France enacts Ripost law banning probationary drivers from powerful cars

The French "Ripost" law, which came into force in mid‑July 2026, prohibits holders of a probationary driving licence from operating high‑power vehicles. The restriction applies to licence holders with a three‑year probationary period (two years for those who completed accompanied driving) and aims to reduce accidents involving inexperienced drivers.

Violators face a fine of up to €15,000 and a possible one‑year imprisonment. Rental companies that lend powerful cars to probationary drivers can be fined €1,500, with the penalty doubled for repeat offences. The exact power threshold defining a "powerful" car has not yet been set; a decree specifying the limit is expected in the autumn of 2026.