No Toll Booths, but you still have to pay: tourists fined on France’s new A13 motorway
While many drivers are preparing for heavy traffic, others are being caught off guard by France’s new free-flow toll systems. In particular, the A13 motorway, linking Paris and Normandy, has caused confusion since toll booths were removed in March 2025.
Although there are no physical barriers, drivers are still required to pay tolls. The system now uses cameras to scan license plates, but tourists and foreign-registered vehicles are often unaware of this change and are being fined as a result.
Payment can be made:
- Automatically, if you have a toll badge or account with the motorway operator
- Online via the operator’s website (various operators)
- At partner tabacs or payment terminals near the motorway
But many tourists say the system is not clearly explained. A Czech driver told French media it was difficult to find information in English. An American tourist, unaware of the change, ended up with a fine of several hundred euros after using a different toll road (A14) without paying.
If you fail to pay:
- You’ll receive a €90 fine, which can rise to €375 if unpaid within 60 days
- Signs are in place, but mostly in French, which has led to criticism and calls for multilingual signage
Motorway operator Sanef has recommended that international drivers create an online account, allowing them to receive payment reminders or set up automatic billing. If you think you’ve been wrongly fined, you can contact their customer service to dispute it.
Whether you’re hitting the coast or exploring France’s inland towns, it’s not just traffic you’ll want to keep an eye on this weekend. Stay informed, plan ahead, and avoid unnecessary surprises on the road.
Safe travels from the P-O Life team.