Big Changes for UK Drivers in Normandy: Speed Limits on Secondary Roads to Increase
UK drivers heading to Normandy should take note: the speed limit on many rural roads in the Eure department is set to increase from 80 km/h to 90 km/h. Local authorities have approved the change, though it won’t take effect immediately.
What’s Happening?
The council for Eure, a department in northern France (Normandy), voted in favour of returning some secondary roads to a 90 km/h speed limit. This reverses the controversial 2018 decision that reduced limits across France to 80 km/h in a bid to improve road safety.
However, the change isn’t instant. Before speed limits are raised, safety assessments must be carried out, followed by approval from France’s national road safety authorities (sécurité routière). The new limits are expected to be implemented in 2026.
When the change takes effect, Eure will join 52 other French departments that have partially or fully reinstated the 90 km/h limit on certain secondary roads.
Read here about Speed Cameras in France.
What Does This Mean for UK Drivers?
If you regularly drive through Normandy on your way to other parts of France—or if you plan to explore the region—it’s essential to stay aware of varying speed limits. While 80 km/h remains the default limit for secondary roads across France, more departments are introducing exceptions where 90 km/h is permitted. These roads will always be clearly signposted.
For UK holidaymakers travelling through Normandy, the change means a slightly quicker journey on some rural roads, but also a greater need to stay alert for signage indicating different speed limits.
Why Is the Limit Changing?
The decision to revert to 90 km/h is highly debated in France. Some argue that the lower 80 km/h limit reduced accidents and should remain in place for safety and environmental reasons. Others, including Eure’s local council, believe that the lower limit has been frustrating for drivers and may have actually led to riskier overtaking manoeuvres.
Eure’s council president, Alexandre Rassaërt, stated that many drivers are frustrated by constantly changing speed limits, and a clearer ruleset—50 km/h in towns, 70 km/h on certain roads, and 90 km/h on approved secondary routes—will be easier to follow.
Other Departments Considering Changes
Eure isn’t alone. Gard and Morbihan are also considering raising speed limits on some of their roads. This means that more regions in France could soon allow speeds of 90 km/h on certain rural routes.
How to Know the Speed Limit When Driving in France
With speed limits varying by department, how can you be sure you’re driving legally? Read our page of French Road Signs.
Here’s what UK drivers should remember:
- The default limit remains 80 km/h on secondary roads unless otherwise signposted.
- Any road with a 90 km/h limit will have clear signage to indicate this exception.
- Pay attention when crossing into a different department—speed limits can change without warning.
Stay Up to Date Before Your Trip
If you’re planning to drive in Normandy or beyond, always check the latest road regulations before setting off. Keep an eye on local signage, and remember that speed cameras are widely used on French roads.
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