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Did you know that some old and unpaid driving fines issued in France may be cancelled under certain conditions, as there is a ‘statute of limitations’ for each type? 

France has several types of traffic and driving fines. These include:

Fixed fines (amende forfaitaire): Issued for less serious offences, such as:

1st class: Noise disturbance at night, failure to present administrative documents, etc

2nd class: Obstructive parking, failure to carry vehicle registration documents, etc

3rd class: Speeding less than 20 km/h outside built-up areas, etc

4th class: Using a mobile phone while driving, jumping red lights, etc.

Criminal fines (amende délictuelle): More serious offences such as drink-driving

Tax, customs, or administrative fines (amende fiscale, douanière, ou administrative): Mainly concerning offences relating to reporting or health obligations.

Each type of fine has a statute of limitations. This means that if the fine has not been paid by this time, the state can no longer legally demand payment. 

Tax, customs, or administrative fines: Three to six years, depending on the fine

However, the ‘clock’ is reset every time the person in question receives another payment reminder, a reminder letter, a summons for legal action, or wage seizure. 

Ignoring a letter or summons, or not receiving it for whatever reason, does not count. If a letter, reminder, summons (or similar) is issued then the clock resets on the limit. 

Each type of fine usually has a limit by which payment is required, unless you successfully raise a dispute. Some fines are smaller if you pay by a certain date, and increase if not paid by

a certain date. 

The exact time limit and deadline - and any ‘discounts’ for early payment or increases for late payment, will be marked clearly on your fine notice.

Read also: How long does it take for a traffic fine to arrive in France and is there a limit?

Read more: Record number of driving fines in France confirmed in latest official report 

Although most justified fines will simply need to be paid (and after 75 days of non-payment, the Treasury may begin to take action) there are some ways to legitimately take action to defer

(or attempt to cancel) a fine if applicable. 

If you are experiencing financial difficulties: You can request a deferral (demander un délai) or ask to pay in instalments. You may also be granted a waiver if you submit a reasoned request

accompanied by supporting documents (pay slips, RSA certificate, etc). 

In the event of a dispute: If you dispute the legitimacy of the fine (e.g. you dispute the circumstances or believe your identity has been stolen), you have 45 days after receiving the

initial notice to raise a dispute and present your arguments, and 30 days if the fine has already been increased because of non-payment.

Read also: Is it necessary to pay a French driving fine before contesting it?

The status of your fine, as well as other information on ways to pay and/or submit a dispute or other payment request, can be seen on the ANTAI (Agence Nationale de Paiement Automatisé des

Infractions) website at Antai.gouv.fr. 

Read also: Can I find details of any driving fines in France online?