Cars & Transportation France

Metro

 

The metro is available in major cities such as Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Rennes, and Toulouse. The Paris metro is one of the oldest and largest in the world, with 16 lines and over 300 stations. The metro is the main means of transportation in the city due to its accessibility and frequent train intervals.

 

RER and suburban trains

 

The RER system serves Paris and its suburbs, connecting the city center with distant areas. In addition to the RER, suburban TER trains provide transport links between cities and more remote regions, making them an important part of the transport system for those living outside major cities.

 

Buses and trams

 

Bus routes cover both urban and rural areas, providing convenient transportation where there is no rail service. Some cities also have tram lines, for example, in Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. Trams are a popular form of transport due to their environmental friendliness and efficiency.

 

High-speed trains

 

France is famous for its network of high-speed TGV trains, which connect the main cities of the country; allowing quick and comfortable trips from Paris to Marseille, Lyon, Lille, Bordeaux, and other cities. Recently, new routes such as Paris-Berlin and Paris-Barcelona have been launched.

 

Air travel

 

In France, air travel plays a key role in the country's transport infrastructure, providing connections both domestically and internationally.

 

France has several major international airports, among the most significant: Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Paris-Orly, Nice Côte d'Azur, Lyon-Saint Exupéry, and Marseille Provence.

 

Domestic flights in France are operated between major cities such as Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Nice, and Bordeaux.

 

For passengers arriving in Paris, convenient transport links to the airports include high-speed RER trains, buses, and taxis. For instance, RER B connects Charles de Gaulle airport to the center of Paris, and Orlyval and metro line 14 provide transport links between Orly airport and the city.

Types of tickets

 

 

 

t+ tickets: Used for trips on the metro, buses, trams, and RER within Paris.

 

Where to buy: at vending machines at stations, ticket offices, or through the Bonjour RATP app; tickets can be loaded onto a Navigo Easy card.

 

 

 

Navigo cards

 

Navigo Easy: A card for storing t+ tickets and passes. The card can be recharged through machines, ticket offices, or an app.

 

Navigo Jour and Navigo Semaine: Unlimited travel passes for a day and a week, respectively.

 

 

 

Paris Visite Pass: A tourist pass for unlimited use of transport for 1, 2, 3, or 5 days.

 

Where to buy: At tourist offices, ticket offices, and online.

 

 

 

Ways to purchase and use tickets

 

Machines and ticket offices: Tickets can be purchased at vending machines located at metro and RER stations, as well as at ticket offices at major stations.

 

Mobile apps: The Bonjour RATP and Île-de-France Mobilités apps allow you to buy and recharge tickets and travel cards directly from your smartphone. After purchasing a ticket via the app, simply hold your phone to the terminal at the station for validation.

 

SMS tickets: In some regions of France, you can buy a ticket via SMS by sending a message to a special number. This service is especially convenient for one-time bus trips.

 

 

 

Useful tips

 

Plan your trips in advance: If you plan to travel a lot in the city, consider purchasing a daily or weekly pass.

 

Use apps: Mobile apps can help you not only buy tickets but also plan routes, check schedules, and get up-to-date transport information.

 

Be sure not to discard and keep your tickets until the end of the trip: In Paris, inspections are frequent, and the fine for traveling without a ticket can be significant.

Taxis

 

Taxis can be hailed on the street or via apps:

 

G7: The largest taxi operator in France, offering convenient booking through an app and the option to choose English-speaking drivers. A large part of the fleet consists of hybrid and electric vehicles.

 

Alpha Taxis: Known for the professionalism of their drivers and the cleanliness of their vehicles. The app supports pre-orders and cash payments.

 

Uber: An international platform for taxi booking that operates in many cities in France, including Paris, Lyon, Marseille, and others; it offers various classes of vehicles and a range of amenities for its users.

 

Bolt: A popular taxi booking platform operating in France; it emphasizes affordability and transparency of its services.

 

Payment is possible both in cash and through apps.

