Rules for driving in France
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Pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and motorists must comply with all the traffic regulations in force when using public roads. Failure to adhere to the highway code can lead to penalties ranging from a fine to imprisonment.
In France, traffic drives on the right.
It is mandatory for all passengers, in front and rear seats, to wear a seatbelt. Wearing a helmet is mandatory when riding a motorized two-wheeled vehicle.
The speed limits for light vehicles are
- 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas ;
- 90 km/h (56 mph) on non-urban roads;
- 130 km/h (81 mph) on motorways (110 km/h (68 mph) in wet weather).
Motorways usually require payment of a toll.
Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited. The use of hands-free kits is tolerated.
The driver’s blood alcohol content must be less than 0.5 g/l, and less than 0.2g/l for young drivers (holding a license for less than three years).