Latest News: New rules for French motorists and tourists

Latest News: New rules for French motorists and tourists

From Sunday July 1, disposable breath test kits will become obligatory in all cars and most motor cycles in France. This new rule is applicable to tourists as well as residents so if you are hiring a car in France, or driving your rental vehicle through France, you should ensure you abide by the new law.

The disposable breathalyser kits can be purchased at most supermarkets and motorway service stations and it is recommended that you carry two so that if you do use one, you have another at the ready.

The kits cost about €2 to €4. If you are pulled over by the Police and do not have a breathalyser kit in your car, you can be issued with an on the spot fine of €11.

You should also be aware that the legal limit in France is 0.5g of alcohol per litre of blood.

With much more random testing by 'les gendarmes' now in France, it simply is not worth taking the risk and you will be fined if you don’t carry a kit, so be warned!

In France it is also compulsory to carry a safety triangle in your vehicle's boot and a fluorescent vest in the glove box. These are usually supplied by your car rental company but you should check to be sure.