Contested by 18 clubs, the Championnat National operates on a system of promotion and relegation with Ligue 2 and the Championnat National 2, the fourth division of French football.

The National was founded in 1993 by the French Football Federation and served as a base league for clubs on the brink of becoming professional or falling to the amateur levels.

During the course of a season, usually from August to May, each club plays the others twice, once at their home stadium and once at that of their opponents, for a total of 34 games.

At the end of each season, the club with the most points is crowned champion and promoted to Ligue 2.

If there is a tie for the championship or for relegation, a play-off match at a neutral venue decides rank.