France vs Greece: Driving Rules Compared

France requires drivers to carry a breathalyser kit in the car, one of the few countries with such a rule on the books; Greece has nothing equivalent. Urban speed limits tell a starker story: many Greek towns cap traffic at just 30 km/h, well under the 50 km/h standard in French towns. Motorways land on the same number in both countries, 130 km/h, and both drive on the right.

Since both France and Greece are right-hand-traffic countries, moving between them requires no adjustment to driving side.

Speed Limits Comparison

France and Greece share comparable speed limits, making the transition between them relatively smooth for drivers.

In France, the standard speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 130 km/h on motorways.

In Greece, the standard speed limits are 30 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 130 km/h on motorways.

Key Speed Limit Differences

Always check posted speed signs when crossing between France and Greece. 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, France and Greece have several important differences in their general traffic rules.

Driving side: France drives on the right; Greece 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 France and 17 in Greece.

Mobile phone use: Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal in both countries. In France, the penalty is EUR 135 + 3 points. In Greece, the penalty is EUR 100. 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 France and Greece. The fine for not wearing a seatbelt is EUR 135 in France and EUR 350 in Greece.

Running a red light: Red-light violations carry serious penalties. In France, expect EUR 135 + 4 points. In Greece, the penalty is EUR 700 + licence suspension 60 days.

Alcohol and DUI Laws

Alcohol and driving regulations differ between France and Greece, and the penalties for non-compliance can be severe in both.

France sets its blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit at 0.05%.

Greece has a BAC limit of 0.05%.

Both countries share similar BAC limits, so drivers can apply the same level of caution in either country.

Penalties for exceeding the BAC limit in both France and Greece 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

Tyre regulations and mandatory vehicle equipment differ between France and Greece, and non-compliance can result in fines, especially during winter.

Winter Tyres

• France: Winter tyres are situational. Period: 1 Nov - 31 Mar (mountain law, designated departments). Studded tyres: restricted. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.
• Greece: Winter tyres are not_required. Studded tyres: unknown. 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 France and Greece, check with the rental company that the vehicle has all required items for both destinations.

Speeding Penalties

The financial consequences of speeding vary between France and Greece.

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.

In Greece, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: EUR 40. 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.

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.

Greece: 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. IDP required for non-Latin-script licences.

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 France and Greece, here are some practical tips to keep in mind:

1. Research before you go. Familiarise yourself with the specific rules of each country before your trip. Print or save a summary of key rules for quick reference.

2. 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.

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

4. 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.

5. Respect local driving culture. Overtaking norms, horn usage, and right-of-way conventions differ. Observe local drivers and adapt accordingly.

6. 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.

7. Use a GPS or navigation app. Modern navigation apps often include speed limit warnings, toll information, and real-time traffic updates that can help you comply with local rules.

8. 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.

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.

France is rated 2.4/5 (Easy) by tourists. Good roads, toll system can confuse, city driving challenging

Tourist reviews give Greece a driving ease score of 3.4/5 (Moderate). Variable road quality, aggressive drivers, island ferries, mountain roads

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Greece with a France driving licence?

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

What is the speed limit on motorways in France compared to Greece?

The motorway speed limit in France is 130 km/h, while in Greece 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 France or Greece?

In France, winter tyres are situational (1 Nov - 31 Mar (mountain law, designated departments)). In Greece, they are not_required (no specific period). 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?

Both countries have the same BAC limit of 0.05%, so the strictness is comparable. Penalties in both countries are serious and can include licence suspension, heavy fines, and imprisonment.

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

France drives on the right side and Greece drives on the right side of the road.

Can I use my car insurance from France in Greece?

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 France or Greece?

In France, the general emergency number is 112 (police: 17, ambulance: 15). In Greece, call 112 (police: 100, ambulance: 166). The pan-European number 112 works in both countries.

Greece cut the default built-up-area limit to 30 km/h on 1 January 2026. 50 km/h now applies only on one-way roads with at least two lanes, two-way roads with at least two lanes per direction, or roads with a central median — unless a sign says otherwise.