Driving in France This Summer? Here's Everything You Need to Know

France is one of the most popular driving destinations for British families, and it's easy to see why. Long, scenic routes through rolling countryside, charming villages, and motorways that actually have decent service stations — the journey itself can be half the fun. But driving abroad does come with its own set of rules, requirements, and the occasional surprise. Get clued up before you go and the whole trip will go a lot more smoothly.

This guide covers everything you need to know before you hit the road: French driving laws, what documents to carry, what to keep in the car, and a handy pre-departure checklist to help your family leave home with confidence.

What You Need to Know About Driving in France

Drive on the Right

This one catches more people off guard than you'd think — even experienced drivers. In France, you drive on the right-hand side of the road, which means overtaking on the left. The moments where you're most likely to slip back into British autopilot are after a quiet roundabout or when pulling out of a car park, so stay alert at junctions and keep reminding yourself until it becomes second nature.

It's also worth adjusting your headlights before you travel. Standard UK headlights are angled to the left, which will dazzle oncoming drivers in France. Many modern cars have a simple dial or menu setting for this — check your manual or pop into a garage beforehand if you're unsure.

Speed Limits

Speed limits in France are clearly signed, but they differ from the UK — and from what you might remember from a previous trip, as they changed in 2018.

• Built-up areas: 50 km/h (approx. 31 mph)
• Outside built-up areas (single carriageway): 80 km/h (approx. 50 mph)
• Dual carriageways: 110 km/h (approx. 68 mph)
• Motorways (autoroutes): 130 km/h (approx. 81 mph)

One important note: when it's raining, motorway limits drop to 110 km/h and dual carriageways to 100 km/h. Speed cameras are common and can catch you in both directions, so it pays to stay within the limits.

Road Rules and Regulations

A few rules that differ from the UK and are worth knowing:

• Priorité à droite: On many unmarked roads, traffic coming from the right has priority. This can feel counterintuitive, especially in towns. Always look right before proceeding.
• Mobile phones: Hands-free use is only permitted if your phone is connected to your car's Bluetooth system. Holding your phone — even at a standstill — is illegal.
• Alcohol limits: The legal blood alcohol limit in France is 0.5 g/l (lower than the UK's 0.8 g/l in England and Wales). If you're driving, just keep it to nothing at all to be on the safe side.
• Emergency triangle and high-visibility vests: More on these in the in-car requirements section, but it's worth knowing they're not just recommended — they're legally required.

Tolls (Péages)

France has an extensive motorway network, and much of it is tolled. Costs can add up, particularly on longer routes, so it's wise to budget for them. Most toll booths accept cards, and many now have automated lanes. You can also get a télépéage transponder (like a Liber-t tag) if you're making multiple trips, but for a one-off summer holiday, paying at the booth is perfectly straightforward.

Plan your route in advance using Google Maps or Viamichelin, both of which can show estimated toll costs.

Low Emission Zones (ZFE)

France has introduced Zones à Faibles Émissions (ZFE) in many major cities, including Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. These zones restrict access for older, more polluting vehicles. Before you travel, check whether your car requires a Crit'Air vignette — a windscreen sticker that certifies your vehicle's emission level. You can order one from the official French government website (certificat-air.gouv.fr) for around €3.76, but allow a few weeks for delivery.

Even if you're not planning to visit a major city, it's worth checking your route. Some ZFEs extend beyond city centres.

Documents and ID Requirements

The paperwork side of things isn't complicated, but missing even one document at the border or during a roadside check can cause real headaches. Here's what to have ready:

• Valid passport for every person in the vehicle (including children). Note that British nationals can no longer use an EU ID card to enter France.
• Full valid driving licence — a provisional licence is not sufficient.
• Vehicle registration document (V5C). If you're driving a company car or hired vehicle, bring a letter of authorisation from the owner or company.
• Motor insurance certificate — your insurer should confirm your policy covers you in France. It's worth calling ahead to double-check the level of cover provided.
• GB sticker or number plate identifier — since Brexit, UK number plates with the Union flag are not sufficient on their own. You need a separate GB sticker if your plate doesn't display "UK" or you're driving an older vehicle. Technically, "UK" plates are now recognised in France, but a sticker won't hurt.

If you're renting a car in France, the hire company will usually provide the necessary vehicle documents — just confirm this when you book.

In-Car Requirements: What You Must Carry by Law

France has some specific in-car requirements that are legally enforceable:

• Warning triangle: Must be placed 30 metres behind your vehicle if you break down.
• High-visibility vest (one per person): Each person who exits the vehicle during a breakdown or emergency must wear one. Keep them in the car cabin — not the boot — so they're accessible without leaving the car.
• Breathalyser kit: Technically still required by law in France, although fines for not having one were suspended and have remained unenforced. That said, it's no great hassle to throw a two-pack in the glove box.
• First aid kit: Not legally required, but strongly recommended — especially for a family trip.
• Fire extinguisher: Not mandatory for private vehicles, but sensible to have.
• Spare bulb kit: Some French garages may not stock UK-specific bulbs. Worth packing.

Pre-Departure Checklist for Families Driving to France

Use this before you leave to make sure nothing gets left behind:

Documents

• Valid passports for all passengers
• Full driving licence
• V5C vehicle registration document (or letter of authorisation)
• Insurance certificate confirming cover in France
• Crit'Air vignette (if required for your vehicle)
• GB or UK sticker for the rear of your vehicle
• European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) for all passengers

Vehicle Checks

• Headlights adjusted for right-hand driving
• Tyres checked (tread depth and pressure)
• Oil, water, and windscreen wash topped up
• Brakes, wipers, and lights all working

In-Car Essentials

• Warning triangle
• High-visibility vests (one per passenger, accessible from within the cabin)
• Breathalyser kit
• First aid kit
• Spare bulb kit
• Phone mounted in a cradle (not hand-held)
• Sat nav or offline maps downloaded

Comfort and Practical Items

• Toll money or card easily accessible
• Snacks, drinks, and activities for children
• Travel sickness medication (if needed)
• Sunshade for rear windows
• Sunscreen (because you will use it)

Tips for a Smooth Family Road Trip

Even with everything ticked off your checklist, a long drive with kids requires a bit of extra planning. Here are a few things that genuinely make a difference:

Build in proper breaks. The French government recommends stopping every two hours on long journeys, and honestly, with children in tow, you'll probably need to stop more often anyway. Embrace the pit stops — a 20-minute run around a service area does wonders for everyone's mood.

Drive at the right time. If you're heading south in peak summer, try to avoid the main travel days — the first and last weekends of August are notoriously congested. Early morning starts (before 7am) can save you hours of motorway sitting.

Download offline maps. Mobile data can be patchy in rural areas. Download your route on Google Maps or Maps.me before you leave so you're never without directions.

Keep the essentials accessible. Toll money, snacks, passports for the border — make sure these aren't buried at the bottom of the boot under the paddling pool. A small bag in the front footwell works brilliantly.

Talk to the kids about driving on the right. Older children especially can help keep you accountable, particularly at roundabouts. Turn it into a game if you like — they'll feel involved and you'll get an extra set of reminders.