 

Fixed rates: Fixed rates apply for trips to Paris airports: for example, from Charles de Gaulle airport to the Right Bank of Paris – 60 euros, to the Left Bank – 75 euros. A trip from Orly airport to the Right Bank costs 55 euros, to the Left Bank – 50 euros.

 

Note: Prices may change, always check the current prices on the date of the trip.

 

 

 

Scooter and bike rental services

 

In Marseille, electric scooter rental services like Voi operate around the clock and provide convenient conditions for users.

 

Lyon offers electric scooter rental through services like Lime and Bird. The city actively supports micromobility, providing special bike lanes and parking zones for scooters.

 

In Bordeaux, you can rent a scooter through several companies, including Lime and Tier. The city's infrastructure supports the use of scooters, making them a convenient means of transportation for locals and tourists.

 

In Nice, electric scooters from various services are also available. The city authorities support the use of environmentally friendly modes of transport, contributing to the popularity of scooter rentals.

 

Rules for using electric scooters

 

Age restrictions: In most cities, the minimum age for renting an electric scooter is 18 years.

 

Speed limits: The maximum speed of electric scooters on public roads is 25 km/h.

 

Parking: Scooters must be parked in specially designated places to avoid hindering pedestrians and other traffic participants. Improper parking can lead to fines.

 

Safety: Wearing helmets is not mandatory but highly recommended. At night, reflective clothing should be used.

 

Since September 1, 2023, Paris became the first European city to completely ban the rental of electric scooters. This decision was made after a referendum in which 90% of voters supported the ban. The main reasons were the increased number of accidents and fatalities associated with scooter use, as well as complaints about their disorderly placement on the streets.

 

 

 

Bike rental

 

In France, bike rentals are available in many cities, offering a convenient way to get around for both locals and tourists.

 

 

 

In Paris, one of the largest bike-sharing systems in the world, Vélib' Métropole, operates. It offers mechanical and electric bikes that can be rented at numerous stations across the city. In addition, services like Véligo offer long-term electric bike rentals.

 

 

 

In Lyon, the Vélo'v bike rental system is available, operating on a similar principle. Bikes can be rented and returned at any rental station, making them a convenient means of transportation around the city.

 

 

 

Bordeaux also offers bike rental services through various companies. The city's infrastructure supports bike usage, including dedicated lanes and parking zones.

 

 

 

In Marseille, bikes can be rented through several operators. The city actively develops bike infrastructure, contributing to the popularity of bike rentals among locals and tourists.

 

 

 

In Nice, the bike rental system is well-developed and supported by the city authorities, making them accessible and convenient to use.

 

 

 

Bike rentals are also available in cities like La Rochelle, Nantes, Toulouse, and many others. Each of these cities has its operators and rental systems, allowing you to choose the most convenient option depending on your needs and location.

 

 

 

Rules and tips

 

Safety: Helmets and other safety equipment are provided in many cities. It is recommended to always use a helmet and follow traffic rules.

 

 

 

Carsharing

 

BlaBlaCar Daily: A service for daily commutes allowing passengers to share the cost of the trip.

 

Communauto: A carsharing company offering vehicles for short-term rental in Paris and other cities in France.

 

 

 

Using taxi and carsharing services in France makes moving around cities convenient and accessible for both locals and tourists.

Living in France without owning a car is quite feasible thanks to the developed public transportation system, bike and scooter rentals, as well as accessible carsharing services. It is not only convenient but also helps reduce your environmental footprint and transportation costs.

 

As for Paris, avoiding the purchase of a car is even recommended because the costs of the car, its maintenance, insurance, parking, potential numerous fines, and constant traffic jams are unlikely to give you an advantage over public transportation and one of the best metro systems in the world.

The process of obtaining a French driver's license may vary depending on your country of origin and your current driver's license.

 

 

 

Exchanging a foreign driver's license

 

If you come from a country with which France has a reciprocal agreement, you can exchange your current driver's license for a French one without taking exams. This agreement covers many European countries as well as some US states and Canadian provinces. A complete list of countries can be found on official websites such as Service-Public.fr.

