European Breakdown Cover in France

The best cover you can get* – plus a FREE 20-point car health check†

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*Comparison based on RAC Extra European Breakdown Cover against the top level of cover from other major providers as of 16/05/2023.
†Ends 13/12/23, 9am. Bookings subject to garage availability.

Breakdown cover in France

If you’re driving to France, breakdown cover isn’t a legal requirement. But if you have car trouble while you’re away, it can definitely come in handy. For example, if you get a puncture and don’t have a spare, you can easily call for English-speaking help. If your car breaks down and you need to be towed to a garage, you’ll be covered for recovery costs.

UK breakdown cover doesn’t usually cover you in Europe – unless you’ve bought European cover as an add-on. That means you’ll need to buy a separate European breakdown cover policy before you go. Browse our breakdown cover in France for a single trip, or annual cover.

Get holiday-ready with a FREE 20-point car health check†, for complete peace of mind whilst driving in France. And, if you choose our Extra cover, you’ll have the best cover on the market*. Complete peace of mind, for less.

24/7 English-speaking helpline

Rapid rescue
Help in 46 minutes on average, in France

Five star Defaqto rated cover

To make sure you’re in the know about France breakdown cover and what to do if you break down in France,  read our handy guide below. 

Contents:

What happens if I break down in France?
What to do if you break down on the motorway in France
Important contact numbers
Preparing for your visit to France
What are the driving rules in France?
Things to carry in your vehicle
Other considerations before you go

 
defaqto five star rating

FREE car health check†

Standard

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  • Cover level – Comprehensive
  • Roadside Assistance in Europe
  • We’ll pay up to £150 towards garage labour costs. Provided repairs are completed on the same working day
  • Get up to £500 accommodation expenses or up to £1,500 to continue your journey
  • We’ll pay up to the market value of your vehicle to get it back to the UK, providing it’s not beyond economical repair
  • If your vehicle can’t be fixed before you’re due to return, we’ll help get you and any passenger's home up to £1,500
  • Get 2 days’ UK Roadside Assistance before you depart, for all breakdowns over a ¼ of a mile from home
  • 24/7 English-speaking helpline
  • FREE European Legal Care
  • Replacement train/ferry ticket for up to 1 missed connection, if the delay is caused by a breakdown
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defaqto five star rating

FREE car health check†

Extra

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  • Cover level – Comprehensive Plus
  • Roadside Assistance in Europe
  • We'll pay up to £1,000 towards garage labour costs. Provided repairs are completed within 7 working hours
  • Up to £1,200 accommodation expenses and/or up to £3,000 to continue your journey
  • We’ll cover all costs to get your vehicle to get it back to the UK, providing it’s not beyond economical repair
  • If your vehicle can’t be fixed before you’re due to return, we’ll help get you and any passenger's home up to £3,000
  • Get 7 days’ UK Roadside Assistance before you depart, for all breakdowns over a ¼ of a mile from home
  • 24/7 English-speaking helpline
  • FREE European Legal Care
  • Replacement train/ferry tickets for up to 3 missed connections, if the delay is caused by a breakdown
Buy now  
†Ends 13/12/23, 9am. Bookings subject to garage availability.

What happens if I break down in France?

If you break down in France, what you do next depends on whether or not you have European breakdown cover.

If you have RAC European Breakdown Cover:

  1. Call the RAC’s English-speaking helpline on 0033 472 4352 44 (from a UK mobile), or 0800 942 044 (from a French landline only) – lines are open 24/7
  2. Our team will arrange roadside assistance for you
  3. When help arrives, they’ll fix your vehicle at the roadside or tow you to the nearest garage for further repairs
  4. Depending on what level of cover you have, we’ll also pay towards garage labour costs, onward travel expenses and accommodation fees while your car’s being fixed

If you break down on the motorway (‘Autoroute’), it works little differently. Find out more.

If you don’t have European breakdown cover:

  • You’ll need to find a recovery company to come out to you and tow you to a garage if needed
  • If your car needs repairs at a garage, you’ll have to find a garage nearby
  • In addition, you’ll need to cover all recovery and labour costs yourself

What to do if you break down on the motorway in France

If you break down on the motorway (‘Autoroute’) in France, call for help using the nearest orange emergency phone – even if you have European breakdown cover in place. This is because French motorways are privately managed.

