Driving in France as a Japan National

France has an excellent road network with scenic autoroutes, but be prepared for toll charges, priority-to-the-right rules, and mandatory safety equipment in your vehicle.

Key Things to Know First

No IDP Typically Required

France generally accepts foreign licences for short-term visitors. Carry your original licence and passport at all times.

Drive on the Right — You Are Switching Sides

Japan drives on the left, but France drives on the right. Extra caution required at roundabouts, intersections, and after exits.

Tips for switching sides

Side-by-Side Comparison

Rule	Japan	France	Change?
Traffic side	Left-hand traffic	Right-hand traffic	Yes
Speed unit	km/h	km/h	Same
IDP required	—	No	No
Min. driving age	18	18	Same
Emergency number	110	112	Different
Road difficulty	Moderate	Moderate	—

Speed Limits in France

Urban

50 km/h

Rural / Open road

80 km/h

Highway / Motorway

130 km/h

Documents to Carry in France

Original driving licence from Japan — must be valid and unexpired
Passport or national ID — carry at all times while driving
Car insurance certificate — verify it covers France before departure
Vehicle registration / rental agreement

Emergency Number in France

112

112 is the pan-European emergency number, widely accepted across many countries worldwide.

Emergency numbers for all countries

Full France Driving Guide

Road rules, toll system, fuel types, parking, regional quirks — everything you need for driving in France.

Read the complete guide