Foreign Office warns UK tourists in France over 'mandatory' new rule until March 31

Drivers can be slapped with fines if they do not meet winter guidelines in the European Union holiday hotspot.
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UK tourists and holidaymakers have been issued an urgent travel warning of massive fines when driving in France next month. Drivers can be slapped with fines if they do not meet winter guidelines in the European Union holiday hotspot.

The UK Foreign Office warns vehicles driven in certain mountain regions during the coming months must be fitted with winter tyres or chains. The warning is being issued ahead of the winter, which France defines as being between November 1 and March 31.

It says: "If you are planning to drive in France, see information on driving abroad and check the rules of the road in the RAC’s France guide. The guide lists driving regulations and other legal requirements you need to be aware of. You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in France. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the correct version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well.

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"Check if you need a UK sticker to drive your car outside the UK. These have replaced GB stickers. Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience, a higher minimum age and holding an IDP.

"Police give you on-the-spot fines for driving offences, including speeding. France has strict drink-driving laws and the legal alcohol limit is a third lower than the limit for England and Wales. Police regularly carry out roadside checks for alcohol and drugs. Penalties include fines, loss of licence and prison.

"Vehicles driven in certain mountain regions during the winter period (1 November to 31 March) must be fitted with winter tyres or chains. You could receive a fine if you do not comply. Visit the French public services website for more information (in English) about what type of vehicle this applies to, what type of tyre or chain should be fitted and where in France these rules apply.