Here’s what to do if you break down on the motorway in France:

  1. Don’t call the RAC – instead, use one of the orange emergency telephones positioned every 2 km along the motorway
  2. If you can’t get to one of these orange phones, call the emergency services on 112
  3. The emergency services will send help and you’ll be towed to safety
  4. Once you’ve been towed to a designated safe area, call the RAC on 0033 472 4352 44
  5. We’ll send assistance and talk you through next steps

Important contact numbers

If you're driving to France, keep important phone numbers stored in your contacts, including:

RAC European Breakdown
from anywhere in Europe

0033 472 4352 44

RAC European Breakdown
from a French landline only

0800 942 044

Emergency Services

112

British Embassy in Paris

0033 144 5131 00

If you’re travelling to a hotel or other accommodation, it’s also useful to have contact numbers relating to these as you can update on your situation.

If you’re travelling to Europe for a short trip, check out our single trip European breakdown cover product today.

Preparing for your visit to France

Make sure you have the right kit with you when you’re driving in France. In Europe you can be fined up to €530 for not having the right driving equipment in your car. Check what you need, and get a European Driving Kit from us before you set off to make sure you don’t get caught out.

It’s important to check your car is in good working condition before you travel, to make sure the chances of breaking down in France are low. Prevention is always better than a cure, and there are steps drivers can take to reduce the chances of requiring roadside assistance:

Check your tyres

This is one of the most important maintenance tasks you can carry out on your car. Check your tyre tread yourself or get them assessed by a professional. Worn tyres can be dangerous, so if any are in poor condition, get them replaced.

Windscreen wipers

Before travelling, check your windscreen wipers are in good condition, free of any tears. If they’re damaged, they won’t operate properly, which can affect your driving.

Check your oil and coolant levels

Measure and top up the screen wash, oil and coolant levels in your car. It’s worth carrying extra to top up during your journey, especially if you’re driving long distances.

Fill up with fuel

Ensure you have a full tank of fuel. Of course, you’ll be able to refuel when driving in France but you’re likely to be on unfamiliar roads. So filling up your tank before travelling will give you one less thing to worry about.

Get your vehicle serviced

If you’re driving in France for longer than a couple of weeks, you might want to get your car serviced at a garage before you leave the UK. Find your nearest RAC approved garage today.

Read more about driving in France with our country guide here.

What our members are saying

Roadside van came out. to where we were staying on holiday. response time was excellent . he took the time & effort to diagnose an intermittent injector wiring fault. he fixed the car so we could continue our holiday. parts are no on order to make a proper repair.

Dave B

Completely fabulous! The response was fast and the rescue efficient. Every attempt was made to communicate each step clearly and each stage of the plan. This enabled less panic and more focus. I couldn’t have asked for more. Been a member for over a decade and probably only needed help 3 times and each time I’ve had a very positive experience so thank you very much.

TC

Have been a member for over 50 years covering the UK and Europe and have never been let down despite needing the service in France, Germany, Spain and the UK.

Mr Holmes

What are the driving rules in France?

The rules of the road in Europe differ to those in the UK and France is no different, so make sure you read up on these before you travel.

Here are some of the most critical laws when driving in France:

  • Drive on the right and overtake on the left
  • At intersections, drivers give way to vehicles approaching from their right (unless the roundabout is the old-fashioned version, in which case you give way from the left. Most roundabouts in France have been now upgraded, however read more about it in this article.)
  • Only sound the horn sparingly
  • Seats belts are compulsory for drivers and all passengers
  • It’s illegal to drive in France wearing headphones
  • Children under the age of 10 can’t travel on the front passenger seat without a special child restraint
  • Speed limits vary depending on the type of road and weather conditions – for more details on that and rules of road, read our Driving in France guide

You can also read our top ten tips for driving in France.

