French legislation and short-term car insurance
In France, car insurance is mandatory, even for temporary use. Short-term insurance is legal and regulated by the French Insurance Code.
In France, all motor vehicles must be insured whenever they are driven, even occasionally. However, many drivers are unaware of the existing solutions for legal, temporary and flexible coverage, such as short-term car insurance .
This insurance formula allows you to meet the requirements of the Insurance Code while adapting to short-term needs: vehicle loan, recently purchased car, occasional use, or temporary stay in France.
In this article, KT Tempo explains what the law says , in which cases you can take out temporary insurance , and how to do it in complete compliance .
What does the law say about car insurance in France?
Insurance obligation upon registration
In accordance with article L211-1 of the Insurance Code , all motorized vehicles must be insured for at least civil liability , even if they are used exceptionally or only once .
❗ Driving without insurance is an offense: fine of €3,750, license suspension, vehicle immobilization.
Coverage required even for occasional use
Are you planning to use your car for just a weekend? A trip from home to the garage? A delivery? Even in these cases, insurance is mandatory .
Short-term insurance: a 100% legal contract
Definition
Short-term car insurance is a temporary contract , covering a vehicle for a fixed and limited period, from 1 to 90 days .
It is recognized by French insurance companies and fully complies with legislation.
Which guarantees are mandatory or optional?
| Guarantee | Mandatory | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Civil liability | ✅ Yes | - |
| Defense/Recourse | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Breakdown assistance | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Glass breakage / theft | ❌ No | As needed |
📌 At KT Tempo, all our temporary insurance policies include legal liability insurance .
In which cases is short-term insurance suitable and compliant?
Vehicle loan or borrowing
If you drive a car that does not belong to you, not insured in your name, taking out a temporary contract allows you to drive legally .
Vehicle in transit or imported
Car with a temporary WW license plate or vehicle coming from abroad? Temporary insurance covers you during the registration period.
Release from the pound
A vehicle immobilized due to lack of insurance can only be released from the impound lot with a valid insurance certificate . A temporary contract allows you to provide it quickly.
Occasional stays in France with a foreign permit
Holders of an international or European driving licence can insure their vehicle temporarily in France.
How to subscribe in full compliance with KT Tempo?
- Visit kttempo.com
- Provide your identity and the vehicle's characteristics
- Choose the contract duration
- Pay online
- Receive your immediate insurance certificate by email
All our contracts comply with the French Insurance Code , valid in mainland France and the French overseas departments.
Conclusion
French law is clear : any vehicle that's driven, even briefly, must be insured. Short-term car insurance is a legal, fast, and suitable solution for occasional use. With KT Tempo , you'll be in compliance in just a few clicks, with no commitment, and at an affordable price.
👉 Need to drive for a few days legally?
Subscribe to your short-term car insurance at kttempo.com in 5 minutes. Immediate certification.