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Driving in the Île-de-France region and Paris means you need to plan ahead for the 2026 regulations: Low Emission Zones (LEZ), Low Traffic Zones (LTZ) and eco-friendly choices. This guide helps you navigate parking, car hire and motoring events.
It’s very simple: depending on where you’re coming from, you’ll arrive at one of the 30 junctions along the 35 km of ring road. Depending on which part of the city you wish to reach, you can choose between the inner ring road (clockwise) and the outer ring road (anti-clockwise).
Traffic flow and journey times between the gates are displayed on large illuminated signs. Exits for each gate are signposted well in advance so you won’t miss them, so don’t forget to move into the right-hand lane. The speed limit has been 50 km/h since 1 October 2024. To plan your journey, feel free to check real-time traffic conditions on the City of Paris’s official website or via your usual navigation tools.
France has an extensive toll motorway network, which extends into neighbouring countries. Toll charges vary depending on the motorway, the distance travelled and the type of vehicle. As of 1 February 2026, tolls have seen a moderate increase, averaging 0.86% across the main concession networks.
Since 2025, Paris has been strengthening its measures to improve air quality with two restricted zones:
The metropolitan LEZ covers 77 municipalities in Greater Paris within the A86 ring road. The Crit'Air sticker is mandatory and must be displayed on your windscreen.
Stickers authorised Monday to Friday (8am–8pm):
| Sticker | Vehicle type | Authorised traffic |
|---|---|---|
| Crit'Air 0 | Electric, hydrogen | ✅ Yes |
| Crit'Air 1 | Petrol post-2011, hybrid | ✅ Yes |
| Crit'Air 2 | Diesel post-2011, petrol 2006–2010 | ✅ Yes |
| Crit'Air 3 | Diesel 2006–2010, petrol 1997–2005 | ❌ No (24-hour pass available) |
| Crit'Air 4 & 5 | Vintage vehicles | ❌ No |
Pre-2011 diesel cars are banned on weekdays (8am–8pm). Crit'Air 3 vehicles are eligible for a 24-hour ZFE Pass allowing them to drive 24 days a year. In the event of a pollution peak, additional restrictions apply. The grace period during which no fines are issued continues until the end of 2026.
The historic centre (1st to 4th arrondissements) prohibits through traffic. You may enter if your destination is within the zone upon presentation of proof. This measure aims to promote sustainable transport and ensure peace and quiet for residents.
In Paris, electric vehicles weighing less than 2 tonnes are entitled to free on-street parking. The Indigo and Saemes underground car parks operate numerous sites equipped with charging points and offer booking via the Indigo Neo app to get the best rates.
The Belib network has over 2,000 charging points accessible 24 hours a day across the capital, allowing for fast or slow charging depending on your needs. These charging points are not considered standard parking spaces.
To drive without restrictions in the Low Emission Zone (LEZ), opt for Crit’Air 0 or 1 electric vehicles. BSP Auto, a car hire broker, allows you to compare offers from the main hire companies at Parisian stations and airports. Use online comparison sites to get the best rates and book your electric car before you arrive.
Travelling to Paris by car can be done in a more economical and eco-friendly way:
Every two years, Paris celebrates a passion for cars with prestigious events. The Paris Motor Show at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, showcasing the latest electric innovations.
In May, the Tour Auto sets off from Paris to Biarritz with its legendary classic cars. Rétromobile brings together collectors and enthusiasts in February at the Porte de Versailles. Fancy something a bit different? Discover Paris in a unique vehicle (2CV, classic car).
The Paris City Pass is the official pass for Paris. It is entirely digital and has its own dedicated app. Available in three options, the Paris City Pass gives you access to a wide range of activities: museums, Parisian monuments, cruises, guided tours...
From €65