Things to carry in your vehicle

When driving in France you are required by law to carry the following items:

  • Reflective jackets (one for each occupant, these must be kept inside the vehicle within easy reach)
  • Warning triangle (compulsory in every vehicle with 4 wheels or more)
  • Headlamp beam deflectors (depending on your car, you will either need deflector stickers or have to adjust the beam manually)
  • Breathalysers/alcohol test (as of January 2013 the proposed €11 fine for not carrying one has been postponed indefinitely, however, law still states that drivers of motor vehicles and motorcyclists must have an alcotest ready for use in their vehicle)
  • A UK sticker (if your vehicle’s registration doesn’t have a UK identifier)
  • Spare bulbs (by law you’re also mandated to carry a spare bulb kit for your vehicle, as the French police deem it necessary to replace it there and then on the grounds of safety. For a few pounds to buy a kit, you could avoid unwanted attention and a fine)
  • Snow chains (may also be needed in some areas during winter. These areas will be indicated by signs and are compulsory, so it is worth having them in your car if your visiting during winter)
Our European driving kit will have all of these items – a simple purchase can help you avoid hefty on-the-spot fines.

Other considerations before your French holiday

Aside from driving, there are other considerations to think about before heading off on your holiday in France. You should have travel insurance in place, covering the dates of your holiday. Browse RAC Travel Insurance today.

Inform your bank, too. You may be using your debit and/or credit card while in France, so they need to be aware of any possible upcoming transactions. Contact your mobile phone provider – check on call and SMS rates while in France, and any roaming charges you might incur.

Stay prepared all year round with European breakdown cover.

Driving in France FAQs

What do you need for driving in France?
When driving in France, you’ll need:
- A full, valid UK driving licence
- Proof of ID (passport)
- Motor insurance certificate
- V5 registration document
- A UK sticker, unless your number plate already features one (‘GB’ identifiers are no longer valid)
- Reflective jackets for each passenger
- Warning triangle
- Headlamp beam deflectors (if you can’t adjust the beam manually)
- Breathalyser/alcohol test
- French ‘clean air’ sticker (Crit’Air vignette) in certain cities
- Snow chains in certain areas during winter
- Safety helmets for motorcyclists and their passengers
 
Do you need a European Driving Kit in France?
There are some things drivers in France are required by law to carry:
- Reflective jackets for each passenger
- Warning triangle
- Headlamp beam deflectors (if you can’t adjust the beam manually)
- Breathalyser/alcohol test
 

You can buy each one separately, or get the items you need in a handy European Driving Kit.

In some areas during winter, snow chains are compulsory. Spare bulbs are also recommended. Motorcyclists will need safety helmets for themselves and their passengers. Find out more about what you need to bring when driving in France.

Can I drive in France after Brexit?
Yes, you can still drive in France after Brexit. Your licence will be recognised within France as long as it is valid.
Can I drive in France with a UK licence?
Yes, you can drive in France with a UK licence as long as it's valid. If you intend to stay in France for longer than one year and your licence was issued after January 2021, you'll need to exchange your UK licence to a French licence.
Do I need a GB or UK sticker to drive in France?

If you’re driving in France with a vehicle registered in the UK, it must display the letters ‘UK’. If your number plate doesn’t have this UK ‘identifier’, you’ll need a UK sticker.

Since 28th September 2021, the identifier displayed for UK registered vehicles driving abroad has now changed from GB to UK. The identifier can be incorporated in vehicle number plates (along with the Union Flag) or as a separate sticker. Remember, a number plate or sticker with the letters GB together with the Council of Europe golden stars isn’t valid for driving abroad, unless you’ve got a UK sticker too.

Find out more about the documents you’ll need for driving in France.

Am I covered if I cross the border out of France?
That depends on your level of France breakdown cover. RAC European Breakdown Cover covers 48 countries but operates in zones. If you’re covered for breakdown in Zone 1, that covers you when driving in France and also Belgium, Luxembourg and Germany – but not Spain or Italy, so if you plan to cross the border and into those countries, you’ll need to get cover for driving in Zone 2.
How long can you keep a UK car in France?
You can drive UK registered cars in France for 6 to 12 months. This only applies if you have the right to be in France for this length of time.
Is driving difficult in France?

In some rural parts of France, the priority to the right rule still exists. This means that cars coming out of side roads take priority here, so be particularly careful when driving in these areas.

It’s important to understand the laws and rules of the road if you plan on driving while on holiday. Read our article on driving in France to find out what you need to know before your next trip.

