TunnelFrance
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.
12. Tunnel
A tunnel is a covered passage that carries a road through or beneath an obstacle such as a hill, mountain, building, waterway or another transport route. Road tunnels may contain one or more traffic lanes and can carry traffic in one or both directions.
Driving in a tunnel requires particular attention because visibility, available escape routes and space for avoiding hazards are limited. Drivers should follow the applicable lighting, speed, lane and following-distance rules and pay attention to emergency exits, traffic signals and variable-message signs.
Wikimedia.org • Marc Mongenet • CC BY-SA
Does a tunnel sign in France set a universal speed limit?
No single speed can be read from the tunnel pictogram. Apply the road’s relevant limit and any permanent or electronic speed restriction, and drive more slowly when visibility, queues or another hazard require it.
Start of a tunnel.
English • Traffic sign C111 • Tunnel entrance. In this tunnel, U-turns, stopping and parking are prohibited outside the designated emergency stopping places under article R. 417-10 of the Highway Code, and dipped headlights are compulsory.
Français • Panneau C111 • Entrée d'un tunnel. Ce panneau indique l'entrée d'un tunnel où il est interdit de faire demi-tour, de s'arrêter et de stationner en dehors des emplacements d'arrêt d'urgence prévus à cet effet en application de l'article R. 417-10 du code de la route et où l'allumage des feux de croisement est obligatoire.
🔗 Sources
🔗 Commons.wikimedia.org
🔗 Equipementsdelaroute.cerema.fr • Arrêté du 24 novembre 1967 Source : Roulex 45 • Domaine public • SVG original non modifié.
Image via Commons.wikimedia.org
Roulex 45 self-made from source above • Public domain • Source revision 2009-07-26. Wikimedia original unmodified.
Is every tunnel in France open to pedestrians and cyclists?
No. Check the road category and access signs before entering. A motorway tunnel, a vehicle-restricted tunnel and a purpose-built walking or cycling underpass have different access arrangements. Emergency evacuation routes do not establish ordinary public access.

Traffic rules
France