License RequirementsCan I Drive in France With a UK Licence? Yes — Now on the Right
Whether your licence works in France depends on your country of origin, length of stay and local regulations. Use our permit checker below.
Yes, your UK driving licence is valid in France. However, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended. Your license is valid for up to 12 months.
Now on the right — with péages and a wet-weather limit
Post-Brexit your UK photocard licence is valid for visits to France and an IDP is only recommended, not required — so for the millions of Brits who drive there, the paperwork is simple. The adjustments are on the road. France drives on the right, the opposite of home, and old junctions still use priorité à droite (give way to traffic joining from your right), which surprises visitors. The motorways are tolled (péage), and the limit drops from 130 to 110 in the rain. One legal trap: radar-detector apps are illegal (€1,500). Keep the photocard and passport on you, take the first day’s roundabouts steadily, and the French roads are a joy.
UK License Validity in France
While France does not strictly require an IDP for British visitors, it is strongly recommended.
Having an IDP avoids potential communication issues with local authorities and simplifies the car rental process.
How Long Can You Drive?
Your UK license is valid for 12 months from the date of entry into France.
After this period, you will need to apply for a local driving license.
Post-Brexit Note
UK licences are still recognized in France after Brexit. However, carrying an IDP provides extra certainty.
Important Notes
EU/EEA licences valid. Non-EU visitors need IDP. Sworn translation accepted as alternative.
Other Driving Rules to Know
- Motorway speed limit: 130 km/h
- Blood alcohol limit: 0.05 BAC
- Driving side: Right
- Minimum driving age: 18
Confirm licence validity for your trip
Check Permit RequirementsWhat Most Guides Don’t Tell You
What Happens at the Rental Desk
Legally you may not need an IDP in France, but many rental desks still ask for one. Having it ready avoids delays and arguments. The cost is minimal and it takes minutes to obtain before you travel.
If You Are Stopped by Police
Police in France can issue on-the-spot fines. Present your licence, IDP (if carried), passport and rental agreement. Officers are generally helpful with tourists, but missing documents can trigger a formal report.
The Duration Trap
Your home licence is valid for 12 months in France. After that, you must apply for a local licence. Overstaying and driving on an expired foreign licence makes you uninsured and liable for a fine.
If you plan a long stay, start the local licence application early. The process often involves a medical check, a theory test in the local language, and significant waiting times.
Driving Age Mismatch
The minimum driving age in France is 18. If your home country issues licences at a younger age, your licence is not valid here until you reach the local threshold.
This also affects minimum rental age. Most agencies in France require drivers to be at least 21, and charge a young-driver surcharge up to age 25.
Digital Licences
France does not accept digital or smartphone-based driving licences. You must carry the physical card. A screenshot of your licence is not a valid document.
How France Compares
| Country | IDP Required | EU Licence Valid | Max Stay | Driving Side |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| France | Recommended | Yes | 12 months | Right |
| Germany | Recommended | Yes | 6 months | Right |
| Spain | Recommended | Yes | 6 months | Right |
| Italy | Recommended | Yes | 12 months | Right |
| Belgium | Recommended | Yes | 12 months | Right |
Key Facts at a Glance
| Country | France |
| IDP requirement | Recommended |
| EU licence valid | Yes |
| Max stay on foreign licence | 12 months |
| Minimum driving age | 18 |
| Driving side | Right |
| Blood alcohol limit | 0.05 |
| Emergency number | 17 |
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Related Questions
An IDP is not mandatory but strongly recommended for British drivers in France.
You can drive for up to 12 months in France with a valid UK license.
UK drivers can apply for an IDP at the Post Office. It costs 5.50 GBP and is available over the counter.