Can I drive to France with a UK paper license?
Yes, as long as it’s valid. Paper licenses are usually valid until you turn 70.
Do you need an international driver's licence in France to rent a car?
No, you do not need an international driver’s license if you plan to rent a car in France.
Do I need a green card to drive in France?

You do not need a green card to drive in France.

You will need car insurance, so make sure to check with your insurer if your UK policy covers you while board.

France Breakdown Cover FAQs

Is it a legal requirement to have breakdown cover in France?
It’s not a legal requirement to have breakdown cover when driving in France. But if you have car trouble while away, having cover can save you time and money.
What is the breakdown callout time in France?
Our average time to attend to a breakdown in France is 46 minutes – and 93% of calls were answered within 15 seconds.
Can RAC provide me with a replacement vehicle?
Yes – RAC Standard and Extra European Breakdown Cover both provide a hire car if required. RAC Standard European Breakdown can provide a hire car for six days, while Extra can provide a hire car for 23 days. Terms and conditions apply.

More reasons to choose the RAC

We’ll cover the cost to a local garage with unlimited European roadside assistance.

Best cover you can you get* when driving in Europe.

In France, we’ll get to you within 46 minutes on average.

We repair 60% of all breakdowns at the roadside in France.

*Comparison based on RAC Extra European Breakdown Cover against the top level of cover from other major providers as of 16/05/23.

Find out what the RAC offers that the AA and Green Flag don't.

  

For more information about our European breakdown cover please refer to our Insurance Product Information Document or our terms & conditions.

  

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Download and complete a claim form within 90 days of your planned return date.

  

Get 14 days’ European breakdown cover for £4.17 a day^

  

Drive to Europe on a regular basis? Then annual European cover will give you complete peace of mind all year round.

  

If you’re driving in Germany, it’s important that you have European breakdown cover in place to provide roadside recovery and assistance should you need it.

  

Before driving in Spain, prepare properly by understanding the road rules, checking your vehicle and arranging the right level of breakdown cover.

  

If you’re planning on driving in the Republic of Ireland, then you need to be prepared – here’s our guide to European breakdown cover.

  

If you’re planning on driving in Italy, then you need to be prepared – here’s the RAC guide to European breakdown cover and rules of the road.

  

The RAC is a leading provider of European breakdown cover. But, how does it compare to The AA? Find out here.

  

The RAC is a leading provider of European breakdown cover. But, how does it compare to Green Flag? Find out here.

  
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03 numbers are charged at national call rates and included in inclusive minute plans from landlines and mobiles. Calls may be monitored and/or recorded.

*Comparison based on RAC Extra European Breakdown Cover against the top level of cover from other major providers as of 16/05/23. For full details visit rac.co.uk/eurocompare. 

†Free vehicle health check (‘Health Check’) terms and conditions:

  1. The promotion is for one vehicle health check per policy.
  2. Available for customers purchasing RAC European Breakdown Cover online by 13/12/23, 9am.
  3. This Health Check can only be redeemed at an RAC garage when booked through the online RAC health check booking system.
  4. Providing you haven’t cancelled your cover you'll receive an email within 3 working days containing details on how to book your Health Check. Your Health Check will remain valid for 12 months from the date of this email.
  5. The Health Check date is subject to garage availability. In order to allow sufficient time for booking, we recommend booking your travel cover as soon as possible.
  6. This Health Check is for information only and does not include the cost of any repairs or services identified.
  7. Health Check findings are correct at the time of inspection. RAC is not liable for any acts or omissions of the Garage and/or Mechanic completing this Health Check.
  8. This Health Check is not confirmation of the vehicle’s roadworthiness and/or that the vehicle fulfils all the legal requirements to be used on the highway. This Health Check is not a full inspection and should not be used to confirm the vehicle’s condition prior to sale. This Health Check is not, and does not replace, an MOT. You should always ensure your vehicle has a current MOT test certificate.

^Price for 14 days Standard cover, travelling in Zone 1. For a vehicle up to 1 year old.

RAC European Breakdown Cover arranged and administered by RAC Financial Services Limited (Registered No 05171817) and provided by RAC Insurance Ltd (Registered No 2355834). Registered in England and Wales; Registered Offices: RAC House, Brockhurst Crescent, Walsall WS5 4AW. RAC Financial Services Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. RAC Insurance Ltd is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

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