 

 

 

Required documents:

 

- The original foreign driver's license and its official translation (if needed).

 

- Proof of residence (e.g., a utility bill or rental agreement).

 

- A recent passport-sized photo.

 

- Passport or other identification card.

 

- A declaration that your license has not been revoked or suspended in the issuing country.

 

 

 

Application process: With these documents, you can apply at the local prefecture or subprefecture of your residence. It is advisable to keep copies of all submitted documents.

 

 

 

Obtaining a new French driver's license

 

Registration at a driving school: If your foreign license is not eligible for exchange, you will need to undergo training at a local driving school. The minimum number of required driving hours is 20 hours for a manual transmission and 13 hours for an automatic transmission.

 

 

 

Theoretical exam: The theoretical exam includes 40 multiple-choice questions concerning traffic rules and safety. The exam can be taken in French, English, and other languages. A minimum of 35 correct answers is required to pass.

 

 

 

Practical exam: The practical exam lasts about 32 minutes and is conducted in a driving school vehicle. The examiner checks driving skills, including parking, reversing, and emergency braking. After successfully passing both exams, you will receive a temporary driver's license, and then the permanent license will be mailed to your address.

 

 

 

Probationary driver's license: New drivers receive a probationary driver's license valid for three years. It contains 6 points, which increase to 12 if there are no violations for three years. Drivers can lose points for various violations, such as speeding or driving under the influence.

 

 

 

Cost: The process of obtaining a driver's license in France can cost between 1500 and 2500 euros, including the cost of training and exams. In some cases, financial aid is available, such as low-interest loans for young drivers.

Buying a car

 

Choosing a car: It is best to choose a car through brand dealerships, as they provide reliability and a full range of services. You may also consider buying a used car through specialized sites like AutoScout24 and LaCentrale.

 

Documents: To purchase a car, you will need a valid passport or national ID card, proof of residence (such as a utility bill or rental agreement), a valid driver's license, and a visa or residence permit for non-EU citizens.

 

 

 

Registration: The car must be registered in your name through the Agence Nationale des Titres Sécurisés (ANTS). You will need a purchase agreement, identity proof, address verification, and insurance. Registration fees depend on the car's power and environmental class.

 

Technical Inspection: For used cars older than four years, a technical inspection certificate is required, which must be no older than six months at the time of sale.

 

Insurance: Car insurance is mandatory in France. Insurance costs depend on the driver's age, car model, place of residence, and coverage level.

 

 

 

Driving the Car

 

Driver's License: Foreigners can use their national driver's license for the first 12 months of their stay in France. After this period, non-EU citizens must exchange their license for a French one.

 

 

 

Traffic Rules

 

In France, driving is on the right side of the road. A warning triangle and a reflective vest must be present in the car. It's also advisable to have a spare wheel and a first aid kit in the vehicle.

 

In cities, traffic may be restricted for cars with high emissions. Such zones (ZFE or LEZ) require a special Crit'Air sticker, classifying the vehicle by emission level.

 

 

 

Parking: In most cities, parking is paid and regulated by parking meters or parking discs. Parking discs can be purchased at police stations or tourist offices. Payment for parking is often possible through mobile applications.

 

 

 

Toll Roads

 

France has an extensive network of toll roads, including highways and some tunnels and bridges.

 

Payment Types

 

Cash and Cards: Payment stations are located at the entrances and exits of toll roads. Most stations accept cash and major bank cards. Machines are equipped with instructions in several languages, including English.

 

Electronic Payment (Télépéage): This is an automatic payment system using a device installed on the car's windshield. The device is read as you pass through special lanes without the need to stop. The amount is automatically deducted from your bank account. You need to subscribe to the service with companies like Liber-t, APRR, or Vinci Autoroutes.

