France has signed and ratified the three United Nations conventions (of 1961, 1971, and 1988) governing the legal framework for narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. French law makes no distinction between the substances themselves and the context of their use (in a public or private setting).
French narcotics legislation (laws of December 31, 1970, and March 5, 2007) is based on two pillars:

• the criminal prohibition of use,

• the increased crackdown on trafficking and illicit profits derived therefrom.

The legislature has also chosen to impose harsher penalties when certain acts (such as acts of violence) are committed while clearly under the influence of narcotics and/or in a state of obvious intoxication.

Use and Legislation

With regard to use—whether of cannabis, ecstasy, cocaine, or any other illicit psychoactive substance—use is a criminal offense punishable by a maximum sentence of one year in prison and a fine of €3,750 (Article L.3421-14 of the Public Health Code).
Since 2019, under Article L.3421-1 of the Public Health Code, the illicit use of narcotics may result in a fixed fine. Thus, a person caught using narcotics or in possession of small quantities may be issued a fixed fine of €200 immediately by law enforcement. Payment of this fine puts an end to any legal proceedings.

As an alternative to prosecution or as an additional penalty, even a minor user may be required to attend, at their own expense, an awareness course on the dangers of narcotic drug use, or to undergo a therapeutic injunction consisting of medical treatment or supervision. Specialized facilities—Consultations for Young Users (CJC) and Centers for Addiction Care, Support, and Prevention (CSAPA)—thus provide health and social care for these users.

Driving and Substance Use

Driving after using substances or plants classified as narcotics is punishable under the Highway Code by a maximum sentence of two years’ imprisonment and a fine of €4,500, as well as the automatic loss of 6 points on the driver’s license. The penalties are increased if the person is also under the influence of alcohol, up to three years’ imprisonment and a €9,000 fine.

Additional penalties may be imposed, such as the suspension or revocation of the driver’s license, or the requirement to attend a paid road safety awareness course.

Drug tests may be conducted at any time by police officers, particularly following an accident, a traffic violation, or on suspicion of drug use.