Truck driving bans in France

Since the 1970s, there have been lorry driving bans in France for vehicles with a maximum authorised weight of 7.5 t. They were introduced to ease traffic and to reduce air pollution as well as noise nuisance. The driving bans generally apply to motorways and national roads at weekends. In addition, there are regional and seasonal driving bans. 

In this text, you will find information about truck driving bans in France.

Is there a general lorry driving ban in France?

In France, vehicles with a permissible total weight of 7.5 tonnes or more are subject to a weekend driving ban. This applies from Saturday 10 pm until Sunday 10 pm. Additionally, there are driving bans on public holidays. 

Is there a truck driving ban in France on public holidays?

On public holidays as well as on the evening before the holiday, there is a driving ban for lorries. 

General public holiday rule (France – 2026)

• The driving ban starts at 22:00 on the evening before the public holiday
• It ends at 22:00 on the public holiday itself
• If a public holiday falls on a Saturday, the ban applies from 00:00 to 24:00
• If a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the regular Sunday ban applies (00:00–24:00)

Public holidays with truck driving bans in France – 2026

Are there regional and seasonal truck driving bans in France? 

In France, in addition to national regulations, there are also regional and seasonal lorry driving bans. For example, in the Alsace and Moselle regions, additional driving bans apply on Good Friday and Boxing Day. 

In the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, additional driving bans apply on certain routes during the winter season. These particularly apply in February and early March between 7 am and 6 pm as well as between 10 pm and midnight for lorries over 7.5 tonnes maximum authorised weight. 

In the Île-de-France region (Greater Paris area), additional driving bans apply on selected motorway sections, such as the A6, A10, and A13, in the direction of Paris: 

• Friday from 4–9 pm

• Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm 

• Sunday and on public holidays from 10 pm to midnight 

During seasonal traffic peaks, such as in the summer holidays, additional daily driving bans may apply, for example on Saturdays from 7 am to 7 pm on large parts of the road network. 

A complete and binding overview of all regional and seasonal driving bans is published by the French Ministry of Transport. At the time of updating this article (early January 2026), the seasonal special regulations for the year 2026 had not yet been fully officially communicated.

What happens if you drive despite a driving ban?

Anyone who does not comply with the driving ban risks sanctions. The amount of fines varies depending on the region and situation and can be up to €750 for drivers and up to €3,750 for companies. Additionally, a driving ban of up to three years can be imposed on the driver.

Are there exceptions to the truck driving ban in France? 

Yes, there are exceptions for certain transports and vehicles. These include transports of perishable foodstuffs and live animals, provided that at least half of the loading area is utilised.

Furthermore, there are exceptions for hazardous goods transport, transport for critical infrastructure, health and emergency transport, as well as journeys for public service and supply. 

For certain transports, an individual exemption permit can also be applied for. This is usually issued by the regionally responsible authorities. A comprehensible justification and compliance with the applicable safety regulations are prerequisites. 

Efficient on the road despite truck driving ban in France

Careful route and itinerary planning is crucial to avoid waiting times, detours, and fines. Practical tips: 

• Early route planning: Use digital tools with an integrated calendar function for France to take ban times into account.

• Check regional specifics: Inform yourself in advance about regional or seasonal restrictions in France (e.g., holiday traffic, tunnel routes). 

• Plan alternative routes and times: to avoid fines and delays. 

• Clarify exceptions: If your journey involves, for example, fresh food or hazardous goods, check whether an exception can be arranged. 

Careful planning is essential to avoid fines and optimise route planning. Use digital planning tools with an integrated driving ban calendar to always keep an eye on current national and regional regulations. Check early for exceptions and alternatives. Get your overview for Europe. 

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