What vehicle documents are required during a roadside check?

Verified 03 January 2025 - Directorate for Legal and Administrative Information (Prime Minister)

Presentation of the digital driving license at a roadside check

The Minister of the Interior announced on February 14, 2024 the generalization of the application France Identité and the arrival of the digital driving license in France Identité.

The digital driving license may be presented in France during a roadside check by the police.

The information presented on this page remains current and will be modified as soon as an amending text is published.

During a road check by the police (police, gendarmerie), you must present the following documents:

  • Valid driving license
    You can also submit a Secure Driving Rights Certificate (SDA). This certificate, downloadable via My Points Permits, is valid for 4 months from its issue and may be reissued. It is valid only in France. You can present it in paper or dematerialized format.
    If you have just obtained a driver's license, present a ADCSADCS : Secure Driving Rights Certificate or the Driving License Examination Certificate (CEPC) with a favorable endorsement.
    In case of loss or theft of the license, submit an ADCS. You can also present the receipt of the declaration of loss or theft that replaces the permit for up to 2 months.
    In case of accompanied driving, the person accompanying the student driver must present his or her license or a SFTA.
  • Carte grise Certificate of Registration (C.A.R.), and if necessary carte grise trailer's
    Carte grise carte grise You must present the vehicle description even if it does not belong to you (a copy of the description is accepted for a short-term rental vehicle).
    If the application for vehicle registration is in progress, submit the Provisional Certificate of Registration (PIC).
    Carte grise The gift of vehicle subject to roadworthiness tests constitutes a proof of roadworthiness if it is completed with the registration certificate or with the expiry date of the check.
  • If you drive a 3-wheel scooter or a 125 motorcycle with a B license (license obtained since March 1980), certificate of training or information statement from your insurer
  • If you have an obligation to driving with a DAE, document certifying that your vehicle is equipped with an alcohol ignition interlock (EAD) and its operation has been verified. You must also present the judicial or administrative decision authorizing you to drive a vehicle equipped with a DAE.

Please note

Law enforcement can also check if you have mandatory equipment by car (signaling triangle...) or on motorcycles (helmet, high visibility vest...).

FYI  

Since 1er April 2024, it is no longer mandatory to submit insurance papers during a roadside check. Indeed, law enforcement authorities consult the register of insured vehicles (FVA) and check whether the vehicle is insured with its registration number.

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