No, lane splitting remains illegal in France under the Code de la route (Article R412-10), with no legislative changes expected before 2026. French traffic laws prohibit motorcyclists from filtering between lanes, classifying it as a délit de circulation (traffic offense) punishable by fines up to €135 and potential license suspension. The Sécurité Routière (National Road Safety Agency) and Gendarmerie Nationale actively enforce this prohibition, citing safety risks in dense urban traffic. While neighboring countries like Belgium and Germany permit limited filtering, France maintains a zero-tolerance stance, rejecting proposals for experimental trials despite lobbying from motorcycle advocacy groups such as the Fédération Française des Motards en Colère.
Key Regulations for Lane Splitting in France
- Prohibition Under Article R412-10: The Code de la route explicitly bans motorcyclists from overtaking between lanes, treating it as a délit (criminal offense) rather than a minor infraction. This applies to all two-wheeled vehicles, including scooters and mopeds.
- Enforcement by Gendarmerie Nationale: Traffic officers issue fines (€135) and may impose 3-point license deductions for violations. Urban areas with high motorcycle density (e.g., Paris, Lyon) see stricter enforcement during rush hours.
- No Exemptions for Low-Speed Filtering: Even at speeds under 30 km/h, lane splitting is illegal. The Sécurité Routière argues that such maneuvers increase collision risks with cars suddenly changing lanes or opening doors.