Before getting behind the wheel of a tractor or agricultural machine, it is important to be informed about the regulations governing their driving. Here are the main rules to follow to ensure your safety on the road.
What is the maximum allowed speed for a tractor?
Tractors and agricultural machinery must comply with the Highway Code, which sets a maximum speed of 40 km/h (article R 413-12-1). The speed is reduced to 25 km/h for self-propelled machines and large machines. However, there is some legal ambiguity regarding the speed at which tractors traveling without implements or hitches can travel. Since the entry into force of the European directive (regulation 167/2013, also called "parent regulation"), manufacturers have the possibility of approving them at 50 or 60 km/h.
What are the authorized dimensions for an agricultural set?
The Highway Code limits the length of vehicles on public roads to 12 meters. This limit increases to 18 meters when a tool is towed (article R. 312-10). Implements carried must not protrude more than 4 meters in front and 7 meters behind the line of the tractor. They must be marked with a reflective sign or tape. Beyond a width of 2,55 meters, certain obligations must be respected. For equipment whose width is between 2,55 and 3,5 meters, it is compulsory to drive with the dipped headlights on and at a speed of less than 40 km/h. Traffic is limited to the operating department and neighboring departments. Group B applies to templates whose width is between 3,5 and 4,5 meters. They require an accompanying vehicle and must not exceed 25 km/h. Traffic is prohibited to them from Saturday at 12 noon until Monday at 6 a.m., except for the periods of sowing and harvesting.
Are there weight limits to follow?
The Highway Code sets two limits that must never be exceeded: 38 tonnes for a convoy comprising a maximum of four axles, and 40 tonnes for a convoy comprising more than four axles, with a limit of 13 tonnes per axle. The maximum authorized laden mass (PTAC) is specific to each vehicle and trailer, and is indicated on its registration certificate. The total mass of the convoy must not exceed the total authorized rolling weight (GCW), which is mentioned on the gray card of the towing vehicle.
What license is required to drive an agricultural tractor?
A category B driving license is sufficient. Since 2015, the Highway Code (article L 221-2 and R 221-20) authorizes people who do not have a driving license to drive agricultural machinery linked to a farm, a cooperative for the use of agricultural equipment ( Cuma) or an agricultural work company (ETA). This waiver is only valid during business hours and for business use. This exemption is also granted to retirees in the context of mutual assistance. To justify this right of exemption, it is necessary that the registration certificate of the vehicle includes the mention "agricultural vehicle", and that a plate bearing the operating number is fixed to the rear of the vehicle.
Driving is authorized from the age of 16 for anyone working on the farm (apprentice, caregiver, trainee). However, they are prohibited from driving agricultural machinery whose width exceeds 2,5 meters. Moreover, they are not allowed to drive a tractor hitched to a trailer carrying people. The driving of self-propelled machines and lifting gear is only authorized within the framework of their professional training and in the presence of a competent person.
What precautions should be taken before letting a young person drive a tractor?
It is essential to transmit to young drivers a minimum of knowledge, such as the rules of conduct, the operation of equipment, the measures to be taken in the event of a breakdown and the presentation of safety equipment.
What safety equipment should be present in a tractor?
Just like in a car, a warning triangle, a high visibility vest and a breathalyzer are mandatory. Wearing a seat belt is also compulsory, and the use of the telephone is prohibited. It is strongly recommended to have a fire extinguisher on board the tractor, in case of fire or other emergency.