Mandatory equipment to drive a motorcycle
Verified 16 June 2026 - Public Service / (Prime Minister)
What does the highway code say about the equipment of a motorcycle (helmet, gloves, etc.)? We tell you what you need to know.
In circulation, driver and passenger of a motorcycle must wear a helmet.
The helmet must be approved (standards ECE-06 or ECE-05. The NF standard tends to disappear) and carry 4 visible retro-reflective elements (one front, one back, one on each side).
The helmet must be attached.
Failure to comply with this rule is sanctioned by a fine up to €750. In general, this is a lump sum fine of €135. Fixed asset and the impoundment of the vehicle may be ordered. When this contravention is committed by the driver, three points are removed from his driver's license.
Please note
Driving with a phone in hand or by carrying an audio device in the ear is forbidden (road traffic offense punishable by a reduction of 3 points of the license and a lump sum fine from €135). Only devices integrated into the motorcycle helmet are allowed.
In circulation, the driver and passenger of a motorcycle must wear gloves. Gloves must wear the CE marking.
Failure to comply with this rule is punishable by a fine of up to €450. In general, this is a lump sum fine of €68. Fixed asset and the impoundment of the vehicle may be ordered. Where the driver has committed such a contravention, 1 dot is removed from his driver's license.
The high visibility vest (yellow vest) is mandatory. Depending on the situation, you must carry it or have it in a storage of the motorcycle.
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In circulation
To ride a motorcycle, you must have a high visibility vest on you or in a storage of your vehicle. The vest must wear the CE marking.
Failure to comply with this rule is punishable by a fine up to €38. In general, this is a lump sum fine of €11.
Following an emergency shutdown
As a result of emergency shutdown, you must wear the high visibility vest if you are caused to leave your immobilized vehicle on the roadway or its surroundings. The vest must wear the CE marking.
Failure to comply with this rule is punishable by a fine up to €750. In general, this is a lump sum fine of €135.
A motorcycle must be equipped at least from high beam headlamps, of crossing, of position rear and front, from turn signals, of lights stop and a fire of rear registration plate. Lights shall be in good working order.
Failure to comply with this rule is punishable by a fine of up to €450. In general, this is a lump sum fine of €68. At night, or during the day when visibility is insufficient, in the case of absence, non-conformity or defect of the turn signals, stop lamps, main beam, passing beam, front and rear position, the fixed asset of the vehicle may be ordered.
FYI
One moped may be equipped with turn signals but this is not mandatory. Highway traffic lights do not concern mopeds. Front position lamps do not apply to 2-wheel mopeds.
A motorcycle must have 1 license plate approved, clearly arranged at the rear. Consult the dedicated sheet.
A motorcycle must be equipped with a steering lock device.
Failure to comply with this rule is punishable by a fine of up to €450. In general, this is a lump sum fine of €68.
FYI
The use of the motorcycle theft guarantee may be subject to the use of a double protection device consisting of a steering lock and an additional mechanical lock. For example, a chain, a padlock.
A motorcycle must be equipped with a audible warning (horn) approved.
Failure to comply with this rule is punishable by a fine of up to €450. In general, this is a lump sum fine of €68.
A motorcycle must be equipped with a approved exhaust system which reduced the polluting emissions and the noise nuisance.
Failure to comply with this rule is punishable by a fine of up to €750. In general, this is a lump sum fine of €135. Fixed asset and the impoundment of the vehicle may be ordered.
Identify risks based on your motorcycle equipment (helmet, gloves, etc.)
Identify the mandatory and recommended equipment of a motorcycle
Summary of mandatory motorcycle equipment and sanctions in case of absence
Infographie - Mandatory motorcycle equipment
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Mandatory accessories on motorcycle and scooter and penalties in case of absence.
Helmet. The wearing of helmets is mandatory for the driver and his passenger. Failure to comply with this obligation is punishable by a withdrawal of 3 points from the license and a fine of up to €750.
High visibility vest. When driving a 2- or 3-wheel motor vehicle or a quadricycle with an unbodied motor, you must have a high visibility vest on you or in a storage of your vehicle. Following an emergency stop, you must wear a high visibility vest if you are required to leave your vehicle immobilized on the road or its surroundings. Failure to comply with this obligation is punishable by a fine of up to €750.
Gloves. The wearing of gloves is mandatory for the driver and his passenger. Failure to comply with this obligation is punishable by a fine of up to €450. The driver also risks the withdrawal of a point on his driver's license.
Functional lighting. Every 2 or 3 motorized wheel or motor quadricycle shall be equipped with lamps which are in working order at night or when visibility is insufficient. Failure to comply with this obligation is punishable by a fine of up to €450.
On the same subject
Immobilization and impoundment in case of driving without mandatory equipment
Vehicle lighting and signaling
Maneuvering, steering and visibility devices
Warning triangle, high visibility vest
Helmet and gloves
FAQ
Service Public
Service Public
Ministry of the Interior
Ministry of the Interior