Can you overtake police vehicles in France?
Exploring the myths and legalities of overtaking police cars on French roads
Ensure you respect overtaking rules if you do not want to be pulled over
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Talk to French people about road rules and driving, and sooner or later someone will mention the ‘rule’ that you cannot overtake police or gendarmerie vehicles in France – even when they are driving below the speed limit.
In fact, the Code de la route does not specifically outlaw overtaking such vehicles, which implies it is legal as long as the general rules for overtaking are respected.
These can be summed up as follows:
Road markings allow overtaking
The road is clear and you can safely overtake without endangering yourself or other people – this rule includes a ban on overtaking on blind rises or corners, in fog, heavy mist, heavy rain, or on narrow roads where there is limited space, as well as overtaking in the face of oncoming traffic
You do not break the speed limit.
Breaking the speed limit in France
It is the speed limit which, if you believe internet forums, sees most people get into trouble.
Tales abound of a gendarmerie van being driven at 88km/h on a 90km/h road, only for the first person to overtake to discover blue lights suddenly appear in their rear-view mirror.
The fact is that most modern gendarmerie vehicles have strictly calibrated speed dials so its driver can be sure they are travelling at or near the speed limit. And as sworn officers of the law, it will be very difficult for an overtaking motorist to contest the facts given by a gendarme.
Read more: Driving in France: when you can overtake on the right-hand side
The exception to overtaking is if a police or gendarme vehicle has its blue lights on or siren going.
Officers can also pull people over, even if the speed limit is respected, if they judge the manoeuvre is dangerous, or if they think the driver is being provocative or showing disrespect – by making certain hand gestures, for example.
The subsequent ‘contrôle’ will almost certainly involve a thorough check of the vehicle’s and driver’s documents, as well as an inspection for any faults such as worn tyres or faulty lights. For dangerous driving, you can also expect a fine.
Read more: Police warn drivers of car headlights rules in France
