| Driving in France |
If you're planning on driving while in France, then there are some important things to be aware of and prepared for:
1. Drive on the right side of the road: to assist in not forgetting this, tie something around your right wrist and be extra careful when exiting car parks and service stations.
2. Familiarise yourself with the road signs - better still request our free Guide to Driving in France which includes key signs and invaluable tips.
3. The speed limit in towns is generally 50 km/hr; on national roads, 90 and on the Autoroutes, 130 km/hr. Speed Cameras are not publicised as much as they are in Australia: see our Guide for details and photos.
4. Get to know key words and phrases used to advise motorists. A friend of ours once SMS'd us asking what "risqué de verglas" stood for. We urgently advised that it meant "beware of black ice" on roads - so be careful !! Ask for our Guide.
4. Rental versus Leasing: if your tour is over 21 days, leasing may be the lower cost option. This way you pick up a brand new car and hand the keys back with the car when you're finished, with no more to pay.
5. An International Driver's License is not a pre-requisite in France, but it can be useful in an accident situation. Such licenses are available from your State's motorist organisation (e.g. NRMA).
If you would like to receive a copy of our Guide to Driving in France, please click this link to submit your details and mention "driving" - thank you.