Bosnia and Herzegovina vs France: Driving Rules Compared

The blood-alcohol line is where Bosnia and Herzegovina and France really part ways: 0.03 g/L against France’s 0.05, roughly the gap between no drinks and one small beer. Motorway limits match exactly at 130 km/h in both countries. Winter tyres, though, are compulsory by date in Bosnia and Herzegovina, 1 November to 1 April, while France only requires them where mountain-law signs are actually posted.

Drivers will find the transition between Bosnia and Herzegovina and France easy, as both countries drive on the right-hand side of the road.

💡 Try it yourself: Speeding Fine Calculator 2026 — it covers France (not yet Bosnia and Herzegovina), free.

Speed Limits Comparison

Speed limits in Bosnia and Herzegovina and France are broadly similar, though there are some differences worth noting.

Bosnia and Herzegovina sets its speed limits at 50 km/h in cities and towns, 80 km/h on country roads, and 130 km/h on motorways.

Drivers in France should observe limits of 50 km/h in built-up areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 130 km/h on motorway stretches.

Key Speed Limit Differences

Always check posted speed signs when crossing between Bosnia and Herzegovina and France. Relying on your knowledge of one country’s limits while driving in the other is a common cause of speeding fines for tourists.

Traffic Rules and Regulations

Beyond speed limits, Bosnia and Herzegovina and France have several important differences in their general traffic rules.

Driving side: Bosnia and Herzegovina drives on the right; France drives on the right. Since both countries use the same driving side, the transition is seamless in this regard.

Minimum driving age: The minimum age to drive a car is 18 in Bosnia and Herzegovina and 18 in France.

Mobile phone use: Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal in both countries. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the penalty is BAM 50-200 (approx. EUR 25-100). In France, the penalty is EUR 135 + 3 points. Hands-free devices are generally permitted in both countries, but drivers should keep their attention on the road.

Seatbelts: Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants in both Bosnia and Herzegovina and France. The fine for not wearing a seatbelt is BAM 40-100 (approx. EUR 20-50) in Bosnia and Herzegovina and EUR 135 in France.

Running a red light: Red-light violations carry serious penalties. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, expect BAM 100-400 (approx. EUR 50-200) + 3 penalty points. In France, the penalty is EUR 135 + 4 points.

Alcohol and DUI Laws

Understanding each country’s approach to drink-driving is critical, as enforcement and penalties vary considerably.

Bosnia and Herzegovina sets its blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit at 0.03%.

France has a BAC limit of 0.05%.

Bosnia and Herzegovina has a stricter limit, so drivers accustomed to France’s rules should exercise extra caution.

Penalties for exceeding the BAC limit in both Bosnia and Herzegovina and France can include heavy fines, licence suspension, and even imprisonment. Novice drivers face even stricter thresholds in many countries. The safest policy is to not drink at all when you plan to drive.

Tyre and Equipment Requirements

Vehicle equipment requirements are an often-overlooked aspect of driving abroad. Bosnia and Herzegovina and France each have their own list of mandatory items.

Winter Tyres

• Bosnia and Herzegovina: Winter tyres are mandatory. Period: 1 Nov - 1 Apr. Studded tyres: prohibited. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.
• France: Winter tyres are situational. Period: 1 Nov - 31 Mar (mountain law, designated departments). Studded tyres: restricted. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.

Mandatory Equipment

Rental vehicles usually come equipped for the country of hire. If you intend to drive in both Bosnia and Herzegovina and France, check with the rental company that the vehicle has all required items for both destinations.

Speeding Penalties

The financial consequences of speeding vary between Bosnia and Herzegovina and France.

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: BAM 40-100 (approx. EUR 20-50). Penalties escalate significantly for higher speeds, and repeat offenders face licence suspension.

In France, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: EUR 68 (fixed fine). Penalties escalate significantly for higher speeds, and repeat offenders face licence suspension.

Both countries use a combination of fixed speed cameras, mobile speed traps, and in some cases average speed (section control) cameras.

