Crit'air

The Crit'Air sticker (also known as the French air quality certificate) is a French clean air sticker scheme that classifies vehicles based on their air pollutant emissions. Introduced in 2017, it aims to improve air quality in urban areas by restricting access for the most polluting vehicles during periods of high air pollution or within designated low-emission zones (Zones à Faibles Émissions, or ZFE).

The Crit'Air sticker system categorizes vehicles into different classes, ranging from 0 (the cleanest) to 5 (the most polluting), based on the vehicle's Euro emission standard, fuel type, and age. Electric and hydrogen vehicles receive the "Crit'Air 0" sticker, while older, more polluting vehicles might not be eligible for a sticker at all and are therefore restricted from entering certain zones.

The purpose of the Crit'Air sticker is to identify vehicles with the highest emissions and to discourage their use in areas where air quality is a concern. The regulations and enforcement vary from city to city, with local authorities setting their own rules regarding access to low-emission zones based on the Crit'Air sticker classification. During periods of high air pollution, authorities may also implement emergency restrictions, such as prohibiting vehicles with certain Crit'Air stickers from entering affected areas.

Obtaining a Crit'Air sticker requires submitting an application and providing vehicle registration information. The sticker is then mailed to the vehicle owner and must be displayed on the vehicle's windshield. Foreign vehicles are also required to obtain a Crit'Air sticker if they plan to drive in areas where the scheme is in effect. Failure to display a valid Crit'Air sticker in a designated zone can result in fines. The scheme's implementation and regulations are subject to change and updates at the national and local levels in France.