This is one of the leaders of the state’s fight against the car: facilitate the use of bicycles. With fuel prices skyrocketing and the number of low-emission zones (ZFE) in France increasing, you may be opting for a bike more. If you got on two wheels for the first time, here is a reminder of the rules in force in Franceand any providing assistance by the government

Rules to follow

The general rules for riding a bicycle are as follows:

• Do not wear headphones, earbuds or headphones, and do not hold the phone in your hands;
• Do not get behind the wheel after drinking too much alcohol. More than 0.25 mg/l of exhaled air is prohibited and entails a fine;
• A helmet is mandatory for children under 12 years old, the driver or passenger of a bicycle. It must be attached.
• Walk on footpaths or bike lanes designated for you
• Do not drive on sidewalks. This is only permitted for children under the age of 8, provided they travel at a reasonable speed and do not obstruct pedestrians

If you have a driver’s license, you don’t lose points on your driver’s license in case of violation of traffic rules by bicycle. Nonetheless, in the event of a serious violation, a judge can revoke your driver’s license. For example, in the case of driving while intoxicated or creating a danger to the lives of others.

Mandatory equipment

Some accessories are necessary for riding a bicycle: helmet for children up to 12 years oldhigh visibility vest, front and rear lighting and signaling deviceswarning signal (horn, bell).

Aids are available

Exist national, regional or municipal aid regarding the purchase or use of a bicycle. Sometimes they accumulate:

• Bonus bike: until December 31, 2022, when the plan is due to change, the bike bonus offers you financial assistance for the purchase of a new bicycle, including electric. To find out if you qualify and what the amount is, you can do a modeling on the website of the State Service.
• Prize for converting an electric bicycle: did you know you can benefit from an electric bike recycling bonus? The principle is the same as for a car: you exchange your petrol or diesel car for a new electric bicycle (VAE). Again, the amounts depend on each situation, and you should run an online simulation.
• Sustainable Mobility Package: This is assistance paid by the employer contribute to the costs driving to work. It is €700 per year and also applies to bicycles and VAE. Make your simulation online here if you are from private sectorand here if you are from public sector.