RoadworksFrance
An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of France. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.
For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.
45. Roadworks
Roadworks are construction, maintenance, repair or inspection activities carried out on or beside a road. They may temporarily change the road layout, lane widths, speed limits, priority, permitted directions and facilities for pedestrians or cyclists.
Drivers must follow the temporary signs, traffic lights, barriers, road markings and instructions from authorised personnel. They should reduce speed, increase their following distance and remain prepared for narrow lanes, stopped traffic, workers, machinery and sudden changes in the route.
Wikimedia.org • Chabe01 • CC BY-SA
What should you watch for when approaching roadworks in France?
Look for temporary warnings, cones, barriers, narrow lanes and construction vehicles. Road layouts can change temporarily, including lane shifts, traffic-light control and short one-way sections. Expect workers and slow or stationary traffic near the worksite.
🔗 legifrance.gouv.fr • French Road Code — R411-25, R412-30, R413-1, R413-17; 1967 order articles 3–5
Is a temporary speed limit at roadworks binding in France?
Where an authorised temporary regulatory speed limit is in force, you must obey it. A roadworks warning alone should not be mistaken for a new numerical limit, but conditions may require driving more slowly.
🔗 legifrance.gouv.fr • French Road Code — R411-25, R412-30, R413-1, R413-17; 1967 order articles 3–5
What if only one lane remains open through roadworks in France?
Follow the temporary signals, stop/go instructions, lane arrows and priority signs. Do not enter an opposing traffic lane until permitted, and give vulnerable road users and road workers extra room.
🔗 legifrance.gouv.fr • French Road Code — R411-25, R412-30, R413-1, R413-17; 1967 order articles 3–5
Warning for roadworks.
English • Traffic sign AK5 • Roadworks. Temporary sign.
Français • Panneau AK5 • Travaux. Signalisation temporaire.
🔗 Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Legifrance.gouv.fr • Arrêté du 24 novembre 1967 • article 9 Source : Roulex 45 • CC BY-SA 3.0 • SVG original non modifié.
Image via Commons.wikimedia.org
Roulex 45 • CC BY-SA 3.0 • Source revision 2014-09-04. Wikimedia original unmodified.

Traffic rules
France