Cross-border route
Switzerland France
Switzerland 
FranceDriving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Switzerland 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 A40/A1 corridor crosses at Geneva, one of Europe's busiest road borders.
Last reviewed June 2026
Route at a glance
FromSwitzerland
ToFrance
IDP in FranceRequired
Accepted formatBoth
Driving sideright (no change)
Currency in FranceEUR
Switzerland → France
Crossing the border
The A40/A1 corridor crosses at Geneva, one of Europe's busiest road borders.
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
01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Switzerland 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.
02
Does the driving side change between Switzerland and France?
No. Both Switzerland and France drive on the right.
03
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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