Before setting of on a French road trip, ensuring your tyres are roadworthy and compliant with French regulations is crucial.
While the basic principles of tyre safety are very similar to those in the UK, there are key differences and requirements that UK motorists should be aware of when driving their own car in France.
The Basics: Tyre Maintenance for Long Journeys
Before setting off, check your tyres to ensure they are in good condition for a long drive. This includes:
- Tread Depth: The legal minimum tread depth in France, as in the UK, is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre.
- Tyre Pressure: Ensure your tyres are correctly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels. Under-inflated or over-inflated tyres can affect fuel efficiency, handling, and safety. I personally carry a portable tyre inflater in the boot for use in emergencies. (see Tyre Inflator below)
- General Condition: Inspect for cuts, bulges, or other damage that could lead to failure on the road.
Carrying a spare tyre that is road legal is very important, and if you would be capable of repairing a tyre then taking a tyre repair kit would also be good. Breakdown services in rural France can be sparse and costly.

Winter Tyres: Mandatory in Some Regions
One key difference between the UK and France is the requirement for winter tyres or snow chains in certain areas during winter. From November 1st to March 31st, vehicles traveling in designated mountainous regions (such as the Alps, Pyrenees, and Massif Central) must be equipped with:
- Winter tyres (marked with the M+S or 3PMSF symbols), or
- Snow chains that can be fitted when required.
Failure to comply in these areas can result in fines, even if road conditions seem mild. This rule is specific to certain regions, so check your route in advance.
Spare Tyre Requirements
Unlike in the UK, where a spare tyre isn’t a legal requirement, French regulations strongly recommend carrying a spare or a tyre repair kit. Personally I think you'd be bonkers to go driving around France without a spare tyre, so it's really a no brainer.
While a spare tyre doesn’t need to match the make or brand of your other tyres, it must be roadworthy and meet legal standards.
Tyres on the Same Axle
In both France and the UK, tyres on the same axle must be of the same:
- Size: As indicated on the vehicle’s handbook.
- Type: For example, summer, winter, or all-season.
- Tread Pattern: For balanced handling and safety.
While the brand doesn’t legally need to match, using identical tyres is highly recommended for optimal performance.
Reflective Jackets and Warning Triangles
French law requires drivers to carry a reflective jacket and warning triangle in their vehicle. In the event of a tyre-related breakdown, these items must be used to warn other motorists. This is not a tyre-specific rule but is essential to avoid fines and ensure your safety.
Emergency Repairs and Tyre Replacement
If you experience a puncture or tyre damage in France:
- You are allowed to drive to the nearest garage or tyre fitter, provided the vehicle remains safe to drive.
- Ensure the replacement tyre matches the required size, type, and load/speed ratings of the original.
Tyre Inflator
I personally carry a portable tyre inflator in my car so if needed I can put air in my tyres even if I'm nowhere near a garage. These are useful to own even if just driving in the UK.
Based on the cost of buying one and garages charging £1 or more for 5 minutes to use of their air pumps, this can pay for itself in no time.
I also like the convenience of checking my tyres at home and not having to queue up at the garage to use their air pump.
Cordless Tyre Pump, Air Compressor
Many garages and service stations in France have tyre-fitting facilities, but it’s wise to carry your own portable air compressor. The one above is around £20 and can be charged in your vehicle and just kept in the boot for emergencies.
For more serious problems a European breakdown cover policy to assist in emergencies is very useful. In fact I wouldn't drive to France without it.
Driving at High Speeds
France’s motorway speed limits (up to 130 km/h or 80 mph) may require more from your tyres than UK motorways, especially in summer heat. Ensure your tyres are rated for the speeds and loads your journey will involve.
Key Differences: France vs. UK Tyre Regulations
- Winter Equipment: Winter tyres or snow chains are mandatory in specific French regions during winter, while the UK has no such legal requirement.
- Spare Tyre: France strongly advises carrying a spare, while it’s not mandatory in the UK.
- Breakdown Protocol: Reflective jackets and warning triangles are legally required in France, which is not the case in the UK.
Final Checks Before You Go
- Verify your tyres’ size, tread, and pressure.
- Check your route for winter tyre requirements.
- Pack your reflective jacket, warning triangle, and spare tyre or repair kit. (See our Full Checklist)
- Ensure your breakdown cover includes Europe.
By following these guidelines and understanding the differences in regulations, you’ll enjoy a safer and smoother journey through France. Bon voyage!
Suggested reading: French Road Signs.
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