France increases vehicle registration costs and introduces ecological penalty in 2026

The price of vehicle registration documents, known as "cartes grises," is set to increase in France starting in 2026. The regional tax rate per fiscal horsepower will rise from 60 to 70 euros, impacting new and used vehicles. Some regions already at the previous maximum will see a 10 euro per horsepower increase. Additionally, a retroactive ecological penalty will apply to certain used vehicles from January 1, 2026, affecting those previously exempt, such as diplomatic cars or vehicles for disabled individuals.