Foreign Office Updates UK Drivers Heading to the Alps & Pyrenees

7th October 2024

British travellers heading to France this winter have been issued an update by the UK Foreign Office.

Those who are planning on driving in the mountain regions are warned that they could face a fine if they don’t comply with seasonal motoring rules, the UK Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office has said.

It has recently issued an update on the requirements drivers face in the mountains.

“Vehicles driven in certain mountain regions during the winter period, 1st November to 31st March, must be fitted with winter tyres or chains,” said the FCDO.

People not complying could be fined.

The French authorities say the rules are in place “in order to improve road traffic in the mountainous regions and the safety of users”.

Drivers should also look out for signs at entrances and exits from mountainous areas where the winter equipment rules apply.

Similar rules apply across the alpine countries with Austria requiring winter tyres.

Switzerland and Italy also have their own rules and regulations for driving in the mountains in winter.

The Tirol, Austria. Image © PlanetSKI