Crit’Air: Everything you need to know about driving in France with a clean air sticker
If you’re planning a trip to France by car, then it’s crucial that you understand Crit’Air stickers to ensure a smooth trip. France’s Government introduced the “Crit’Air Vignettes” in 2017 to combat air pollution in major cities. Read on to find out everything you need to know about the Crit’Air system.
What is Crit'Air?
Crit’Air is a vehicle emissions classification system, implemented to combat air pollution in major cities. France implemented it in 2017 as part of their efforts to improve air quality and reduce pollution in urban areas.
The stickers help to regulate access to certain areas (ZFE-m zones) during periods of high pollution, allowing authorities to implement temporary driving restrictions based on a vehicle's Crit’Air category. ZFE-m are essentially driving zones for vehicles with low emissions.
The Crit'Air system assigns different coloured stickers (Crit’Air vignettes) to vehicles based on their environmental impact.
There are six classes, ranging from the least polluting, green (electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles) to the most polluting, dark grey (cars with the highest emissions).
Why does it matter for drivers?
Crit’Air, short for "Certificat qualité de l’air," has been implemented to combat air pollution in major cities in France. It was introduced in 2017 as part of their efforts to improve air quality and reduce pollution in urban areas.
The stickers help to regulate access to certain areas (ZFE-m zones) during periods of high pollution, allowing authorities to implement temporary driving restrictions based on a vehicle's Crit’Air category. ZFE-m are essentially driving zones for vehicles with low emissions.
The environmental initiative was designed to categorise motor vehicles based on their emissions output. The sticker system allocates a coloured vignette (sticker) to every eligible car, motorbike, bus, truck, and van, which reflects its emission standard. The main purpose of the initiative is to create a visible, easy-to-enforce way to differentiate between cleaner and more polluting vehicles in regulated areas.
Understanding Crit'Air Emission Categories
The Crit'Air system assigns vehicles to six emission categories, each represented by a distinct colour sticker. The categories are determined by the vehicle's type, age, and engine technology, aligning broadly with the Euro emission standards.
Six categories explained
Crit'Air 0 - Green
Reserved for fully electric vehicles and hydrogen-powered cars. These are the cleanest and face the fewest restrictions.
Crit'Air 1 - Purple
Modern petrol vehicles (registered since Jan 2011) and hybrid vehicles. These emit very little pollution.
Crit'Air 2 - Yellow
Covers newer diesel vehicles (since Jan 2011) and older petrol vehicles. Many foreign cars fall into this category.
Crit'Air 3 - Orange
Includes older diesel vehicles (2006–2010) and older petrol vehicles (1997–2005).
Crit'Air 4 - Brown
Older diesel vehicles (2001–2005).
Crit'Air 5 - Grey
The most polluting diesel vehicles (1997–2000).
Vehicles registered before 1997 (or 2000 for motorcycles), or those that do not meet minimum standards, are not eligible for a Crit'Air sticker and are therefore barred from driving in most regulated zones during restrictions.
What sticker does your vehicle need?
To identify your vehicle’s category, you’ll need to check its initial registration date and fuel type. For foreign and UK vehicles, this information is generally found on the vehicle registration certificate (such as the V5C logbook).
The official Crit'Air website provides a tool where you can enter your vehicle details to determine its eligibility and which sticker you require. It's vital to get the right one, as displaying the incorrect sticker is equivalent to having none at all in the eyes of French authorities.
What areas in France require a Crit'Air sticker?
France has established several low-emission zones (LEZ) known as Zones à Faibles Émissions (ZFEs), with new zones introduced in January 2025.
These restricted areas, some permanent, others temporary, are usually found in larger cities such as (but not limtied to) Paris, Lyon, Grenoble, Strasbourg, Lille, Toulouse and Montpellier.
For full details regarding France's ZFEs, visit the dedicated Government page: https://mieuxrespirerenville.gouv.fr/fiches-thematique/se-deplacer/zfe-francaises
Regulations in these zones can vary depending on local air quality, time of day, or pollution peaks. Authorities may adjust which sticker categories are permitted to enter or drive in these zones.
Driving regulations based on stickers
Each ZFE sets its own rules regarding which Crit'Air stickers grant access—often restricting the most polluting vehicles during weekdays, pollution episodes, or high-traffic hours to protect air quality.
For example, Paris generally allows only Crit'Air 0 to 2 vehicles on weekdays between 8am and 8pm within the ring motorway (Périphérique).
During pollution spikes, temporary “circulation différenciée” rules may ban even more vehicle categories.
Some zones, such as the Alps will temporarily escalate restrictions. Restricitions may also be escalated during large events.
Before traveling, always check local regulations for your route and destination, as local authorities can enforce sudden changes based on real-time conditions.
Fines and non-compliance
Driving within a restricted zone without the proper Crit'Air sticker can result in an on-the-spot fine.
Potential fines explained
As of 2025, the penalties are:
€68 fine for cars and motorcycles
€135 for trucks and buses.
These fines apply not only to vehicles without any sticker but also to those displaying an illegible, damaged, or incorrect sticker. French authorities are increasingly vigilant, with both mobile patrols and stationary checks.
Dealing with fines
If caught without a sticker, you may be issued a penalty notice payable within a short period or risk higher charges for late payment.
Fines issued to foreign drivers are enforceable in most European countries. Repeated non-compliance can also lead to the vehicle being denied entry or immobilised in serious cases.
It’s crucial to address any penalties promptly and keep proof of payment if you receive a ticket. The best way to avoid fines, however, is to ensure your Crit'Air sticker is valid, clearly displayed on your windscreen, and suited to your vehicle.
