The new law came into effect on December 29th 2025, making excess speed a délit (a lower-level criminal offence), rather than an infraction punished by a fine, as previously.
Drivers clocked going more than 50km/h above the speed limit can now be jailed and fined - in addition the délit will be entered on their criminal record.
The courts also have the power to confiscate their vehicle for up to three years and ban them from driving for five years, with the requirement to attend a speed awareness course.
The change is part of a new law creating an offence of 'vehicular homicide' that was passed in July.
It comes as police record increasing numbers of cases of very excessive speeding (50km/h or more above the limit) - in 2024 Sécurité routière recorded 63,217 cases, a 69 percent increase since 2017.
Drivers caught speeding at less than 50km/h over the limit will continue to be punished by fines and having points taken from their driving licence.
There are higher rates of fines for repeat offenders, while dangerous driving or driving while over the alcohol limit brings its own penalties, including the loss of a driving licence.
READ ALSO: Radars, fines and points: How to understand France's speeding laws✎
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