Planning to drive in France? Whether you’re heading to Normandy for a weekend or embarking on a grand tour of the French countryside, it’s crucial to be prepared with the right driving in France kit.
Having driven in France many times and having received an on-the spot fine for failing to stop at stop sign, I’ve learnt the importance of being aware of the rules and regulations and carrying all the legally required equipment.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the essential driving kit for France in 2025.
What Driving Kit is Required in France?
(Legal Requirements as of 2025)
If you’re a UK driver travelling in France, the following items are mandatory and must be kept in your vehicle at all times:
- Reflective jackets/hi-vis vests: One for the driver and each passenger. These must be kept within reach inside the car (not in the boot).
- Warning triangle: To be placed behind your car in the event of a breakdown.
- Headlamp beam deflectors: To prevent dazzling other drivers when driving on the right-hand side of the road.
- UK identification sticker: Required unless your number plate includes the UK identifier with a Union Jack.
- Crit’Air vignette: If you’re entering a low-emission zone (e.g. Paris, Lyon, Marseille), you’ll need to display this environmental sticker.
- Snow chains or winter tyres: Mandatory in certain mountain areas between 1 November and 31 March.
Top Tip: I always keep an extra hi-vis vest in the glove box just in case. French police will fine you if it’s not accessible from within the cabin and you should also exit the vehicle from the doors nearest the hard shoulder.
Optional but Strongly Recommended Items
While not legally required, the following items are highly advisable and could save you time, money or even prevent an accident:
- First aid kit: Make sure it has everything you need and we’d always recommend keeping a tourniquet in it.
- Spare bulbs for headlamps and brake lights: You have a requirement to keep all lights working correctly and if you have a bulb go, you could get a fine for it not working so being able to replace it quickly is a must.
- Breathalyser: These are no longer a legal requirement.
- Fire extinguisher: A good fire extinguisher can be helpful no matter where you are.
It’s worth noting that although breathalyser kits are no longer a legal requirement, French police may still ask if you have one, especially if you’re stopped for suspected drink driving.
Comparison: Halfords Driving in France Kit vs. Amazon AA Euro Travel Kit
Two of the most popular driving in France kits are the Halfords kit and the AA6318 Euro kit which can be bought from Amazon. To help you find out which one is best for you we’ve done a handy comparison.
| Item | Halfords Driving in France Kit | Amazon (AA Euro Kit) |
|---|---|---|
| Warning Triangle | ✅ Included | ✅ Included |
| Hi-Vis Vest(s) | ✅ Included | ✅ Included |
| Headlamp Beam Converters | ✅ Included | ✅ Included |
| UK Identifier Sticker | ✅ Included | ✅ Included |
| First Aid Kit | ✅ Included | ✅ Included |
| Spare Bulb Kit | ✅ Included | ✅ Included |
| Breathalyser | ❌ Not included | ❌ Not included |
| Driver’s Handbook | ❌ Not included | ✅ Included |
| Road Map | ❌ Not included | ✅ Included |
| Storage Bag | ✅ Included | ✅ Included |
Legal Compliance for Driving in France
Both the Halfords driving in France kit and the AA Euro kit from Amazon cover the essential items required by French law for UK drivers:
- Warning Triangle: Mandatory
- Hi-Vis Vest: One per occupant in the AA kit and two in the Halfords kit, accessible within the vehicle
- Headlamp Beam Converters: Required for UK vehicles
- UK Identifier Sticker: Mandatory unless the number plate includes the UK identifier
- Spare Bulb Kit: Advised
- First Aid Kit: Recommended
Note: While breathalysers are no longer a legal requirement in France, carrying one is still recommended. Neither kit includes a breathalyser, so consider purchasing one separately if desired.
Additional Features
Halfords Driving in France Kit:
- Compact storage bag with Velcro boot-fixing tabs
- Available for in-store pickup or home delivery
- Option to purchase additional items individually
AA Euro Travel Kit AA6318 (Amazon):
- Includes the AA European Driver’s Handbook and a road map
- Compact zipped storage bag
- Convenient online ordering with home delivery
Price Comparison
The Halfords driving in France kit costs £32.50, whilst the AA Euro Travel Kit AA6318 on Amazon currently costs £25.23 although the price can be subject to change.
