Mandatory Requirements
The following items are mandatory when driving in France. Failure to comply with any of the legislations may result in an on-the-spot fine, which could be up to 135 Euros for each offence. Foreign travellers have to pay fines on the spot in the local currency with travelers cheques and credit cards not being acceptable. Inability to pay may result in the vehicle being impounded until the fine has been paid. So, it is advisable to ensure that you carry enough cash on you in case the worst happens.
High Visibility Jacket
It is mandatory to carry at least one fluorescent high visibility jacket when driving in France, and the French Road Safety Department strongly advise carrying 2 hi-vis vests. If you are involved in an accident or breakdown whilst driving in France, or assist someone in an accident or breakdown, you are required to wear your reflective safety jacket. French law states that it must be easily accessible from inside the car, so it's no good keeping it in the boot. In fact, it's wise wise to make sure that the jacket is visible from outside the vehicle - you are less likely to be stopped by the Fench police (who may then take the opportunity to look for other problems - British drivers are a lucrative cash cow). Many locals dress their driver or passenger seat in their high-vis vest. Strictly speaking the jacket must...
- ...bear a CE mark stating conformance to EU standard EN 471 or EN 1150
...have a label with care instructions
...have a notice in French indicating how to use them
...have a notice stating how to keep and clean them, and the date up to which they can be used.
Warning Triangle
A warning triangle conforming to Geneva Ruling N :27 (bearing the marking E27R) is a mandatory requirement when driving in France. In the case of a breakdown or accident the triangle must be placed 50-150 metres behind your vehicle to warn approaching traffic. Hazard warning lights alone are not regarded as being sufficient, but you still need to turn them on.
Headlamp Adaptors
UK vehicles are designed for driving on the left hand side of the road, which means that when driving in France you will dazzle oncoming drivers. Failure to adapt your headlamps will render the vehicle unfit for the road, invalidating your motor insurance and resulting in an on the spot fine. Self adhesive headlamp deflector kits are readily available from motoring shops, but remember to remove them on your return to the UK.
GB Plate
International Law requires that you indicate the Country of Registration on your vehicle. UK registered vehicles displaying Euro-plates (a circle of 12 stars above the national identifier on blue background) no longer need a GB sticker when driving in European Union countries. If you do not have a Euro-plate, a GB sticker (at least 6.9in by 4.5in) can be purchased from a motoring store, and this should be sited on the rear of the vehicle on the passenger side (for UK right-hand drive vehicles). You can get plates that stick to your bodywork or glass, or magnetic plates. My advice would be to steer well clear of magnetic plates, unless you have used them before without problem. On my vehicle, at least, a reaction was caused with the underlying paintwork (not simple abrasion). I used a non-sticky vinyl plate attached to my rear window. These should be attached to the interior, but because my rear window is tinted, I attached it successfully to the exterior. With two weeks driving, it failed to fall off, peels off easily when you want it to, and there is no risk to the paintwork.
Spare Spectacles
If you wear spectacles or contact lenses you are required to carry a spare pair.
UK Driving License
It is compulsory to carry your driving license with you at all times when driving in France. If your licence does not incorporate a photograph, ensure you carry your passport to validate the licence.
Car Registration Documents
Your V5 vehicle registration document must be carried with you at all times. If the vehicle is not registered in your name, carry a letter from the registered owner giving you permission to drive. If your company car is leased, you will need permission from the lease company plus a 'Vehicle on Hire Certificate' [VE103R]. The lease companies are used to this and will usually send you a pack with all the documentation you'll need.
Car Insurance
Check with your insurance company that you are covered for mainland European driving prior to leaving for France, and obtain a 'green card'. This is an internationally recognised document proving that your vehicle meets the minimum car insurance requirement for driving in France. Some insurance companies will charge for providing a green card. Carry the documentation with you at all times.
MOT certificate
(Undecided whether this is a legal requirement, or is recommended).
Recommended
The following items are not mandatory, but it is advisable to carry them in any case.
Spare Bulbs and fuses
All vehicle lamps, lenses and reflectors must be in working order at all times. Failure to replace a broken bulb could result in a spot fine, so always carry spares for all your car lights. You should also carry a set of spare fuses.
First Aid Kit
A First Aid kit should be carried in your vehicle at all times when driving in France. Under French law you are obliged to stop and render assistance if you see a citizen in trouble.
Fire Extinguisher
If you carry a fire extinguisher while driving in France and you see a vehicle on fire, under French law you are obliged to stop and render assistance. If you fail to render assistance in the event of a fire or take necessary precautions to prevent a fire from escalating is an offence.
"European Accident Statement" form
This is a pair of forms that should be filled in by both you and the other party if you are involved in an accident. One form is in English, and the other in French. Details of the accident are entered, a drawing made, and both parties agree the statements and sign the forms. The purpose is to simplify matters. Your insurer will probably send one out to you, but if not, you can download a pair of forms at http://european-accident-statement.acci ... ort_FR.php
Don't Take
Speed-trap radar detectors are illegal in France, even if turned off, and you can get a heavy on-the-spot fine if caught (up to 1500 Euros and the vehicle and/or device may be confiscated). SatNav POIs, however, are legal.