How Will New Driving Rules Affect Your French Road Trip? Essential Updates on Tolls, Speed Limits, and Border Checks in Paris, Alpes-Maritimes, and Across France – Travel And Tour World

Friday, February 14, 2025
In 2025, motorists traveling to France or passing through the country on a road trip will encounter several changes to the road rules and regulations. While driving on the right side of the road and understanding the local road signs are still essential, new developments will affect the driving experience. Road tolls, stricter penalties for traffic offenses, changes in speed limits, electric vehicle (EV) charging benefits, and temporary border checks are just some of the factors travelers should be aware of to ensure a smooth trip through the country.
Increased Road Tolls
Motorists who have driven in France will likely recognize the “péages” (tolls) signs scattered across the country’s highways. However, starting February 1, 2025, tolls have risen by 0.92%. The rates are calculated per kilometer and vary from one road to another. As tolls have increased, drivers should be prepared for higher costs when passing through toll barriers.
While drivers can pay their tolls using cash or card, it’s important to note that the use of smartphones for contactless payments could result in penalties. France enforces strict rules regarding mobile phone usage while driving, and any fines imposed could still be applicable once travelers return to their home countries. This is particularly relevant for UK visitors, who may find themselves liable for penalties when they get back.

In 2024, the introduction of flux-libre (free-flowing) lanes on major toll roads also began. These lanes do not have barriers; instead, drivers pass through and pay the toll either online or over the phone within 72 hours of their journey. This system, while convenient, requires drivers to be aware of the correct payment methods to avoid unexpected fines.
Stricter Penalties for Road Offenses
Holidaymakers visiting the Alpes-Maritimes region in the south-east of France will encounter much stricter penalties if they violate road rules. The area has seen an increase in accidents, prompting authorities to impose tougher penalties for offenses like drink driving. The suspension period for drink-driving offenses in this region has been extended from six months to eight months. Refusing to take a breathalyzer test could result in an 11-month driving ban. This could significantly impact a holiday, especially if one is found guilty of violating the alcohol limits.
It’s important to note that France enforces a lower alcohol limit than many other countries. For example, in the UK, the legal limit is 80mg of alcohol per 100mL of blood, while in France, the limit is much lower at just 50mg. Visitors should be particularly careful not to exceed the legal blood alcohol content, as this could result in severe consequences.
Additionally, the number of speed cameras in this region has increased, meaning drivers should be extra cautious about adhering to speed limits. Since speed camera detectors are illegal in France, visitors must disable any such features on their GPS devices before driving in the country.
Speed Limits: Returning to 90 km/h
In 2018, France introduced a nationwide speed limit of 80 km/h on secondary roads as part of an effort to reduce road accidents. However, some regions, including Allier and other areas in central France, have decided to revert to the 90 km/h speed limit in 2025. This change could lead to sudden shifts in speed limits on local roads, making it crucial for drivers to remain alert and constantly check road signs to avoid inadvertently exceeding the speed limit.
Benefits for Electric Vehicle (EV) Drivers
Travelers driving electric vehicles (EVs) through France will benefit from a drop in electricity prices, which are expected to decrease by up to 14% starting this spring. This reduction will make EV charging more affordable for those embarking on long road trips. Currently, EV charging in France is cheaper than in the UK, with French drivers paying an average of €0.54 (£0.45) per kWh compared to the UK’s average of €0.68 (£0.57) per kWh. Though the difference may seem modest, it can accumulate over the course of a long journey, making France an even more attractive destination for EV owners.
Temporary Border Checks
Since France is a member of the Schengen Zone, travelers typically enjoy free movement within the zone once they’ve crossed the border from the UK. However, due to heightened security measures, France has introduced temporary border controls that are in effect from November 1, 2024, to April 1, 2025. It is likely that these checks will be extended into the summer, especially during peak travel periods. These checks apply to anyone entering France via neighboring countries like Spain, Italy, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, and Switzerland. Travelers planning to drive across the French border should ensure they have their passports readily available, as delays and long queues are expected.
Global Impact on Travelers
The changes in French traffic laws and regulations will have a significant impact on international travelers, particularly those planning road trips across Europe. Increased toll costs and stricter penalties for road violations could add unexpected costs and complications for motorists. For example, holidaymakers driving from the UK or other countries may have to allocate more funds for tolls, and they will need to be even more cautious regarding traffic laws to avoid penalties.
The changes to EV charging costs could encourage more tourists with electric vehicles to visit France, as the country continues to offer cheaper rates compared to many other nations. The ongoing border checks will also affect tourists traveling between France and neighboring countries, as additional time may be needed to cross the border.
Travelers should be aware of these changes and plan accordingly to ensure they have a smooth and enjoyable trip to France.