Getting a driver's license in France

Obtaining a driver’s license in France can be both costly and challenging, typically averaging around €1,700, including theoretical and practical training. This guide outlines the entire process, requirements, and useful tips to make obtaining your French driving license easier.

Driving Without a License in France

If you lack the funds or the ability to obtain a traditional driver’s license, France permits driving certain vehicles without a formal license. These vehicles:

• Have limited speed capability (maximum 60 km/h).
• Have become increasingly popular, with nearly 700,000 people using them.

Converting a Foreign Driver’s License to a French License

Foreigners living in France must exchange their national driver’s license for a French one within one year of obtaining a residence permit. To start this process, follow these steps:

Initial Application at the Prefecture

Visit your local prefecture to obtain and complete the application form. Include:

• Copy of your residence permit
• Color copy of your current driver’s license
• Certificate from the national traffic police confirming the validity of your current license (officially translated into French)

Send these documents by registered mail to the address provided on the application form.

Follow-up and Additional Documents

After 2-3 weeks, if your documents are approved, you will receive a request for additional paperwork, typically including:

• Two passport-sized photos
• Copy of residence permit
• Original driver’s license and its official French translation
• Original and translated certificate from the issuing national traffic police
• Proof of residency in France
• Medical certificate
• Completed application forms

Submit this package personally at your local prefecture. Upon approval, you’ll receive your French driver’s license by mail within 2-3 weeks, valid for five years.

Getting Your First French Driver’s License

Obtaining your first license in France involves attending a driving school and passing theoretical and practical exams. Here’s what to expect:

Costs Associated with Getting a French Driver’s License:

• Driving school registration: Approximately €80
• Theoretical classes: €150 – €250
• Mandatory driving lessons (minimum of 20 hours required, typically 28 recommended): Around €45 per lesson
• Exam fees: Around €100

Financial Assistance

If costs are an issue:

• Your local commune may cover up to 80% of driving school costs if you perform 60 hours of community service.
• Many companies offer their employees driving school tuition as a benefit.

Passing the Theoretical Exam

• You may attend unlimited theoretical classes at your driving school.
• The exam can be retaken, but each additional attempt costs €60 – €130.
• Approximately 60% of candidates pass on the first attempt.

Passing the Practical Driving Exam

• Complete a minimum of 20 mandatory driving hours at a certified driving school.
• You can also practice with a qualified relative or friend.
• The practical exam lasts 35 minutes.
• You have up to five attempts within three years after passing the theoretical exam. If unsuccessful, you must restart the entire process.

Upon passing the practical exam:

• You will receive your driver’s license within three days.
• Initially, your license has 6 points. After three years of driving without major infractions, your license will have 12 points.

French Driving License Points System

France uses a points-based system to penalize traffic violations:

• Using a mobile phone while driving: -2 points
• Not wearing a seatbelt: -3 points
• When points reach zero, your license is revoked.
• To restore your license within five years, retake the practical driving test. After five years, both theoretical and practical tests must be retaken.
• You can restore points through paid rehabilitation courses.

Importance of an International Driver’s License

Even with a French driver’s license, obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) is beneficial when traveling abroad. Don’t forget to issue an International Driving License in France – right on our website. Even if you already have a French one.