This page features information in regards to
legal issues and general motorcycling in France.
Please also view our general advice for
Motorcycling in Europe, which details information on passports,
documents, lights, ferry crossings etc.
Information is correct at the time of publishing (2008), please confirm
as required with authorities.
Accommodation
Motorcycle Friendly Accommodation in France
Age limit
Motorcycles up to 80cc - 16 years.
Motorcycles Over 80cc - 18 years.
No one is allowed to drive on a provisional licence.
British Consulate
British Consulate in Paris:
18 bis rue de l'Anjou, 75008 PARIS
Tel (0033) 1 44 51 31 02 / Fax (0033) 1 44 51 31 27
Crash Helmets
Compulsory for both driver and passenger.
Drink & Drugs
Alcohol - 0.05 limit. Penalties include fine, loss of
licence and/or imprisonment. Penalties for drugs same. Random breath tests
are common.
Driving
General Traffic rules are almost the same as in Britain, except you drive
on the right.
Stop signs mean STOP.
Fines
On the spot fines are high, get an official receipt.
Vehicles parked against regulations may be impounded.
Fuel
No leaded petrol (only replacement lead petrol)
available.
GB Stickers
An international distinguishing sign plate or sticker
should be displayed as near as is reasonable to the national registration
plate at the rear of the vehicle
Highway Code
English Translation of the French Highway Code may be found at ;
http://195.83.177.9/code/index.phtml?lang=uk
Horn
In built up
areas, use of the horn is prohibited except in cases of danger.
Lights
Dipped lights are compulsory day and night for
motorcycles. It is illegal to ride with faulty lights, so spare bulbs are
advisable. Beams must be adjusted. Yellow tints are not compulsory for
foreign vehicles.
Motorcycle Insurance
3rd party compulsory.
Pillion
Only one pillion passenger may be carried on motorcycles. Children under 5
years of age must be fastened in a special seat. All pillion passengers
must be covered by insurance.
Public Holidays
There are 11 public holidays in France each year. These are the 1st
January, the 1st and 8th May, Easter Monday, Ascension day, Whit Monday,
the 14th July, the 15th August, the 1st and 11th November and the 25th
December. On these days Government Depts, banks, shops etc are usually
closed.
Speed Limits
Unless otherwise signposted. In built up areas 31mph
(50km/h), other areas 55mph (90k/h). Urban motorways and dual carriageways
80mph (130km/h). Minimum speed limit on motorways is 49mph (80km/h)
EU driving licence holders exceeding the speed limit by more than 40km/h
will have their licences confiscated on the spot if caught.
Tourist Information
The French Tourist Information Site may be found (in English) at ;
http://uk.franceguide.com/
Vaccinations
No vaccinations are required for entering France.
Information is correct at the time of publishing (2008), please confirm
as required with authorities.
Please also view our general advice for
Motorcycling in Europe, which details information on passports,
documents, lights, ferry crossings, insurance, EIHC's, IDP's etc.
