Mandatory on the road
Mandatory in the car
Warning triangle
It is mandatory to have a warning triangle in the car. The use of a warning triangle in the event of a breakdown or an accident is only mandatory if it does not pose any danger. Note: It is forbidden to place a warning triangle on motorways (car routes).
Safety vest
It is mandatory to have a safety vest in the car. The driver is obliged to wear a safety vest in the event of a breakdown or an accident. The safety vest must be stored in an easily accessible place (not in the trunk). I advise drivers to bring a safety vest in the car for all occupants. Safety vests must comply with the EN471 standard within Europe (fluorescent yellow, orange or red and provided with retro-reflective strips).
Since May 2020, an alcohol test is no longer mandatory in the car.
A first-aid kit and fire extinguisher are also not required.
Advice
Spare bulbs - If a lamp breaks, you must replace it immediately. You are therefore advised to bring spare bulbs for at least the headlights, rear lights and turn signals, unless the vehicle is equipped with xenon, neon or LED lighting.
Spare wheel - Driving with a damaged wheel is prohibited and will be fined. It is recommended that you bring a spare wheel and the tools to change a tire.
When renting a car, always check that the mandatory equipment (warning triangle and safety vest) is present in the car.
Mandatory on the bike
Safety vest - Motorcyclists must have a safety vest with them on the motorcycle (they can wear this vest or keep it in, for example, a net or suitcase). The driver of a motorcycle is obliged to put on this safety vest in the event of a breakdown or an accident.
Gloves - Motorcyclists and their passengers are required to wear gloves. These must be gloves with a CE mark.
Since May 2020, taking an alcohol test is no longer mandatory for motorcyclists.
The rule that a motorcycle helmet must have reflective elements only applies to helmets sold in France.
Motorcyclists do not need to carry a warning triangle.
Mandatory on the moped, moped or speed pedelec
Safety vest - Drivers of a moped, moped or speed pedelec must have a safety vest with them (they may wear this vest or keep it in a net or suitcase, for example). The driver of a moped, moped or speed pedelec is obliged to put on this safety vest in the event of a breakdown or an accident.
Gloves - Drivers of a moped, moped or speed pedelec and their passengers are obliged to wear gloves. These must be gloves with a CE mark.