All cities with more than 150,000 inhabitants have been part of the ZFE system since January 1, 2025 and are thus free to apply the associated traffic ban schedule. In view of its application, Crit'Air stickers are now compulsory for all vehicles, under penalty of a fine.
Automatic checks and a rising bill
The Crit'Air sticker is now compulsory in all towns with more than 150,000 inhabitants. Some entrances to these areas have automated cameras capable of scanning license plates to verify the vehicle category. If you drive without a sticker or with a prohibited model, the fine falls: €68 for a car, €135 for a heavy goods vehicle.
And as bad news never comes alone, the price of the Crit'Air sticker increased slightly on January 1, 2025: it goes from €3.77 to €3.81 for a shipment within mainland France and to €4.91 for a shipment outside mainland France. A minimal increase, but which is annoying given the constant rise in motorists' costs (repairs, technical inspections, insurance, fuel, tolls, etc.).
The end of the car for low-income households?
Low-income motorists are the first affected by these restrictions. Many have old vehicles that they can no longer use in large cities. For many, buying a newer or electric vehicle is simply out of reach.
Without viable alternatives, these households risk losing their ability to travel. In peri-urban or rural areas, where public transport is rare and sometimes inefficient, the car is often essential for going to work, driving the children to school or doing their shopping. Brief, the expansion of ZFEs and the obligation of Crit'Air stickers may well further aggravate inequalities within society.
A reaction? Leave a comment
Did you like this article? Subscribe to our free Newsletter for engaging articles, exclusive content and the latest news.
