New zones for 2020 will include the departments of Loire (Saint-Etienne), the Pays de la Loire region and cities such as Nancy.

The LEZs throughout France are mostly in city centres and usually activated only at times of peak pollution.

Since 2017, drivers visiting France have been required to display a Crit’Air vignette sticker on the windscreen, which certifies the vehicle’s emissions class. There are six different types of certificate, each differently coloured. Crit’Air 1 is for the cleanest vehicles, up to 6 for the highest-polluting vehicles.

Where LEZs operate, some vehicles may be able to drive only with the appropriate Air Quality Certificate sticker for the local conditions displayed on the windscreen.

To apply for a Crit’Air sticker, which costs just a few Euros, visit certificat-air.gouv.fr/en. Driving in a low emission zone without displaying a Crit’Air sticker could lead to an on-the-spot fine.
All members taking their vehicle to France are advised to obtain a Crit’Air sticker for their windscreen, as it is cheap, easy to obtain, and valid for the lifetime of the vehicle.

Visit the Help and Advice section of the Club website for more information.