It started as a lovely day trip to Provins. We boarded the train, unaware of what was to come. Midway through the journey, a man dressed in plain clothes approached my friend about an apparent violation. Confusion struck—was this man really an inspector? Learn about the RATP fines in Paris and how the Paris fine system operates. Discover how Paris inspector fines are part of a profit-driven system impacting both locals and tourists
How RATP inspectors profit from Paris metro fines
He seemed untrustworthy, especially as he insisted the fine be paid on the spot. A police officer later confirmed his legitimacy, and reluctantly, my friend paid the €60. The experience left a bitter aftertaste. Was this truly about enforcing fairness, or was something else at play?
My curiosity was piqued, so I dug deeper into the matter. An article in Le Parisien revealed a striking fact: inspectors working for the RATP (Paris’ public transport authority) earn bonuses based on the number of fines they issue. These bonuses can amount to 10% of the fines collected on the spot.
Inspectors in Paris’ public transport system encounter between 15 and 30 infractions daily, of which 20 to 40% are resolved immediately through payment. This can add up significantly in busy metro or RER stations. For inspectors, the more fines they issue, the higher their monthly reward.
This raises some important questions: does this system encourage fair enforcement of the rules? Or does it motivate inspectors to be overly strict—or even exaggerated—in their assessments?
Breaking the rules in Paris metro: the true cost
The Le Parisien article also highlights how breaking the rules in the Paris metro can come with a hefty price tag, sometimes disproportionately so:
- Crossing a restricted area in a station: €25 if paid immediately, up to €75 after 90 days.
- Feet on the seat: €60 if paid on the spot, €200 after 90 days.
- Unintentional damage or making excessive noise: €150 if paid immediately.
- Taking photos without authorization: €150.
- Begging or distributing leaflets: €150.
Even relatively small offenses, like standing in the wrong spot during peak hours or bypassing a gate, can result in significant fines.
How to get a discount on an RATP fine
If you pay your fine within 20 days, you get a €20 reduction on the administrative fees. Only pay the fine through the official RATP website, on the RATP salespoints, or by phone.
Fines RATP Paris: How to pay a RATP fines
There are three ways to pay: at a sales point, by phone, via the RATP website.
RATP salespoint: You can pay the fine at the official RATP sales points. It’s faster if you generate a QR code for payment in advance.
By phone: You can also pay by phone with your credit card by calling the number 3424.
RATP website: Go to the page “Services de télépaiement des amendes RATP” and follow the administrative steps. You can find the telepayment identification number on the fine, SMS, or reminder received by mail. It’s called the “Numéro d’identifiant” and the “clé de télépaiement.”
How to contest fines RATP Paris or a SNCF fine
Fines received on the SNCF network must be handled exclusively by the SNCF service.
To contest an RATP fine, you must consult the virtual assistant. On the RATP site, you will see a green/white icon in the bottom right corner that starts the conversation (select the language you wish to speak).
Is fair enforcement at risk in Paris public transport
In Paris, the balance between personal freedom and public order often feels like a tightrope. Yes, rules are necessary in a bustling city with millions of commuters. But when financial incentives encourage inspectors to aggressively issue fines, it’s fair to question whether this really promotes safety and fairness—or simply boosts their year-end bonuses.
I sometimes feel torn. On the one hand, I understand the need to follow the rules. On the other hand, it feels like fines have become more of a profitable business model than a tool for maintaining order. It makes me distrustful of inspectors: are they enforcing the rules to protect us, or to line their own pockets?
What do you think about Paris’ fine system
Is it fair and right for inspectors to be rewarded for issuing more fines? Share your thoughts: where should the line be drawn?
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