Paris, December 22 – The Métropole du Grand Paris (MGP) announced on Monday, December 22, a one-year extension of the derogation system for the most polluting vehicles circulating in its Low Emission Zone (ZFE), alongside a continued exemption from enforcement. This decision directly impacts motorists in the Île-de-France region who own diesel vehicles registered before 2011 and petrol cars from before 2006.
Crit’Air 3 Vehicles: Extended Circulation and Pass ZFE 24h
While the ZFE of Grand Paris, encompassing 77 out of 131 communes, theoretically excludes Crit’Air 3 vehicles from the beginning of 2025, these motorists can still circulate freely thanks to a pass and derogation system now extended until the end of 2026.
As has been the case since January 2025, affected drivers will be able to benefit from a 24-hour ZFE Pass for twenty-four days until the end of 2026, allowing free circulation within the zone. This is in addition to weekends and public holidays, totaling one hundred and thirty-nine days per year. This measure offers considerable flexibility to motorists who have not yet been able to replace their vehicles.
The MGP also confirmed in its official statement that the one-year educational period, during which no sanctions are applied to offenders, is extended until December 2026. Since January 2025, nearly 38,000 passes have been issued, and 3,900 derogations granted, particularly for access to medical care, staggered working hours, or professional training.
Financial Aid for Vehicle Replacement Continues
Grand Paris is maintaining its financial assistance programs for motorists to replace older, more polluting vehicles with cleaner models. This comes despite the government’s removal of some conversion aids and a reduction in the ecological bonus. Up to 10,000 euros in aid can be allocated for the purchase of a new vehicle, with 6,000 euros directly from the MGP. This significant boost aims to help residents transition to more environmentally friendly transportation.
Future of ZFE: Legislative Uncertainty
The question of the ZFE’s future frequently arises. In May 2025, the National Assembly voted to abolish ZFEs as part of the ‘simplification’ bill, an initiative spearheaded by the Republicans (LR) and the National Rally. However, this legislative process is not yet complete, and the current ZFE rules remain in effect.
Patrick Ollier, President (LR) of the MGP, stated to AFP, “The tools we are renewing offer concrete solutions to allow for a period of adaptation and appropriation of the measure, in order to guarantee a responsible and reasonable ZFE. The public health of residents remains our priority.” He added that he remains “very attentive to the evolution of the national legislative and regulatory framework.”
Rationale for Maintaining ZFEs Amidst Criticism
Established in 2019 to curb air pollution and its health impacts, ZFEs are still active in several French metropolitan areas. The primary objective is to safeguard the health of Île-de-France residents, who are particularly vulnerable to fine particles and polluting emissions. While the system faces debate, especially concerning its impact on modest households unable to quickly change vehicles, the Métropole is striving to balance ecological transition with the economic realities of motorists.
In summary, Crit’Air 3 vehicle owners in Grand Paris have additional time to adapt, utilize the pass, and potentially benefit from vehicle replacement aid. To apply for your 24-hour ZFE Pass or a derogation, visit the official website of the Métropole du Grand Paris.
Source: https://www.sortiraparis.com/actualites/a-paris/articles/338776-zfe-du-grand-paris-les-vehicules-polluants-autorises-jusqu-a-fin-2026-sans-sanctions