How and where to order your Crit'Air sticker
Ordering a Crit'Air sticker is straightforward and can be done entirely online. You can apply for a Crit'Air sticker at certificat-air.gouv.fr. The sticker costs €4.91 (€3.11 for the sticker, plus €1.80 for postage outside of France).
Watch out for high charges on intermediary sites.
A lot of them will charge you £15 to £20 for your Crit'Air sticker, which is really easy to apply for yourself.
Necessary Documentation
To apply for a Crit'Air sticker, you will need:
Vehicle registration certificate (V5C logbook, carte grise, or equivalent, in PDF or JPG format)
A valid payment method (credit/debit card)
Delivery address matching your registration document
Ensure that all scanned documents are clear and legible, as unclear documents can delay processing. Once received, affix the sticker to the inside lower-right corner of your windscreen, where it will be clearly visible for roadside checks.
Step-by-step process
When you visit certificat-air.gouv.fr, you'll need to upload a copy of your vehicle registration document (V5C Log Book) and provide the following information about your vehicle:
Country of registration
Registration Number
This can be found under section 4 part A of your vehicle registration certificate.
Date of Registration
Section 4 part B of your vehicle registration certificate.
Vehicle Category
This is usually identified by the letter J on your certificate.
Serial number / Vehicle identification number
This is usually identified by the letter E on your certificate.
Make / Brand
This is usually identified by the letter D.1 on your certificate.
Commercial Description
This is usually identified by the letter D.3 on your certificate.
Unlike the above vehicle details, the commercial description is not a requirement.
Euro Standard
This is usually identified under D.2 of your certificate.
CO2 (in g/km)
This is usually identified by the letter V.7 on your certificate.
Fuel or power source
This is usually identified by the letter P.3 on your certificate.
Stickers are typically posted to the address listed on your vehicle registration certificate. Delivery may take several weeks for addresses outside France, so order well in advance of your travel.
What happens after I've applied for my Crit'Air sticker?
The website will calculate your Crit'Air sticker requirement. You'll be asked to pay the fee (which is the same for all vehicles), then the sticker will be sent to the address to which your vehicle is registered.
You'll receive a confirmation e-mail within 4 hours of ordering your sticker.
An invoice will be sent to your email address within 24 hours. This contains an image of the Air Quality Certificate, which can be used as proof of your application and your vehicle's classification until you receive your sticker in the post.
How long will it take for my Crit'Air sticker to arrive?
It normally takes around 10 days for the sticker to arrive in the post, however it is best to allow up to 4 weeks. You can track the progress of your order at certificat-air.gouv.fr.
How do I affix my Crit'Air sticker and where do I place it?
Your Crit'Air sticker will arrive by post, attached to a letter containing your reference number and application instructions in French.
The instructions advise to stick the Crit'Air certificate at the front of your vehicle where it will be visible from the exterior.
Detailed instructions (including images) can be found on the reverse of the letter.
What happens if I don't display a valid Crit'Air sticker?
Crit'Air stickers are mandatory for vehicles driving or parked within restricted driving zones and LEZs.
Drivers who don't display a Crit'Air sticker while driving in the relevant zones will be faced with a fine of €68. Equally, drivers whose vehicles are not compliant (for example, if you drive a Crit'Air 4 car in a restricted zone) will be subject to the fine.
The fine is reduced to €45 for prompt payment but may be increased to €180 for late payment, with the maximum fine reaching €450.
Maximum fines may be increased to €750 once camera-based enforcement has been introduced.
Heavy goods vehicles disrespecting Crit'Air will be subject to heftier fines, which are normally fixed at €135, however can reach a maximum of €3,750.
How long is my Crit'Air sticker valid for?
Once you've received your sticker, your vehicle's Crit'Air classification won't change.
The certificate is valid until it is no longer legible, however the materials selected for the sticker have been designed to be durable.
I have a disability: do I still need a Crit'Air sticker?
Crit'Air stickers are mandatory in the circumstances that call for it, even for vehicles with a parking permit for disabled persons or vehicles for those with a mobility inclusion card.
Such vehicles, however, are not subject to the traffic restrictions.
What if I'm driving a hire car?
If you're driving in a clean air zone, your vehicle will need to display a Crit'Air sticker. You should thus inform the car rental company if you're planning to drive through any of these zones.
It's advised to check with your car rental agency that the vehicle you'll be driving will have a Crit'Air sticker. This could be especially significant if hiring a car from the UK and driving it into France.
Hire a carUnderstanding and complying with Crit'Air regulations is essential for any driver journeying through France’s low emission zones. By identifying the right sticker for your vehicle and ordering it ahead of time, you safeguard your trip from unnecessary fines and contribute to the wider goal of cleaner air in France's cities.
For up-to-date regulations and to order your Crit'Air sticker, always use the official French government website. Safe travels!
Discover Paris
Now that you know the ins and outs of Crit'Air, you can drive comfortably through France and discover some of our best parcs!
Why not add Paris to your list? There's plenty to do, whether you're visiting theme parks or taking in the beautiful landmarks and sights!
La Croix du Vieux Pont
Perfect for a day trip to Disneyland®
Thrilling new water slides
Relaxing beach bar terrace
Paris-Est
Just half an hour away from Disneyland®
Set in woodlands on the banks of the River Marne
12.6 km from the French capital
Le Grand Paris
45 minutes away from Parc Astérix
Large heated outdoor pool
A gateway to the wonders of the Île-de-France
Further Reading
Crit'Air Vehicle Classifications (French)
Official Crit'Air Website
The Crit'Air Scheme
Advice accurate as of July 2025
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