In France, the law provides for certain documents that drivers must always have on board their car. These serve to ensure the regularity of the vehicle and the identification of the driver in the event of inspection by the competent authorities. So let’s see what these documents are. And what are the consequences if you don’t have them in your possession.
Mandatory documents in the car
The driving license is, generally, the first document to present in the event of control by law enforcement.
However, as indicated AutoPlusFebruary 14, 2024 the Minister of the Interior announced a significant development. In fact, this involves the generalization of the France Identity application and the integration of the digital driving license. The latter can be presented during a road check in France.
The digital driving license is an electronic version of the driving license. You can store and present it on a smartphone. And this, rather than having it in your car in the form of a paper document.
This digital document has entered into force to offer a more practical and modern solution to drivers. It therefore allows them to have access to their driving license in digital format on their phone or tablet.
If you do not have the digital license, another solution is the Safe Driving Rights Certificate (ADCS).
To read
This reflex that we all have in the car is punishable by a hefty fine
ADCS, accessible via the platform “My Permitted Points”, is valid for 4 months from its date of issue. You can present it in paper or electronic format. However, this certificate is only valid on French territory.
For drivers who have just obtained their driving license, the driving license examination certificate (CEPC) with a favorable mention is accepted in lieu of the permit.
In case of loss or theft, you can then present an ADCS. Or the receipt for declaration of loss or theft, valid for a maximum of two months.
Other documents to present
By car, you are required to have another document: the registration certificate or gray card. Please note that, even if the car does not belong to you, you must present this document.
Regarding a car of short-term rental, a copy of the registration document will then be sufficient.
If your car or other vehicle is in the process of being registered, the provisional registration certificate (CPI) constitutes a valid alternative.
Furthermore, for vehicles subject to technical inspection, the registration document can be used as proof. Provided that it bears the corresponding stamp or mentions the expiry date of the check.
To read
Driving license under vigilance: towards compulsory declaration for those over 65?
As you will have understood, the registration certificate or vehicle registration document is therefore a fundamental document to always have with you in the car. It is he who therefore certifies the ability of the vehicle to travel on the road. The prefecture of your department will then issue it to you, at the time of registration. And you must therefore present it upon request of the police in the event of an inspection.
Some drivers must also present additional documents depending on their situation. For example, for those who practice accompanied driving, the accompanying person must have their driving license or an ADCS.
In the event of an inspection, not having the mandatory documents may result in sanctions, such as a fine or immobilization of the vehicle. It is therefore essential to keep these papers in an easily accessible placelike a wallet or glove box, in the car.
For dematerialized versions, you must then ensure that your cell phone has sufficient battery charge.
