Mandatory Crit'Air stickers in French low-emission zones (ZFE)

A guide for foreign companies

The ecological transition is a priority for France and as part of this, the government is introducing a number of measures to reduce air pollution and improve people's quality of life. One of these measures is the requirement for vehicles to carry a Crit'Air sticker when driving in certain low-emission zones (Zone à Faible Emissions or ZFE). If you are a foreign company posting employees to France, it is essential to understand these regulations to avoid fines and ensure you comply with French environmental standards.

What is a Low Emission Zone (LEZ)?

Low emission zones (LEZs) are geographical areas where the circulation of certain polluting vehicles is restricted to reduce greenhouse gas and air pollutant emissions. These zones are defined by local authorities and may be located in large conurbations such as Paris, Lyon, Grenoble or Lille, but their number will increase in the coming years. As of 1 January 2025, there are now a total of 42 ZFEs. For example, if you now cross the border between Belgium and France via Rekkem or via Wervicq, you will enter the ZFE zone of Lille Métropole where CRIT'AIR has thus recently become permanently required.

Why the Crit'Air sticker?

The Crit'Air sticker, or ‘air quality certificate’, is a system introduced to identify the pollution level of vehicles based on their engine and pollutant emissions. The sticker is mandatory in ZFEs and allows local authorities to control the entry of vehicles into these zones. The sticker is divided into several categories, from 0 (for electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids) to 5 (for the most polluting vehicles).

Who does this obligation apply to?

All vehicles, whether registered in France or abroad, must comply with these rules if they drive in a ZFE. This also applies to foreign companies sending employees to France. If your employees use a personal or company vehicle in a ZFE, they must make sure it has the correct Crit'Air sticker, otherwise a fine may be imposed.

How do I obtain a Crit'Air sticker?

Obtaining the Crit'Air sticker is a quick and easy process. It can be applied for online via the French government's official website (www.certificat-air.gouv.fr). All you need to do is provide the necessary information about your vehicle, such as its registration number, make, model and engine type. A certificate will then be issued and a sticker placed on the vehicle's windscreen.

Please note: The Crit'Air sticker is issued based on the vehicle's technical characteristics, such as engine type (petrol, diesel, electric) and Euro standard. So make sure you check that the information provided is correct to avoid confusion.

Fines and penalties

Fines for non-compliance can be severe. Inspecting a vehicle without a Crit'Air sticker in a ZFE can result in a fine of €68 (for a light vehicle) or €135 (for a truck). Local authorities have a number of enforcement tools at their disposal, including automatic speed cameras and visual checks in the field. It is therefore crucial that your employees are aware of this obligation to avoid fines.

Exceptions and derogations

There are a few exceptions to this rule. For instance, certain older vehicles or vehicles used for public transport or emergency services may qualify for specific exceptions. However, these exceptions only apply in very specific cases and generally do not apply to commercial or work vehicles sent by foreign companies. It is therefore advisable to check carefully whether your vehicle qualifies for such an exemption before driving in a ZFE.