“Green Butterfly” on the windshield, insurance certificate: will these documents be mandatory in January 2025 ?

Le “papillon vert” n’est désormais plus obligatoire. MAXPPP – Jean-Luc Flémal

From now on, insurers provide information to a file called the Insured Vehicle File (FVA) that can be consulted by the authorities. During a road check, it is therefore no longer necessary to present insurance papers. Explanations.

It has been a habit for almost forty years. Each new year, it is mandatory to stick the “green butterfly” on the windshield of your vehicle and to be able to present the insurance certificate for your car, two-wheeler, etc. to the police. Last year, there was no way around it. But in 2025, the situation is changing. It's over: we can do without it.

From now on, insurers enter information into a file called the Insured Vehicle File (FVA) that can be consulted by the authorities. During a road check, it is therefore no longer necessary to present insurance papers.

The police will check, with the registration number, in this file, whether the driver is actually insured. “This digital tool is powered by insurers who indicate any contract renewal or subscription to a new commitment”, we can read on ServicePublic.fr.

In force since April 2024

This measure, published in the Official Journal at the beginning of December 2023 and effective since April 2024, is part of the desire to simplify administrative procedures and the digitalization of official documents.

Please note: this does not mean that you no longer have to insure your vehicle. Any owner of a motor vehicle (car, motorcycle, utility vehicle, etc.) in circulation must insure it with at least third-party liability cover. Driving without insurance is considered an offence.

The website of the insured vehicle file allows you to check that everything is in order. “If the vehicle is not listed in the file, you must contact your insurer”, advises ServicePublic.fr.