Prices are indicative and may vary. Please check the respective retailers for the most current pricing.
Which is Better
Choose the Halfords Kit if you prefer purchasing from a physical store or value the convenience of in-store services.
Opt for the AA Euro Travel Kit AA6318 if you prefer a slightly more comprehensive kit that includes additional informational resources like the driver’s handbook and a road map, and if online ordering suits your needs.
Both kits are suitable for UK drivers planning to drive in France, covering the essential legal requirements. Your choice may depend on personal preferences regarding additional features, purchasing convenience, and budget.
Don’t forget you can buy additional vests or first aid items to add to your kit at either Amazon or Halfords.
Documents Required for Driving in France
There are certain documents that you must carry with you when driving in France in order for you to stay on the right side of the law.
- Full, valid UK driving licence
- Proof of ID (eg: passport)
- Motor insurance certificate
- V5 registration document
- MOT certificate
Insurance & Breakdown Cover
You must have at least third-party insurance to drive legally in France. Most UK comprehensive policies provide 90 days of European cover, but it’s wise to double-check with your provider.
Breakdown cover is not mandatory but highly recommended. Recovery costs on French motorways can be expensive, often exceeding £1,000. Breakdown on a French motorway and you’ll need to use an emergency phone to get towed to a safe area. This can cost around €150, which may be reimbursed by your breakdown provider.
If you’re only taking a short trip, look into single-trip European breakdown policies starting from around £4 per day.
Having broken down in France back in 2018, we can highly recommend European cover. We had cover with the RAC and broke down on a bank holiday weekend.
Although the car could not be fixed at the roadside (broken alternator belt) the recovery driver took the car to a nearby garage whilst we travelled by taxi to the nearest town where we were put up in a hotel whilst the car was being fixed.
Driving in France, The Rules of the Road You Must Know
As in the Uk there are plenty of rules and laws when driving in France. Even the most experienced UK driver can get caught out and so we’ve put together a list of some of the most important rules and laws you need to follow.
Drive on the right
Basic we know, but when you’re tired ornate concentrating properly the main thing to remember is Drive on the right – Overtake on the left.
Roundabouts in France
Vehicles already on the roundabout usually have priority. Since you’re driving on the right, vehicles to your left have priority. There are occasions where some older or rural roundabouts mean vehicles entering from the right have priority, keep an eye out for signs with ‘Priority à Droite’.
Traffic lights
A flashing amber means slow down or give way. A red light with a yellow arrow means you may proceed in that direction after giving way.
Speed limits
Speed limits are lowered in rain and other adverse weather conditions, while special speed restrictions apply to certain classes of vehicle, including coaches and cars with trailers, so check before travel.
The usual fine for speeding in France is €135, however for UK citizens there is an on the spot fine which can be reduced to €90.
If you are caught exceeding the speed limit by more than 40 km/h you may have your drivers licence confiscated on the spot by the police and vehicles may also be seized.
There is a minimum speed limit of 80 km/h on motorways for vehicles travelling in the outside lane.
| Road Type | Normal Conditions | Rain/Wet Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Motorways | 130 km/h | 110 km/h |
| Dual Carriageways | 110 km/h | 100 km/h |
| Rural Roads | 80–90 km/h | 70–80 km/h |
| Urban Areas | 50 km/h | 50 km/h |
Seat belts
Seat belts must be worn by all passengers. Drivers are responsible for anyone under 18. Fines for failing to wear a seat belt are €135, or €90 if paid within 15 days. As a UK citizen you will normally have to pay the fine on the spot.
Child seats
Children under 10 must be in the back unless there are no rear seats. Those under 13kg require a rear-facing baby seat.
Drink driving
Drink drive rules in France are similar to the UK however the maximum level of alcohol in the blood is much lower being 0.05% blood alcohol content. In the UK the level is 0.08%.
