If you do not affix this sticker to your car in 2025, you risk a fine of up to 450 euros

© Maïf

Here's an oversight that could cost you dearly. Since January 1, 2025, the Crit’Air sticker has not is no longer an option but an obligation in no less than 42 French urban areas. A major change that risks making many motorists grind their teeth, especially since fines can quickly climb for the recalcitrant.

This small colored sticker, which indicates the pollution level of your vehicle, becomes the essential sesame for driving in low-emission zones (LEZs). So no more excuses like “I didn't know” or “I thought it wasn't mandatory”, the sticker must now proudly sit on your windshield if you plan to drive in one of the cities concerned.

This is also the other major change this year: we are going from 12 to 42 regulated zones in France.Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Toulouse… the major cities are of course concerned, but also medium-sized towns such as Annecy, Chambéry and Pau. This massive extension of the system is part of a government desire to drastically reduce air pollution, responsible for more than 47,000 premature deaths each year in France.

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Another parameter to take into consideration: the restrictions vary depending on the city. While Paris and Lyon are pioneers with the ban on Crit’Air 3 vehicles, other cities are more lenient by only banning unclassified vehicles. It is therefore better to check the rules in force before venturing into town.

Up to 450 euros fine

If you thought you would slip through the net, think again! Fines can quickly become steep: 68 euros for light vehiclesand up to 135 euros for heavy goods vehicles. An amount that can even climb up to 450 euros in the event of an increase. At this price, the 3.81 euros (including postage) that the sticker costs seem quite derisory.

Certainly, 2025 is considered an “educational” year, with video ticketing not planned until 2026. But manual checks are already in place and the police will not give offenders any gifts.

For older vehicles, particularly those classified as Crit’Air 3 (diesel before 2011 and petrol before 2006), the situation becomes particularly complex. These vehicles are now banned in four major cities: Paris, Lyon, Montpellier and Grenoble. A reality that is pushing many owners to consider changing their vehicle, despite the reduction in government aid.

• The Crit’Air sticker has been mandatory in 42 French urban areas since January 1, 2025
• The fine for non-compliance is €68 for light vehicles, up to €450 in the event of an increase
• Crit’Air 3 vehicles are now banned in Paris, Lyon, Montpellier and Grenoble

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