No. Driving with interior lights on in France is not explicitly prohibited under the Code de la route, but it may constitute a dérangement (disturbance) under Article R412-6, which mandates that lights must not impair visibility or distract other drivers. The Sécurité Routière interprets excessive interior lighting as a potential hazard, particularly in urban areas where glare could affect peripheral vision.
Key Regulations for Driving With Interior Lights On in France
- Article R412-6: Interior lighting must not create glare or obstruct the driver’s view, per the Code de la route. Non-compliance may result in a contravention de 3e classe (€68 fine).
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: The Ministère de l’Intérieur is reviewing stricter enforcement under Décret n°2023-1123, targeting “excessive illumination” as part of broader distracted-driving crackdowns.
- Local Enforcement: Municipal police (police municipale) in Paris, Lyon, and Marseille have issued warnings for interior lights deemed “disruptive,” though no national ban exists.
While no outright ban applies, drivers should prioritize minimizing interior lighting to avoid liability under distracted-driving provisions. The Sécurité Routière advises using dim or motion-activated cabin lights exclusively.