 

Marks and Signs: Toll roads are marked with blue signs with white letters indicating the highway number and direction. Payment stations are marked with coin or credit card symbols. Special lanes for electronic devices (Télépéage) are marked with the letter "T" and orange color.

 

Traffic Lanes: At payment stations, lanes for cars with Télépéage devices are usually on the left and marked with orange signs. Lanes for cash and card payments are on the right and marked with corresponding symbols.

 

Rules and Tips

 

Speed Limits: Standard speed limits apply on French highways: 130 km/h in dry weather and 110 km/h in wet conditions. Near payment stations, speed is limited to 30 km/h or less, depending on the lane type.

 

Parking and Rest Areas: Rest areas and parking are located on toll roads. They are marked with appropriate signs and are accessible for free.

 

Route Planning and Cost Calculation: Use online services and applications to plan your route and calculate toll road charges. For example, the ViaMichelin website allows you to calculate travel costs and plan a route considering toll roads.

Violation Classification

 

 

 

1st Class Violations

 

Example: Non-compliance with parking rules.

 

Fine: A small fixed fine.

 

 

 

2nd Class Violations

 

Examples: Changing direction without signaling, non-payment of road toll, lack of insurance.

 

Fine: Usually a fixed fine, can vary depending on the specific violation.

 

 

 

Class 3 Violations

 

Examples: Speeding by less than 20 km/h (with a speed limit over 50 km/h), defective brakes.

 

Fine: Fixed fine and possible deduction of points from the driver's license.

 

 

 

Class 4 Violations

 

Examples: Using a mobile phone while driving, driving on the shoulder, not wearing a seat belt, running a red light.

 

Fine: From 135 euros, up to 750 euros if not paid on time. Deduction of points and possible temporary confiscation of the vehicle.

 

 

 

Class 5 Violations

 

Examples: Speeding by more than 50 km/h, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

 

Fine: Up to 1500 euros, deduction of 6 points, temporary confiscation of the vehicle and possible revocation of the driving license for up to three years.

 

 

 

Special Cases

 

 

 

Alcohol and Drugs:

 

The permissible blood alcohol level is 0.5 g/l, for young drivers (less than two years of experience) – 0.2 g/l. Violation of these norms results in severe fines, deduction of 6 points and possible criminal prosecution.

 

Driving under the influence of drugs is punishable by large fines, deduction of points and possible imprisonment.

 

 

 

Use of Gadgets:

 

The use of smartphones and other devices not intended to assist the driver results in a fine of up to 1500 euros and deduction of points from the driver's license.

 

 

 

Speeding Violations:

 

Speeding up to 5 km/h no longer results in the deduction of points but remains subject to a fine of up to 135 euros.

 

Speeding by 50 km/h or more results in severe fines, deduction of 6 points, temporary confiscation of the vehicle, and revocation of the driving license for up to three years.

 

 

 

Payment of Fines

 

Timely Payment: If the fine is paid within 15 days, the amount of the fine may be reduced. Non-payment within 45 days leads to an increase in the fine.

 

Payment Options: Fines can be paid online, by mail, or in person at local administrative offices.

Technical Inspection

 

 

 

Mandatory: All cars older than four years must undergo a technical inspection every two years. For new cars, the first inspection is conducted four years after the first registration. Inspection is also mandatory when selling a used car, and it must be conducted no earlier than six months before the sale.

 

 

 

Inspection Points: Inspections are conducted at accredited inspection centers that check the main systems of the vehicle for compliance with safety and environmental standards.

 

 

 

Procedure and Cost: The cost of inspection varies but averages around 70 euros. If a vehicle fails the inspection, the owner is required to rectify the identified deficiencies and undergo a reinspection.

 

 

 

Vehicle Registration

 

 

 

Registration Procedure:

 

The registration of a new or used car is carried out through the online ANTS system (Agence Nationale des Titres Sécurisés) or at the local prefecture.

