Guide to Driving in France

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Guide To Driving In France

Then it is wise you read this article. Unlike the UK roads, driving abroad comes with many different rules and regulations. Owning an EU drivers licence doesn’t automatically mean that you are safe in the knowledge of the rules of their roads. Here is a break down of their common do’s and don’t’s.

  • You can drive in France from the age of 18
  • It is important to have your insurance details to hand
  • It is important to have your vehicle registration documents to hand
  • It is compulsory to have GB plates/stickers on your vehicle
  • It is compulsory to have a warning triangle in your car
  • It is compulsory to have head light adjustments fitted to your vehicle
  • It is compulsory to have breathalyser calibrated to the french 0.05% alcohol limit
  • Minimum age of children in the front seat is 10
  • The maximum motorway speed limit is 81 mph (130kph)
  • It is illegal to have safety camera devices, even if its part of a GPS system

It is very wise to plan your road trip to France in plenty of time. Not many people in the UK would have ever fitted head light adjusters, or even own a warning triangle. It is very important that you plan your trip and know the laws.

Driving In France |Toll Roads

France’s equivalent to our Motorways are called autoroutes. Albeit very rarely congested, unlike the UK roads, they do come at a price. They have tollgates that are payable by cash/credit card. It can become a very expensive way of travelling through France. However, if time is on your side, then you may want to consider France’s other options. France’s older roads that classically start with an N or RN are a realistic alternative to the expensive autoroutes. The routes can be as good and well maintained as some of the highways, and are clearly still maintained. Other routes that also cater without the tollroads are roads that start with a D.

Driving In France |Speed Limits

Speed limits in France are in KPH and not MPH. They also have variable limits dependent on weather. If the roads are wet, the speed limits can be reduced between 10-20% from the standard limits. With their toll roads exceeding the UK’s limit of 80mph. The built-up area speed limits are very similar to that of the UK. Speed regulations start when you pass the town sign, and then end when you pass the same sign (but crossed out in red) upon leaving the town.

.For more information on driving abroad check out this site http://www.gov.uk for more information.

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