5 Changes to Driving in France for 2025 that Tourists Need to Know
Planning a spring break in France or embarking on a European road trip? Stay informed about the latest driving regulations in France. Aside from adjusting to driving on the right side of the road, it’s essential to be familiar with local road signs and carry mandatory safety equipment in your vehicle. As we step into 2025, there are significant changes taking place on the French roads that all motorists should be aware of before setting off on their journey.
Road tolls are on the rise in France. Travelers who have previously driven in France will be familiar with ‘péages’ (tolls) along the highways, and as of February 1, 2025, the toll rates have increased by 0.92%. Tolls are calculated per kilometer and may vary depending on the road. It’s crucial to note that using the contactless feature on your phone at toll booths is prohibited, as France strictly enforces laws against mobile phone use while driving. Additionally, some toll roads now offer flux-libre (free-flowing) lanes, where drivers can pass through without stopping and pay online or by phone within 72 hours.
Motorists traveling through the Alpes-Maritimes region in southeastern France should be cautious, as stricter penalties have been introduced for road offenses. Penalties for drink driving now include an eight-month suspension (up from six months), while refusing a breathalyzer test may result in an 11-month ban. It’s important to remember that the legal alcohol limit for driving in France is lower than in the UK, with 50mg of alcohol per 100mL compared to 80mg in England and Wales. Moreover, the region has increased the installation of speed cameras, so drivers should adhere to speed limits and disable speed camera detectors on their GPS devices.
In a move towards improving road safety, certain regions in France are reverting to a 90km/h speed limit on secondary roads, up from the previously enforced 80 km/h limit. Areas like Allier and central regions have already implemented this change. Visitors driving in France should pay close attention to speed limit signs, as speed restrictions can vary abruptly on local roads. Additionally, it’s worth noting that speed camera detectors are illegal in France, necessitating drivers to deactivate this feature on their navigational devices.
Electric vehicle (EV) drivers will find charging more cost-effective in France this spring, as electricity prices are expected to decrease by up to 14%. France already offers cheaper rates for EV charging compared to the UK, with French motorists paying approximately €0.54 (£0.45) per KwH, while Brits pay around €0.68 (£0.57) on average. These savings can significantly benefit EV drivers, especially during long journeys across the country.
Temporary border controls have been implemented in France from November 1, 2024, to April 1, 2025, with potential extensions into the summer. The increased border checks are aimed at enhancing security and are applicable to travelers entering the country from Spain, Italy, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, and Switzerland. Ensure you have your passport readily available if you are traveling through these checkpoints during your road trip.
Travelling by road allows exploration of lesser-known areas in France; however, understanding and adhering to the updated driving regulations is imperative. By staying informed about the recent changes to road laws, motorists can enjoy a safe and smooth driving experience during their travels. Whether it’s adjusting to toll increases, adhering to stricter penalties, or benefiting from cheaper EV charging, being prepared for these changes will help tourists navigate the French roads confidently. So, before you embark on your journey, familiarize yourself with the latest driving regulations in France and ensure a hassle-free road trip experience.