Licence Requirements for Visitors

Licence requirements for foreign visitors differ between {a} and {b}. Here is what you need to know.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: An EU/EEA driving licence is valid. An IDP is recommended for non-EU licence holders. Visitors can typically drive for up to 6 months on a foreign licence Foreign licence valid for 6 months. IDP recommended.

France: An EU/EEA driving licence is valid. An IDP is recommended for non-EU licence holders. Visitors can typically drive for up to 12 months on a foreign licence EU/EEA licences valid. Non-EU visitors need IDP. Sworn translation accepted as alternative.

Always carry your licence (and IDP if applicable) while driving, as police may request to see it during routine checks or traffic stops.

Emergency Numbers

Knowing the local emergency numbers could save your life. Here are the key contacts:

The EU-wide emergency number 112 works in both countries and connects to the appropriate emergency service.

Practical Tips for Driving in Both Countries

If you are planning to drive in both Bosnia and Herzegovina and France, here are some practical tips to keep in mind:

1. Learn key phrases. If you do not speak the local language, learn basic driving-related phrases. In an emergency, being able to communicate with police or paramedics can be invaluable.

2. Adjust to speed limits immediately. When crossing the border, speed limits change. Look for signs and adjust your driving accordingly. Do not rely on habits from the other country.

3. Check insurance coverage. Verify that your motor insurance or rental agreement covers driving in both countries. A Green Card may be required for cross-border travel.

4. Equip your vehicle properly. Ensure you have all mandatory equipment for both countries. It is better to carry extra items than to face a fine for missing equipment.

5. Plan fuel stops. Fuel prices and station availability can vary significantly. In some regions, stations may close at night or on Sundays.

6. Be aware of environmental zones. Many cities have low-emission zones that restrict older vehicles. Check if you need an environmental sticker for either country.

7. Watch for different road signs. While European countries share many sign conventions, there are country-specific signs you should recognise. Review a local driving guide before your trip.

8. Understand toll systems. Research whether you need a vignette, transponder, or cash for tolls in each country.

Which Country Is Easier for Tourists to Drive In?

Which country is easier to drive in depends on your experience level, where you are from, and what conditions you are used to.

Tourist reviews give Bosnia and Herzegovina a driving ease score of 3.5/5 (Challenging). Mountain roads, limited motorways, war-damaged areas

Based on tourist ratings, France scores 2.4/5 (Easy). Good roads, toll system can confuse, city driving challenging

Since both Bosnia and Herzegovina and France drive on the right, the transition between the two is smooth for most drivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in France with a Bosnia and Herzegovina driving licence?

Yes, EU/EEA driving licences are fully valid in both countries without additional documentation.

What is the speed limit on motorways in Bosnia and Herzegovina compared to France?

The motorway speed limit in Bosnia and Herzegovina is 130 km/h, while in France it is 130 km/h. Always watch for posted signs, as limits may vary on specific sections due to roadworks, weather, or local restrictions.

Are winter tyres mandatory in Bosnia and Herzegovina or France?

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, winter tyres are mandatory (1 Nov - 1 Apr). In France, they are situational (1 Nov - 31 Mar (mountain law, designated departments)). If you are travelling during winter months, it is advisable to use winter tyres regardless of legal requirements for safety.

Which country has stricter drink-driving laws?

Bosnia and Herzegovina has a stricter BAC limit (0.03%) compared to France (0.05%). Lower limits mean less alcohol is tolerated before driving becomes illegal.

What side of the road do they drive on in Bosnia and Herzegovina and France?

Bosnia and Herzegovina drives on the right side and France drives on the right side of the road.

Can I use my car insurance from Bosnia and Herzegovina in France?

If both countries are within the EU/EEA, your motor insurance Green Card (or its digital equivalent) typically provides minimum third-party cover in both countries. Check with your insurer for full coverage details.

What emergency number should I call while driving in Bosnia and Herzegovina or France?

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the general emergency number is 112 (police: 112, ambulance: 112). In France, call 112 (police: 17, ambulance: 15). The pan-European number 112 works in both countries.