Can cyclists be fined for speeding in France?
Like motorists and motorcyclist, cyclists must obey the rules of the road
The risk of injury is eight times higher on a bicycle than in a car and 20 times higher than on foot
Gautier Normand/Shutterstock.
Cyclists in France are subject to many of the same road rules as motorists and can face fines for offences including speeding, running red lights, using a mobile phone while riding and cycling under the influence of alcohol.
Breaking these rules can have serious consequences. According to Sécurité Routière, the risk of injury is eight times higher on a bicycle than in a car and 20 times higher than on foot.
Cyclists were also among the road users most affected by rising numbers of deaths and serious injuries in 2025.
Speeding
Cyclists caught exceeding the speed limit face a €35 fine.
Article R413-16 of the French Highway Code states that "any driver of a vehicle other than a motor vehicle who contravenes the provisions of this code relating to the maximum authorised speed is liable to the fine prescribed for second-class offences."
A separate offence exists for travelling at a speed that is inappropriate to the circumstances, even when the legal speed limit is not exceeded. For example, cyclists who ride at a speed considered dangerous for the conditions can face a fine of €135.
Additional speed restrictions apply in some areas. In shared spaces, cyclists must not exceed 20km/h, while in pedestrian zones they must travel at walking pace.
Other offences
Other traffic offences can also result in penalties. Running a red light or using a mobile phone while cycling is punishable by a €135 fine.
Cyclists with a blood alcohol concentration between 0.5g/L and 0.8g/L can also be fined €135, while higher levels may lead to more severe penalties.
Cyclists can also be fined for failing to use mandatory lights after dark or for riding a bicycle that does not comply with safety equipment requirements.
Cyclists do not lose points from their driving licence for cycling offences, even if they hold a driving licence. However, judges can order the suspension of a driving licence following certain serious offences, including dangerous cycling while intoxicated.
