French driving rules that surprise foreign drivers

France’s driving laws include several rules that can easily catch out motorists from abroad - sometimes with serious consequences.

Priority to the right

The priorité à droite rule is a major source of confusion - and accidents. 

This gives priority to vehicles coming from the right at intersections, unless road signs or markings state otherwise. It is based on Article R415-5 of the Code de la route and applies to all road users.

This rule may feel counterintuitive, especially when the side road looks smaller or less busy than the one you are on. However, unless signage or markings indicate otherwise, priority must be given.

There are three main signs that help clarify the situation:

• A yellow diamond means your road has priority.

• A red triangle with a black X confirms the priorité à droite rule applies.

• A red triangle with a thick arrow and a thin bar means you have priority only at the next junction.

The rule does not apply to vehicles entering from car parks, dirt tracks, private roads or driveways. 

On roundabouts, priority is usually given to those already on the roundabout – but a few older ones reverse this rule, so pay close attention to signs.

Lower alcohol limits

Drink-driving rules in France are stricter than in many countries. 

The legal limit is 0.05% blood alcohol content (BAC), compared to 0.08% in England and Wales. For new drivers (licensed less than three years), the limit is just 0.02%.

Police in France can carry out random breath tests without needing a reason.

This differs from the UK, where a test generally requires suspicion of an offence or an accident. As a result, drivers in France are much more likely to be stopped.

Radar detectors banned

Radar warning systems and detectors are illegal in France. 

These include devices that alert drivers to the precise location of a speed camera. Possession or use can lead to a €1,500 fine, six licence points, a three-year suspension, and confiscation of the device.

Legal alternatives do exist, including approved driving aid apps or devices that indicate general “danger zones” without pinpointing camera locations. 

These are allowed as they promote overall caution rather than sudden braking.

Mandatory equipment in all vehicles

Two items are required by law: a reflective safety vest and a warning triangle. These must be kept in the vehicle and easily accessible. 

If your car breaks down, the triangle must be placed at least 30 metres behind the vehicle to alert others, and the vest must be worn by anyone exiting the car.

Other items, such as a spare bulb kit, breathalyser, or first-aid box, are recommended but not compulsory.

And the three second rule?

One common point of confusion is how to respond to a stop sign. 

Instructors in France often teach learners to stop for at least three seconds before moving off. However this advice is not enshrined in law.

The relevant rule, Article R415-6 of the Code de la route, states only that a driver must come to a complete halt at the edge of the road and yield to other vehicles before proceeding. 

The ‘three-second rule’ is not mentioned in any legislation.

It remains widely taught because it encourages safer habits, but courts have declined to clarify whether it is required. 

Police and gendarmes are unlikely to accept “I paused for three seconds” as a defence if they believe you have driven dangerously. 

Failing to stop correctly can result in a €135 fine, up to four points on a French licence and, in severe cases, a licence suspension of up to three years.