Cross-border route

Spain France

Driving across the border

Yes — you can drive from Spain into France, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. France expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the Both format. Both countries drive on the right, so there is no change of driving side at the border. The main motorway crossing on the Mediterranean side is at La Jonquera/Le Perthus on the A9/AP-7.

Get my permit for France France requirements

Last reviewed June 2026

Route at a glance

FromSpain

ToFrance

IDP in FranceRequired

Accepted formatBoth

Driving sideright (no change)

Currency in FranceEUR

Spain → France

Crossing the border

The main motorway crossing on the Mediterranean side is at La Jonquera/Le Perthus on the A9/AP-7.

Driving rules in France

Drive on the right; overtake on the left.
Carry a reflective vest and warning triangle in the vehicle.
Priority to the right (priorité à droite) applies at unmarked junctions.
Strict 0.05% blood-alcohol limit (0.02% for new drivers).

What to see when you arrive in France

the Eiffel Tower in Paris
the Palace of Versailles
the French Riviera
Mont Saint-Michel
the châteaux of the Loire Valley

Common questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Spain to France?

Yes — France requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. France recognises the Both format, which is what we issue.

Does the driving side change between Spain and France?

No. Both Spain and France drive on the right.

How quickly can I get an IDP for this trip?

International Driver Licence issues your digital IDP in as fast as 8 minutes, so you can have it ready before you set off.

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