Car Insurance in France: A Comprehensive Guide for Residents and Visitors
Introduction
Driving in France, whether as a resident or a foreign visitor, requires not just a valid driving license and a roadworthy vehicle—but also car insurance, which is a legal obligation under French law. With strict requirements and a well-regulated market, understanding the intricacies of car insurance in France is essential for anyone operating a vehicle in the country. This article provides an in-depth guide to the types of car insurance available in France, legal requirements, how premiums are calculated, and key tips for drivers.
Is Car Insurance Mandatory in France?
Yes. Car insurance is mandatory in France for any vehicle that is driven or parked on public roads. The minimum legal requirement is “assurance au tiers” (third-party liability insurance), which covers damages caused to other people or property in the event of an accident. Driving without insurance is a criminal offense and can result in:
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A fine of up to €3,750
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Vehicle confiscation
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License suspension or cancellation
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Even imprisonment in serious cases
Regardless of how often the vehicle is used—even if it is not driven regularly—insurance must still be maintained if the vehicle is registered and road-legal.
Types of Car Insurance in France
French car insurance is divided into three main categories:
1. Assurance au Tiers (Third-Party Liability Insurance)
This is the minimum legal requirement. It covers:
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Injuries or death of third parties
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Damage to other vehicles or property
It does not cover damage to your own vehicle or injuries you suffer in an accident you caused.
2. Assurance au Tiers Étendu (Extended Third-Party Insurance)
Also known as “tiers plus”, this mid-level policy includes third-party liability plus additional coverage, such as:
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Fire and theft
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Natural disasters (storms, floods)
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Broken windows or vandalism
It's a middle-ground solution for drivers looking for more protection without paying for full coverage.
3. Assurance Tous Risques (Comprehensive Insurance)
This is the most extensive coverage and includes everything in third-party plus:
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Damage to your own vehicle regardless of fault
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Accidental damage
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Personal injury protection
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Legal assistance
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Roadside assistance
While it’s more expensive, “tous risques” is ideal for new, high-value, or financed vehicles and offers peace of mind in almost any scenario.
Optional Add-Ons (Garanties Optionnelles)
French insurers offer several optional coverages that can be added to your policy:
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Legal protection (protection juridique): Covers legal fees and assistance after an accident.
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Driver protection (garantie du conducteur): Covers medical costs or compensation for the insured driver if injured in an accident.
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Roadside assistance (assistance 0 km): Provides breakdown support even from your home.
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No-claims bonus protection: Maintains your bonus despite a claim.
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Theft and vandalism: Enhanced coverage for high-crime areas.
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Natural disaster coverage: Mandatory when declared by the French government.
How Car Insurance Premiums Are Calculated in France
Several factors influence the cost of car insurance in France:
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Driver’s age and experience: Younger drivers (under 25) or those with fewer years of driving history typically pay higher premiums.
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Location: Rates are higher in cities due to increased risk of theft and accidents.
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Vehicle type: Luxury cars, sports cars, or older cars without modern safety features may cost more to insure.
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Intended use: Business use, daily commuting, or long-distance travel can impact the price.
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No-claims bonus (bonus-malus system): A reward system where safe drivers receive discounts over time, and at-fault drivers face surcharges.
The Bonus-Malus System (No-Claims Discount)
France operates a bonus-malus system, which adjusts insurance premiums based on your driving history:
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After each claim-free year, your premium is reduced by 5%.
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The maximum bonus is 50% after 13 years of no claims.
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If you cause an accident, your premium may increase by 25% or more.
This system heavily rewards safe driving and is a significant factor in long-term insurance costs.
Insurance for Foreigners and Expats
If you are a foreigner living in France or a long-term visitor, you must insure your vehicle with a French provider if:
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You are residing in France more than six months per year
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You have registered your vehicle in France
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You plan to drive regularly on French roads
Temporary visitors from the EU may use their existing insurance policies with a Green Card for up to 90 days. Visitors from outside the EU, such as the U.S. or Canada, should check with their insurer or consider short-term French insurance.
Popular Car Insurance Providers in France
Some of the most well-known car insurance companies in France include:
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AXA – Offers wide coverage options and is popular among expats.
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MAIF – A mutual insurer often chosen by teachers and public workers.
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MACIF – Known for competitive pricing and good customer service.
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Groupama – Offers bundled insurance and rural coverage.
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Allianz France – Well-established global insurer with local services.
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Direct Assurance – An online insurer with flexible, digital-based policies.
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April International – Often used by foreigners and expatriates.
Required Documents to Get Car Insurance in France
To obtain car insurance in France, you will typically need:
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Driver’s license (French or international)
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Carte grise (vehicle registration document)
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Proof of address
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Banking information (RIB) for direct debits
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Driving history or proof of previous coverage, including bonus-malus record
What Happens After an Accident?
After a car accident in France, the following steps are usually taken:
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Complete a “constat amiable” – a jointly agreed accident report form used by insurers.
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Take photos and document the scene.
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Notify your insurer within 5 days.
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Repairs and compensation are handled based on fault and coverage.
If the parties disagree, insurers investigate further. French law emphasizes cooperation between drivers, and most minor incidents are settled efficiently through the insurance system.
Cost of Car Insurance in France
As of 2025, the average cost of car insurance in France is:
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Basic third-party cover: €400–€600 annually
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Extended third-party: €600–€800 annually
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Comprehensive cover: €800–€1,200+ annually
Prices vary significantly based on age, location, vehicle, and driving history.
Tips for Saving on Car Insurance in France
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Compare multiple quotes online before choosing a provider.
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Increase your deductible (franchise) to lower premiums.
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Bundle policies (home and car insurance) for discounts.
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Install safety features like alarms or trackers.
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Drive responsibly to maintain or build a bonus.
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Avoid high-performance or imported cars, which can be expensive to insure.
Electric and Hybrid Car Insurance
France is promoting eco-friendly transportation, and many insurers offer discounts for electric or hybrid vehicles. In some cases, these vehicles also qualify for tax breaks and lower registration costs.
Conclusion
Car insurance in France is more than a legal formality—it’s a crucial part of responsible driving. From the mandatory third-party cover to comprehensive protection, the French insurance system is structured, efficient, and accessible. Whether you're a local resident, an expatriate, or a long-term visitor, understanding how to navigate car insurance in France ensures both legal compliance and financial peace of mind.
Always research your options, compare policies, and consider your specific driving needs before choosing a plan. With the right coverage, you'll be prepared for whatever the French roads may bring.