What are the Specific Rules for Driving in Paris?
Some general rules for driving in France are exits. But Paris โ the city of love, lights, and a symphony of honking horns, do have some specific rules for driving to ensure a smooth ride. Such as the following –
- The “Crit’Air” sticker is for cars or vehicles with low emissions. In fact, Paris established environmental zones called “Zones ร Circulation Restreinte” (ZCR). To enter that zone, your vehicle needs a Crit’Air sticker.
- In Paris, you have to pay for parking, especially in the city center area. Moreover, you get paid parking, but that comes with a high price tag.
- Bus lanes are reserved for buses and taxis, with strict laws of not allowing motorcycles to enter on that road.
- There are a lot of one-way streets. So, make sure to pay attention and drive in the correct direction.
Concluding Words
Sun-drenched French countryside, windows down, wind in your hair… sounds incredible, right?
But before anything, donโt forget to follow this guide for the top 18 must-know tips for first-time drivers in France.
Mastering these will make your trip smooth sailing – filled with amazing memories and the magic that only France can offer.
Bon voyage!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it stressful to drive in France?
Driving in France can be stressful because of laws and regulations. So, make sure to follow them accordingly.
How do I prepare my car for driving in France?
Safety equipment, Documents, Headlight deflectors, and fuels.
What is driving etiquette in France?
Driving etiquette is to obey speed limits, yield to the right, and prioritize safety and consideration when driving.
Can you use a US driver’s license in France?
Yes, US drivers can use their license in France but need to carry an International Driving license as well.
What side of the road do French drivers drive on?
They always drive on the right side of the road.
Do I need an International Driving Permit for France?
Of course, you need an international driving permit for France.