Road networks dedicated to exceptional transport in France
French regulations on exceptional transport (Decree of 4 May 2006, as amended) provide for road networks with national or departmental scope allowing, under certain conditions, the simplification or optimization of the granting of circulation authorizations for oversized or overweight convoys Article 9 bis of this decree defines the different national networks, their tonnage limits, and the conditions of access. (Légifrance)
1. National networks prioritized for exceptional transport
“1TE” network – First-category map
• Exclusively intended for first-category exceptional transport.
• A first-category transport generally corresponds to light convoys (lower length, width, and weight) that do not require a heavy administrative procedure.
• Being authorized on this network means that the convoy holds a permanent individual authorization allowing it to circulate on the defined map without requesting a specific route for each journey.
Usual characteristics (indicative data according to practical guides):
• Approximate maximum length: 20 m
• Maximum width: 3 m
• Maximum authorized gross combination weight (GCW): up to 48 t on certain sections.
Advantages:
• The permanent authorization simplifies administrative procedures.
• No specific route instruction is required for each transport.
• The TE1TE map must be carried on board in paper format in case of inspection.
“2TE48” network – Second-category map
• Open to first- and second-category exceptional transport whose total mass does not exceed 48 tonnes.
• The second category allows convoys that are heavier or longer than in the first category but still within a relatively moderate envelope.)
Usual characteristics:
• Maximum length: ≈ 25 m
• Maximum width: ≈ 4 m
• Total mass ≤ 48 t (according to local requirements).)
Practical notes:
• As with the 1TE, a permanent individual authorization is possible.
• The TE2TE48 map must be kept on board the convoy in paper format.
PLEASE NOTE: for the 1TE and 2TE48 networks and first- and second-category exceptional transport ≤ 48 t:
• Decree of 4 May 2006 as amended
• Articles R.433-1 to R.433-6 of the Highway Code
A connection ≤ 10 km per end is permitted without specific instruction
“TE72”, “TE94” and “TE120” networks – heavy routes with national scope
The TE “72”, TE “94” and TE “120” networks are open to convoys of all categories including heavy or oversized convoys — subject to compliance with the following technical criteria:
Technical criteria common to TE72 / TE94 / TE120
• Maximum authorized gross combination weight (GCW):
o TE72: up to 72 t
o TE94: up to 94 t
o TE120: up to 120 t
• Maximum axle load: 12 t
• Minimum distance between consecutive axles: ≥ 1.35 m
If these conditions are not met, an individual authorization on a specific route remains necessary even when these networks are used.
Why these criteria?
They correspond to essential structural factors:
• the strength of engineering structures (bridges, footbridges),
• the load-bearing capacity of the pavement,
• the safety of bends, intersections, and guardrails.
These elements are incorporated into the specification booklets that accompany each network and are regularly updated by the authorities.
PLEASE NOTE :
Administrative simplification: for the TE72, TE94 and TE120 networks, when a convoy complies with axle load and spacing limits, the authorization procedure is significantly faster and less burdensome , the road authority does not need to be consulted each time.
2. On-board documents and circulation obligations
Maps and associated specifications
For all 1TE, 2TE48, TE72, TE94 and TE120 networks:
The maps of approved routes and their technical specification booklets (maximum loads, limitations, specific restrictions, engineering structures, level crossings, etc.) are mandatory constituent parts of the convoy’s on-board documentation.
In the event of a roadside inspection, the driver must be able to present:
• the corresponding paper map,
• the permanent or individual authorization,
• the associated specification booklet,
• the declaration of compliance of the convoy with the characteristics of the map.
A paper version of the map remains mandatory on board, even if consultation of the Géoportail is possible in the field.
Synthetic summary
• 1TE / 2TE48: traditional networks allowing permanent authorizations for light to moderate convoys
• TE72 / TE94 / TE120: higher-capacity networks allowing a simplified procedure if axle load and spacing criteria are met.
• Maps & specification booklets: mandatory documents to be carried on board and provided during any instruction or inspection
• Local requirements: defined by prefectural decree at the departmental level.