European Driving
Possible changes to rules for bikers in France
You may have heard reports that the French will introduce some new safety rules later this year, including some for motorcyclists that could affect visiting bikers as well as locals.
Compulsory wearing of hi-vis jackets for motorcyclists has been mentioned alongside other more general measures including more severe penalties for excessive speeding, tighter rules on the use of speed camera warning devices and tougher penalties for drink driving and use of mobile phones while driving.
There has apparently been a very negative response from French motorists and the proposed rules are expected to be modified or even abandoned as a result.
We'll update our travel advice for France as soon as we have official confirmation of the detail and effective date for any new rules affecting UK drivers or riders.
(7 June 2011)
In this section
Driving requirements by country
From Andorra to Ukraine, local rules for drivers, including seatbelt and drink/driving laws, speed limits and headlight requirements.
General advice for driving abroad
Everything you need to know from documents and GB stickers to headlamp conversion.
Compulsory equipment
Items you should carry in your car when driving on the Continent.
International Driving Permit (IDP)
Details, requirements and how to apply.
Overseas fuel prices
Our monthly fuel price report includes a round-up of prices in Europe too.
Radar detectors in France
Radar detectors are illegal in France whether in use or not.
Tunnel safety
Keeping out of trouble / dealing with emergencies.
Blue Badge users – Parking in Europe
Details of parking concessions available to Blue Badge users driving abroad.
European low Emission Zones
More than 70 cities and towns in 8 countries around Europe already have or are preparing to launch, 'Low Emission Zones' (LEZ).
Winter tyres & snow chains
Requirements for popular winter destinations
Driving abroad in winter
Our advice if you're planning to travel by car to one of Europe's winter sport resorts.
International Certificate for Motor Vehicles (ICMV)
The ICMV is a translation of your vehicle registration document (V5) and is valid for 12 months from the date of issue.
Camping Card International (CCI)
How to get your identity card for camping abroad.
Foreign & Commonwealth Office travel advice
Check the latest safety advice for your destination before you travel.
European tolls
Search for European toll roads and charges.
11 November 2011