Sat nave can be used but ensure the speed camera alerts are disabled as again you can be given an on the spot fine.
My Personal Experience
Although we have been holidaying and driving in France for the last 20 years or so, in 2024, we went on holiday to Au Lac de Biscarosse campsite with Eurocamp.
I missed a stop sign coming off the A660 at Mios — something I’ve learned never to do again. In France, failing to fully stop (even if the road looks clear) will land you an instant fine — mine was €90, paid on the spot by credit card.
This was a pretty rubbish start to the holiday. No warnings, no discussion, French police officers take their job seriously, and even minor infractions are enforced rigorously.
Moral of the story: Always come to a complete stop and apply your handbrake even if the road looks clear. French stop signs are not optional.
Common Mistakes UK Drivers Make Driving in France
Even confident drivers can be caught out by the subtle but important differences when driving in France. Here are the most common mistakes:
- Failing to stop at stop signs: Like the UK, rolling through a stop sign is an offence even if the road is clear. Always come to a full stop and apply your handbrake.
- Using speed camera alerts: It is illegal in France to use sat navs or apps with speed camera alerts enabled. Make sure to disable this feature or risk a €1,500 fine.
- Parking violations: A single yellow line means no parking at any time. Dotted white lines usually mean parking is allowed. Always check local signs.
- Driving without required kit: Not having a hi-vis vest, warning triangle, or headlamp deflectors can result in on-the-spot fines.
- Misinterpreting roundabout priorities: On some older roundabouts, vehicles entering may have priority over those already circulating. Look for the “Vous n’avez pas la priorité” sign.
- Overtaking incorrectly: Drivers in France overtake on the left. Using the right lane to pass can lead to fines unless traffic conditions specifically allow it.
- Driving in low-emission zones without a Crit’Air sticker: Entering a zone without the required vignette can result in fines and possible vehicle restrictions.
- Not carrying your documents: Always have your driving licence, passport, insurance, and V5C logbook with you. Police can request these at any time.
- Assuming you don’t need winter tyres or chains: In mountain regions, these are mandatory during the colder months. Signage will indicate if you must use them.
FAQs About Driving in France Kits
To help you at a glance, our FAQ section gives you a range of answers to the most frequently asked questions surrounding driving in France kits.
Do I need a breathalyser to drive in France?
No, it’s not a legal requirement anymore, but it’s still a good idea to carry one.
What happens if I forget a required item?
You could receive an on-the-spot fine. Police in France routinely check for the driving kit.
Can I use a UK driving licence?
Yes, UK licences are still valid for driving in France.
Is a spare tyre mandatory in France?
No, but if you don’t have one, ensure you carry a repair kit or sealant.
Do I need headlamp converters in France?
Yes, for right-hand drive vehicles. You must adjust or cover your beams.
Do I need a Crit’Air sticker?
Yes, if you’re entering low-emission zones. Apply well in advance, as delivery can take up to 6 weeks.
Can I park anywhere?
Parking rules vary. Generally, dotted white lines indicate permitted free parking. Avoid single yellow lines – they indicate parking is prohibited at all times.
Final Tips Before You Drive in France
There are some final tips we suggest you follow when you are planning to drive in France.
- Check your insurance: Ensure it covers European driving.
- Take your V5C logbook: Proves ownership of your vehicle.
- Take your MOT certificate: Make sure you take it with you.
- Breakdown cover: Highly recommended, especially for motorway travel.
- Get your Crit’Air sticker early: It can take up to 6 weeks to arrive.
- Don’t rely on speed camera warnings: Disable these in your GPS device.
Booking a Ferry or Eurotunnel
Do you need help to book your ferry or Eurotunnel crossing? If you’re looking to book a ferry to France then you may find it beneficial to check out some of our other articles such as Dover to Calais or Dover to Dunkirk Which is Better?, Dover to Calais Ferry vs Eurotunnel, Which Is Best? and Portsmouth to France Which Ferry Route is Best for You?.
