Truck driving bans in France

Since the 1970s, truck driving bans have applied in France to vehicles with a maximum authorised weight of 7.5 tonnes. They were introduced to ease traffic and reduce air pollution and noise. The bans generally apply on motorways and national roads at weekends. In addition, there are regional and seasonal restrictions. 

This page provides an overview of truck driving bans in France.

Is there a general truck driving ban in France?

Yes. In France, trucks with a permissible total weight of 7.5 tonnes or more are subject to a weekend driving ban. It applies from Saturday 10:00 pm to Sunday 10:00 pm. There are also driving bans on public holidays.. 

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

Yes. On public holidays, and on the evening before a public holiday, trucks are subject to a driving ban. 

General public holiday rule (France – 2026)

• The ban starts at 10:00 pm on the evening before the public holiday
• It ends at 10:00 pm on the public holiday itself
• If a public holiday falls on a Saturday, the ban applies from 12:00 am to 11:59 pm
• If a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the regular Sunday ban applies

Public holidays with truck driving bans in France – 2026

Are there regional and seasonal truck driving bans in France? 

Yes. In addition to national rules, regional and seasonal truck driving bans apply in France. 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 trucks 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 (e.g. summer holidays), additional daily bans may apply – for example, on Saturdays from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm across large parts of the road network. 

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

What happens if you drive during a driving ban?

Failure to comply can result in penalties. Fines vary by region and situation and can be up to €750 for drivers and up to €3,750 for companies. In addition, a driving ban of up to three years may be imposed on the driver.

Are there exceptions to the truck driving ban in France? 

Yes. Exceptions apply for certain transports and vehicles, including the transport of perishable foodstuffs and live animals, provided at least half of the loading area is used.

Further exemptions may apply to hazardous goods transport, critical infrastructure and supply transport, as well as health and emergency transport and other public-service operations. 

For some transports, an individual exemption permit can be requested from the competent regional authorities. A clear justification and compliance with applicable safety requirements are required. 

Stay efficient despite truck driving bans in France

Careful planning helps avoid waiting times, detours and fines. Practical tips: 

• Plan routes early: use digital tools with an integrated driving-ban calendar for France.

• Check regional specifics: review regional and seasonal restrictions (e.g. holiday traffic, mountain routes, tunnel sections)). 

• Plan alternatives: consider alternative routes and departure times to reduce delays. 

• Clarify exceptions early: if transporting fresh food or hazardous goods, clarify whether an exemption applies. 

Careful planning is essential to avoid fines and optimise route planning. Use digital planning tools with an integrated driving-ban calendar to keep track of national and regional rules. Check exemptions and alternatives early, and plan accordingly. Get your overview for Europe. 

Download overview