[1] There are 18 clubs in the league, with four promoted teams from Championnat de France Amateur replacing the four teams that were relegated from National following the 2015–16 season.
All clubs that secured National status for the season were subject to approval by the DNCG before becoming eligible to participate.
As of 14 July 2016, the following teams have mathematically achieved qualification for the 2016–17 season.
Evian Thonon Gaillard, who were relegated from Ligue 2, was sent administratively to CFA due to financial troubles.
The Championnat National team hosted the first game.