Traveling by car is the only way to access many rural French attractions, warns Frommer’s, so if you’re planning an in-depth visit, it’s something you need to consider. French drivers drive on the right, but be aware that some road rules, particularly those relating to rights-of-way, differ from those in the United States, so review the State Department’s advice on traffic safety before setting out. As is the case in many countries, it’s illegal to drive in France without wearing a seat belt, and while the legal minimum age to drive is 18, you may find that car rental companies impose higher age restrictions.
Paperwork
- You’ll need your U.S. driver’s license if you intend to drive during your stay in France. Legally, you don’t need any other documentation if you’ll be in France for fewer than 90 days, but the United States embassy in Paris strongly recommends either obtaining a French translation of the information on your license, or getting an International Driving Permit before you travel. You must apply for a French driver’s license once you've been in the country more than one year. Carry your passport with you when driving in France.
Equipment
- French law requires that you carry specific equipment in your car when driving in France, although if you rent a car the company should provide these. Three pieces of equipment are compulsory: a warning triangle, a reflective jacket which must be stored in the passenger compartment and put on if you leave the car in a breakdown situation, and, in the winter months, snow chains. As of 2013, drivers are technically required to carry a breathalyzer in the vehicle, but no enforcement provisions are in place.
Driving
- When you're on the road, stay in the right-hand lane, except when passing another vehicle, which should always be done on the left. Unless a sign indicates otherwise, you'll have right of way if you enter an intersection from the right, while on most traffic circles, vehicles already on the circle have priority over those entering it. If visibility is poor, use dipped headlights, and only sound your horn in an urban area if you are in immediate danger.
Speed Limits
- French speed limits vary depending on the road type and location. Wet weather also has an effect. Unless you see signs indicating otherwise, in urban areas you shouldn’t exceed 31 mph, while outside towns and villages the limit is 55 mph for standard roads. On motorways and divided highways the legal maximums are higher; 68 mph on urban motorways and divided highways with a median and 80 mph on freeways. In wet weather speed limits drop to 49 mph outside urban areas, 62 mph for divided highways and 68 mph on all motorways. Bear in mind that French road signs show speeds and distances in kilometers, not miles.
Restrictions
- French traffic law restricts drivers in several ways. Radar cameras capable of recording a car's speed are common on European roads, and are intended to catch drivers breaking the speed limit. Some satnavs and similar navigation devices are capable of indicating speed camera locations, but it's illegal to use this feature so make sure it's switched off, as the penalty in France is a fine of up to 1,500 euros. It is also illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol. Police may conduct a saliva test if they suspect you have been drinking and if your blood level is higher than 0.05 percent you could face a fine or even prison.
