France has the highest foreign-driver accident rate in the EU. Most incidents aren't from speed — they're from not understanding priorité à droite, the difference between A and N roads, and the parking sign maze. This is the crash course.
Every year ~10,000 foreign-license tourists get points deducted or fines on French roads. Most of the fines (€90–€135) are avoidable. The most expensive mistake is missing the unmarked priority intersection in rural towns where the main road (your road) becomes secondary at every entrance.
This isn't about being a better driver — it's about understanding 3–4 specific things that local drivers know. Once you get them, French roads are pleasant and forgiving.
The specific rule that foreigners get wrong, in plain English. Includes the sign to look for.
Where in France the rule varies — Paris driving ≠ Corsica driving ≠ autoroute.
What it costs if you break it. Fines are flat in € (not income-linked) — but foreigners are also asked to pay on the spot.
EU/EEA licenses work. UK licenses (post-Brexit): no IDP needed for short stays (under 90 days). US/Canada/Australia: IDP recommended (€5 + photo at your local auto club, valid 1 year). Rental agencies rarely ask, but police can.
Yes (red-and-white boxes by the roadside) and no (mobile, in unmarked cars, average-speed checks over 4 km). Hidden cameras are legal. If you speed, you'll likely be caught.
No, except where a green right-turn arrow is shown. France is stricter than the US/UK on this. €135 fine.