With around 65,000 roundabouts on its territory, France holds the world record for circular intersections. The figure, often quoted in European rankings, far exceeds Germany or the United States. Yet two out of three drivers still do not know there is a legal difference between a classic roundabout and a roundabout with priority to the inside. In 2026, several signage updates and the rise of new types of roundabouts call for a clear refresh.
Classic roundabout or modern roundabout: not the same
The priority difference, a key crash factor
A classic roundabout (without a Yield sign at the entry) follows the general rule of the road: priority to the right, meaning entering vehicles. This is why Place Charles-de-Gaulle in Paris gives priority to those entering. Conversely, a modern roundabout is signalled by an AB25 (Yield) panel and a B25 (roundabout) panel: priority goes to vehicles already inside the ring. The vast majority of French roundabouts are in fact modern roundabouts, which explains the common practice of yielding to those inside.
How to tell them apart
To avoid mistakes: slow down on approach and look for entry signs. A blue arrow or a B25 panel (three arrows in a circle) together with a Yield sign indicates a modern roundabout. No Yield sign should alert you: it is probably a classic one. If in doubt, observe whether cars inside slow down when seeing those entering: another clue.
Indicators: the rule often tested on the driving test
Entry, transit, exit
On entering a roundabout, you do not need to indicate if you take the first or second exit. However, as soon as you pass the exit straight ahead, you must use the left indicator to signal a left turn. To exit, the right indicator is mandatory as soon as you pass the previous exit. About 60% of French drivers reportedly forget this reflex according to examiners. Forgetting the indicator costs 35 euros and 3 points.
Multi-lane roundabouts
On a two-lane or larger roundabout, the principle is simple: outer lane for early exits, inner lane for late exits. Road markings often show the directions. Avoid changing lanes mid-rotation. If you are inside and a vehicle to your right wants to exit, that vehicle has the exit priority: let it go.
Left turn: the Swedish-style rule explained
Why this name
The Swedish-style left turn is a layout that lets you turn left on certain main roads without blocking oncoming traffic, thanks to a central storage lane sometimes paired with a small island. The rule got its name because Sweden popularised it in the 1970s. In France, it is now common on T-shaped intersections on rural roads and around busy roundabouts. Drivers simply yield to oncoming traffic before leaving the central lane.
Pros and limits
The layout cuts frontal collisions and smoothes the main flow. It poses an issue of visibility if the storage lane is too short or poorly lit. Several recent crashes in Vendee and Charente led local authorities to lengthen storage lanes. In 2026, the dedicated left-turn panel is included in driving licence theory.
Turbo roundabout: imported from the Netherlands
A spiral that forces lane choice
The turbo roundabout, popularised in the Netherlands, forces drivers to choose their lane before entering the ring. Once inside, the lane cannot be changed thanks to physical separators (concrete kerbs or rails). The layout draws a spiral that takes each vehicle to its exit. Benefit: near-total elimination of lane-change conflicts. France's first turbo roundabout opened near Strasbourg in 2017. Others have since opened near Lille, Nantes and the Paris suburbs.
How to approach it for the first time
Read the signs 200 metres ahead: they show precisely which lane to take for each destination. Once engaged, do not try to change lanes. The structure can surprise newcomers but greatly improves flow on busy roads. Signage matches European standards and is part of driving school review sheets since 2023.
Crash data and signage
Safety and limits
Roundabouts reduce severe crashes by 75% compared with classic light-controlled intersections. Crashes are rarely frontal. Speeds are usually limited to 30 or 50 km/h depending on the layout. B25 (three arrows in blue circle) marks the roundabout, AB25 the Yield sign. In 2026, some roundabouts have flashing lights during traffic jams and smart sensors that adapt signage.
Practical recap
Seven reflexes for a clean roundabout
Approach slowly, read the signs, choose your lane in advance, use the right indicator to exit and the left if you pass the exit ahead, yield if a Yield sign is present, watch out for pedestrians and cyclists at exits, and never stop in the ring except in a true emergency. On a turbo roundabout, stay in your lane. On a classic priority-to-the-right roundabout, let entering vehicles in. This mental routine avoids most scares and tickets.
DevisPermis expert opinion
Roundabouts remain one of the weak points for licence candidates. Many forget the left indicator when transiting, which can be a disqualifying mistake. Our advice: practise on roundabouts in your area, observe traffic and compare to the Code. Memorise the difference between classic and modern roundabouts since it shows up in theory. For busy spots like Place de l'Etoile in Paris, take the outer lane: it is the easiest to leave. And if you travel to the Netherlands, you will already be comfortable with the turbo roundabouts that are spreading across France.
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Frequently asked
Your questions on this topic
How many roundabouts exist in France in 2026?
France has more than 65,000 roundabouts in 2026, half of all the world's roundabouts. The country holds the absolute world record, ahead of the UK (25,000) and Spain (15,000). The first modern French roundabout dates from 1907 (Etoile in Paris). Average construction cost: 500,000 to 1.5 million euros, financed by local authorities.
Who has priority in a French roundabout?
In a modern roundabout (B25 yield sign), priority to vehicles already engaged in the ring. You must yield when entering. This is the rule for 99 percent of French roundabouts. In an old roundabout without B25 sign (gyratory intersection), right-of-way applies: entering vehicles have priority (rare relic, mainly Place de l'Etoile in Paris).
How to position yourself correctly in a roundabout?
To exit at the 1st exit: stay in the right lane, right indicator from entry. To exit at the 2nd exit: right lane (or centre if 3 lanes), no indicator at entry, right indicator after the 1st exit. For the 3rd exit or more: left/centre lane, left indicator at entry, right indicator before the desired exit. Always check the blind spot before exiting.
Why does France have so many roundabouts?
France favoured roundabouts since 1984 for 3 reasons: 70 percent reduction in fatal accidents compared to classic intersections (Cerema), traffic fluidity (40 percent gain at peak), and urban flexibility (roundabout = decorative green space). Annual maintenance cost: 5 to 15 times cheaper than a traffic light intersection. Drawback: urban congestion and confusion for foreign drivers.
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