 

Required documents: Registration application (form CERFA 13750*05), original purchase agreement, valid identification, proof of residence (e.g., utility bill), technical inspection certificate (for cars older than four years), and certificate of conformity for imported cars.

 

 

 

Deadlines and Fines: The owner must register the car within one month after purchase. Late registration is subject to a fine of up to 750 euros.

 

 

 

Taxes and Fees: Depending on the region and type of car, registration fees may vary. Environmental taxes based on CO2 emissions are also included. The average registration cost is around 200 euros but may be higher for cars with high emissions.

 

 

 

Imported Cars: For cars imported from non-EU countries, customs duties and VAT must be paid. A certificate of conformity to European standards and a declaration of import are also required.

 

 

 

Detailed information and assistance can be found on the official ANTS and Service-Public.fr websites.

Short-term Stay

 

If you plan a temporary stay in France (up to six months per year), you can use your foreign car without the need for registration. It is important that the car has a valid registration and insurance from the country of origin.

 

It is recommended to have original documents confirming registration and insurance with you, as well as an international driving license if your national license is not recognized in France.

 

Technical Inspection: A technical inspection may not be required, provided the vehicle has a valid inspection and insurance in the country of registration.

 

 

 

 

 

Traffic Rules: During their stay in France, foreign vehicles must comply with local traffic rules, including requirements for technical condition, the presence of an emergency sign, a reflective vest, and a first aid kit.

 

 

 

Permanent Stay

 

If your stay lasts more than six months, you are required to register the vehicle in France.

 

 

 

Registration Procedure

 

Import from the EU: Cars imported from EU countries are exempt from customs duties if they are older than six months and have a mileage of more than 6,000 km. However, a certificate of conformity from the manufacturer is required, confirming that the car complies with European standards.

 

Import from Non-EU Countries: In this case, customs duties and VAT must be paid, as well as a conformity certification procedure. This may require an individual technical inspection to confirm compliance of the car with French standards.

 

 

 

Required Documents:

 

- Original registration certificate from the country of origin.

 

- Certificate of conformity.

 

- Import declaration or original purchase invoice (for cars from non-EU countries, the declaration must be certified by customs).

 

- Technical inspection for cars older than four years.

 

- Car insurance.

 

- Identity card, proof of residence address, and completed application for registration (CERFA form 13750*05).

 

 

 

Deadlines and Penalties: Vehicle registration must be completed within one month of arrival in the country. Late registration may result in a fine of up to 750 euros and possible confiscation of the vehicle.

 

 

 

Additional Requirements

 

 

 

Insurance: Car insurance covering at least civil liability is mandatory in France. Without insurance, the use of the car on roads is prohibited.

 

 

Periodic technical inspection: Cars older than four years must undergo an inspection before registration. For new cars, the first inspection is conducted four years after the initial registration and then every two years.

 

 

 

Therefore, the use and registration of foreign cars in France require compliance with a number of rules and procedures. It is important to complete all necessary actions on time to avoid fines and legal issues.

In France, the infrastructure for electric vehicles is actively developing. By the end of 2023, more than 110,000 public charging stations have been installed in France, making it the second most equipped country in Europe after the Netherlands.

 

Types of Charging Stations

 

Regular Charging Stations: Designed for charging electric vehicles over several hours. Often located in parking lots, shopping centers, and residential areas.

 

Fast Charging Stations: Can charge an electric vehicle up to 80% in 30-45 minutes. Located along highways and at major transport hubs.

 

Service Centers

 

Dealer Centers: Many car manufacturers, such as Renault, Peugeot, and Tesla, have their own service centers equipped with everything necessary for servicing electric vehicles.

 

Independent Services: The number of independent workshops offering repair and maintenance of electric vehicles is growing. These centers undergo specialized training and obtain the necessary equipment for working with high-voltage electric vehicle systems.

 

Thus, France is actively investing in developing the infrastructure for electric vehicles, including the installation of charging stations and the development of a network of service centers. These efforts make operating electric vehicles more convenient and accessible for residents and guests of the country.