Driving in Paris (A Local’s Guide, for First Timers)

Driving in Paris might seem intimidating at first. European cities have a reputation for out-of-control drivers. However, it is possible. 

Paris has low speed limits, welcoming visitor rules, and similarities to driving in North America. And for some day trips from Paris, driving is the best method of transportation. 

I’m a Paris, France local of 10 years. I’ve rented cars multiple times and driven on both US and international licenses. I recently passed the French driving test and in this guide, I’m going to share what I’ve learned and break down everything you should know before driving in Paris.

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Driving Laws and Rules in Paris

Before driving in Paris, here are key facts to keep in mind: 

🛣️ Road Size – Paris roads vary significantly in size. There are many narrow, one-way roads, but there are also huge boulevards, particularly on the Right Bank. [Source]

🚙 Local Drivers – Local drivers are fairly aggressive. Keep an eye out for motorcycles, which weave through traffic. [Source]

➡️ Side of the Road – French drivers drive on the right side of the road, as in the United States. 

⚠️ Standard Speed Limit Ranges – Speed limits in Paris are 30 kilometers per hour (18.6 miles per hour). Exceptions include the Champs Elysées and the Boulevard Périphérique, where it is 50 kph (31 mph). [Source]

🚘 Right of Way – The French give the right of way to drivers entering from the right. [Source]

Forbidden Activities and Penalties

There are also important rules to understand before driving in Paris. Generally, French laws are stricter than American laws:

💥 Honking – It is illegal to honk your horn in Paris except when warning about imminent threats. [Source]

📱 Cell Phones – Using a cell phone while driving, even with a Bluetooth device, carries strict penalties. These include fines and points on your license. This includes while pulled over. Park and get out of your car to be sure. [Source]

🚗 Distracted Driving – Distracted driving rules are generally harsh. There are penalties for eating, putting on makeup, or even listening to excessively loud music while driving. [Source]

🍷 Blood Alcohol Limits – Legal blood alcohol limits are 0.5 grams of alcohol per liter of blood (0.25 per liter of air). Penalties for 0.5 to 0.8 grams include fines, while blood alcohol above 0.8 grams per liter of blood can land you in jail. [Source]

🚦 Turning at Red Lights – You can never turn right on a red light in France. [Source]

👉 Pro Tip: France punishes driving infractions harshly, so pay close attention to the road in Paris. Limit conversations, music, and other distractions.

License Requirements

A US license will work to drive in France. Visitors have the right to drive in France for 90 days if they have a notarized translation of their license. You can drive on an American license for up to a year on a residency permit (carte de séjour). [Source]

Technically, you do not need an international driving permit with an American license. However, having one can be useful to rent cars in Paris. I got an international driving permit while still driving on my US license and this helped me avoid car rental hassles.

👉 Pro Tip: French notarization requirements generally require notarization from the last three months. Getting an international permit is a better long-term solution in most cases.

Where to Rent a Car in Paris

Car rentals in Paris work similarly to those in major American cities. You’ll find familiar agencies like Avis and Hertz here. Many car rental companies in France are franchises, so don’t rely on the brand name. Instead, read reviews online. Note that not all companies rent to foreign drivers so check the requirements with whatever car rental agency you choose. 

Major transportation hubs like train stations often have rental car stands. However, these can get crowded. Find a close location to your accommodations in Paris instead. 

Increasingly, Paris rental car agencies are app-operated. Ensure that your rental comes with live support from a person working at a counter in case you run into issues.

Use Discover Cars to select your car rental agency and read reviews.

You can also use the Carlili service to get a rental car delivered to your Paris accommodation and then picked up later. However, timing can be imperfect so this isn’t the best option on a strict deadline. 

🚗 Rental Car Warning: Some Parisian rental agencies have a habit of charging unfair fees, as discussed in The New York Times [source]. Check reviews for different agencies through Travel Lemming’s rental car partner Discover Cars. This will help ensure the agency you’re renting from is reputable.

