Speed limits in France: what UK drivers need to know

The speed limits in France are broadly similar to those in the UK, but there are some differences. If you’ve never driven in France before, check what the speed limits are for all types of road, different weather conditions, and for different types of vehicle.

What are the standard speed limits in France?

The obvious thing to notice when you’re driving in France is that the signs you’ll see are in kilometres per hour, rather than miles per hour. The limits for driving a car in built up areas are similar – 50km/h, equating to 31 mph – but on single carriageway rural roads it is significantly lower – 80 km/h, which is 50 mph. On similar roads in the UK the upper limit is 60 mph.

On dual carriageways the limit is similar to the UK, but on autoroutes, the equivalent of motorways, it is much higher – 130kp/h, or 80 mph. On UK motorways the limit is 70 mph.

Speed limits in France for cars

(last update: February 2026)

There are additional 30 km/h limits, such as near schools, in residential areas, historic areas of cities and in major city centres like Paris. The 30 km/h limit also applies when it rains and in poor visibility. See these limits in the table above. On motorways there may be overhead signs indicating the revised speed limit.

30 km/h is the speed limit near schools and in residential areas

What are the speed limits for caravans in France?

For cars towing a caravan or trailer, the speed limits change from the standard, if the total weight exceeds 3.5 tonnes.

• Between 3.5-12 tonnes:
• Built up areas – 50 km/h
• Rural roads – 80 km/h
• Dual carriageways – 90 km/h
• Motorways – 90 km/h

Over 12 tonnes:

• Built up areas – 50 km/h
• Rural roads – 60 km/h
• Dual carriageways – 80 km/h
• Motorways – 90 km/h

What are the speed limits for motorhomes and campervans in France?

‘Rappel‘ signs remind drivers to observe the speed limit 

There are different speed limits for motorhomes, campervans and minibuses in France, if the vehicle or total weight including passengers exceeds 3.5 tonnes.

(last update: February 2026)

Do speed limits change in different regions of France?

Yes, the speed limit for secondary roads, or non-residential rural roads, does vary across France. This is because after an 80 km/h limit was imposed on this type of road in 2018, some departments in France protested, saying that the lower speed limit was more dangerous, as cars took more risks overtaking. Local authorities were then given the option to conduct safety assessments, and have the flexibility to set a limit of 90 km/h. You will clearly see the speed limit signposted on secondary roads, especially if it changes.

How are speed limits enforced?

Stretches of road with speed cameras are clearly indicated

Speeding offences are detected by radar speed cameras. Signs usually indicate that radar traps are in operation, but not for every location, and they won’t specify exactly where the camera is on a stretch of road. The most important thing for UK drivers to note is that speed camera detection technology is illegal in France, so this functionality must be disabled on SatNav systems or mapping apps. If you are caught using a device that detects the location of speed cameras in France, you could be fined €1500.

You could also be caught speeding by unmarked vehicles employing speed radar sensors. These vehicles are operated by private companies, in conjunction with local police forces.

What are the fines and penalties for speeding?

However you are caught speeding – by speed camera, unmarked vehicle or by the police – the fines are the same.

Your driving licence can be confiscated on the spot by French police if your offence is to drive at more than 40 km/h above the speed limit. You will have to pay immediately if the police stop you. For the most serious speeding offences, exceeding the speed limit by 50 km/h, you could receive a temporary ban and have your vehicle impounded.

For fines issued by post, you will have 15 days to pay. The fine is reduced if you pay before the deadline.

Stay up to speed with driving requirements in France

Speed limits are one of the key things to be aware of when driving in France. See our other driving information guides:

• Low emission zones
• Road tolls