Driving Information France

Driving Licence Requirements

To drive a car in France, you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driving licence. For foreigners, an International Drivers License is highly recommended for picking up a car hire in any French city.

Age Restrictions

Generally, the minimum France age restriction for hiring a car is 21 years old, but can vary between car hire company and location. Maximum age limits apply in some locations; a young/senior driver surcharge may apply. Please check the Terms and Conditions when making an enquiry or booking.

Driving Distances

• Avignon to Marseille - 105 kms (1hr/10 mins)

• Biarritz to Bordeaux - 200 kms (2hrs/30 mins)

• Bordeaux to Toulouse - 245 kms (2hrs/40mins)

• Marseille to Nice - 205 kms (2hrs/15 mins)

• Paris to Calais - 287kms (3hours/17 mins)

Road Rules and Petrol Stations

General France driving information, laws, rules and regulations:

• Driving in France is done on the right-hand side of the road.

• Overtaking is on the left-hand side of the road.

• Seat belts are mandatory.

• The use of a mobile phone while driving in France is prohibited, with the exception of a hands-free system.

• Drivers are to carry a valid drivers licence, registration documents and insurance documents at all times while driving.

• Dipped headlights to be used at poor daylight visibility.

• In most major cities you will find that many petrol stations in France are open 24 hours. Fuel tends to cost more when you buy it at a station on the highway.

Tolls

The toll highways in France are labelled as 'Autoroute peage' and marked by blue signs with the letter 'A' before the number. Drivers take a ticket on entering the road and pay according to distance travelled. The current cost is about €1 per 10 miles.

Parking Information

Ticket machines are now quite common in many small towns. Most large cities have 'blue zones' where you display a France parking disc or ticket on the dashboard of your car when you park. These discs are available at police stations, tourist offices and some shops.

One-Way Car Hire

Domestic one-way rentals are unrestricted and free of charge within France, with the exception of Biarritz and the Isle of Corsica. There are fees for international one-way car rentals and not all vehicles are allowed.

We offer car hire in France at all major pick up locations together with a large car hire fleet. Book online today with Auto Europe and make the most of your trip with our special conditions in France.

Useful Links

France Airport Information

France Travel Information

Information on Driving in France