Car Insurance Rules

All cars must have insurance in France. Luckily, the car, rather than the driver, needs the insurance. When you are renting a car, the daily rate covers the insurance. [Source]

However, this is the minimum cover required by law: unlimited third-party liability insurance. Other coverage, like breakdowns, theft, and medical policies, generally come separately. [Source] 

It is worth checking whether your insurance policies at home cover driving in Paris. Similarly, some credit cards like higher-level American Express cards offer insurance policies. You can also take out separate policies for driving-related medical issues and trip cancellations. We recommend Visitors Coverage for these. 

Parking in Paris

Parking is one of the hardest parts of driving in Paris. Avoid street parking as much as you can in the city. It is difficult to find and tickets for incorrect parking or overstaying your time limit are steep. 

You must pay for street parking Monday through Saturday between 9 am and 8 pm. Sundays and nights are free. 

Cars are limited to two hours in street spots. You will not find meters. Instead, look on the street for a small kiosk where you can pay. Put the ticket in a visible location behind your windshield. 

Street parking in the 1st through 11th arrondissements (districts) is €6 an hour. This rate falls to €4 in the 12th through 20th arrondissements. 

Renting an underground parking space is an easier solution than street parking. These are generally open nonstop. [Source]

6 Tips for Driving in Paris

Tip #1 – Give Yourself Extra Time for Finding Parking

Even wide Paris streets can get crowded. Allow yourself extra time when driving. Traffic, events, or even getting stuck behind a garbage truck on a narrow street can slow you down. 

Tip #2 – Maximize Public Transportation

Driving can be a great way to get around Paris or out of the city for a day trip. But public transportation is your best bet in the city center. This is especially the case if you’re trying to visit the top attractions in Paris.  

One solution for trips outside of Paris is to rent a car in an outer arrondissement like the 16th, then use the subway to get there and back. 

Tip #3 – Learn Your Road Signs

Familiarize yourself with as many French road signs as possible before driving. The signs may seem basic and self-explanatory, but combinations of signs or signs that you approach quickly won’t. Familiarizing yourself with French signs ahead of time can help you stay safe in Paris. 

Tip #4 – Go Slow When in Doubt

Stick to the main Paris speed limit of 30 kilometers per hour (18.6 mph) if you’re unsure what the speed limit is on a given road. Keep in mind that any posted speed limits are in kilometers, rather than miles, per hour.

Tip #5 – Always Keep Your Documents With You 

By law, you must keep important documents with you when driving. This includes your license, including any notarized translation or international permit. It also includes your rental paperwork. 

Tip #6 – Know What’s Happening in the City

Avoid driving during major events as much as you can. I once tried to drive out of the city from the Louvre in central Paris during Fashion Week. It took me two hours to go three blocks. Sporting events, Fashion Week, and big concerts are all vital to avoid for easy driving.

📚 Related Reading: Check out the Best Time to Visit Paris for advice on when to come to the city.

FAQs

How are the roads in Paris?

Paris roads are generally in good repair. However, roads in Paris are also famous for their narrowness, roadwork, and unexpected closures. Plan your route ahead of time.

What are the requirements and rules for driving in Paris?

Visitors can drive on a US permit for 90 days in Paris. French rules are generally stricter than American laws. So, go slow, don’t honk except to avoid a collision, and pay attention to signs.

How is driving in Paris in winter?

Driving in Paris in winter is similar to driving during other times of the year, as Paris weather doesn’t often drop below freezing. If it does, drivers are generally unprepared for snow, so avoid the streets. 

How is driving in Paris in the rain?

Driving in Paris in the rain can be dangerous as roads get slippery and drivers get impatient. Make sure to check your lights and tires before departing. And drive slower than usual.

How is driving in Paris during events?

Driving in Paris can be very difficult during events. Be aware of events happening while you’re driving and plan around them.

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Driving in Paris can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. As long as you plan ahead, learn the road rules, and know your Paris itinerary, you can enjoy a safe and easy time driving in Paris. Oh, and if you’re planning trips outside Paris, you can also check out my guide to driving in France.