Driving

Aside from getting used to driving on the other side of the road, driving in France isn't particularly difficult.

There are a few documents and things you'll need to have in your car to make sure you're legal on the road and, as road laws are strict, there are a few things we think you should know before you get behind the wheel.

• Documentation - always carry your insurance certificate and driving licence with you. You'll also need a 'carte grise' - a French vehicle registration document - if you're a permanent resident.
• Rules of the road - you'll need to master the 'priorité à droite' which means that you must give way to traffic coming from the right in built-up areas. Unlike the UK, in France, all drivers start with 12 points on their licence and have from one to six points deducted for offences, depending on the nature of the offence. Offences range from speeding and reckless driving to ignoring priority signs or failing to come to a complete stop at road junctions. All lost points are reinstated after three years (if no further offences are committed). You may also reinstate four points by taking a two-day driving awareness course (stage de sensibilisation). If you lose 12 points you will lose your licence to drive for at least six months, after which time you may be expected to take further examinations before regaining your licence. You may also have your licence suspended for short periods.
• Speed limits - generally they are 50 km/hour in built-up areas, 90 km/hour on B roads, 110 km/hour on dual carriageways and 130 km/hour on motorways. These reduce by 20 km/hour in the rain (except in towns).
• Speeding - you should be aware that speeding offences are subject to on-the-spot fines and potential instant loss of your licence.
• Seatbelts - are compulsory in the front and rear.
• Basic equipment - If you're bringing a car over you'll need headlamp converters. And you'll also need a warning triangle. These are easily found in motoring shops the UK, or at ferry terminals.

Through your FranceSolutions bank account we can also advise you on transferring your UK licence and registering your car in France, as well as helping you to arrange car insurance at preferential rates.