France’s annual restriction on the collective carriage of children returns on 1 August 2026

France’s annual restriction on the collective carriage of children will commence on 1 August 2026, from 00:00 to 24:00 hours.

The restriction applies to the transport of organised groups of children under the age of 18 by coach or bus and primarily affects operators undertaking school trips, youth excursions, educational visits and field trips.

Exemptions remain available for movements taking place within the department of departure and between neighbouring departments. The restriction does not apply to children travelling as part of an adult party, or family group where the transport is not primarily organised for minors. 

Operators should be aware that for journeys organised outside of France, the French department in which coaches arrive is deemed to be the department of departure when assessing whether an exemption applies. 

Coach operators and trip organisers should review planned journeys in advance to ensure compliance with the restriction and confirm whether any exemptions apply.