Where To Buy French Driving License: 11 Things You're Forgetting To Do

Bishop Laugesen

Feb 24, 2025 • 6 min read

Where to Buy a French Driving License: A Comprehensive Guide

Acquiring a driving license in France is a required step for anyone who wishes to drive legally on French roadways. Whether you are a new homeowner, a tourist, or planning a long-lasting stay, comprehending the procedure of getting a French driving license is essential. This guide supplies detailed info on the different methods to obtain a French driving license, consisting of the essential actions, requirements, and regularly asked questions.

Understanding the French Driving License System

France has a robust and well-structured system for releasing driving licenses. The process can vary depending on your current nationality and whether you hold a valid driving license from another nation. The primary authority accountable for releasing driving licenses in France is the Préfecture or Sous-Préfecture of your regional region. These federal government offices handle all elements of the license, from applications to renewals.

Choices for Acquiring a French Driving License

Exchange for a French Driving License

Eligibility: If you are a homeowner of France and hold a valid driving license from a country that has a mutual agreement with France, you might be able to exchange your license for a French one.
Process:

Gather Required Documents:

Valid passport
Proof of address in France (utility costs, lease arrangement, etc)
Original driving license from your home nation
Translation of your driving license (if not in French or English)
Completed application type
Passport-sized pictures

Make an Appointment: Visit the site of your regional Préfecture to schedule a consultation.
Send Your Application: Bring all the required documents to your consultation and send them.
Pay the Fee: The charge for exchanging a driving license is usually around 25-35 euros, however this can differ by region.
Receive Your French Driving License: After processing, which can take numerous weeks, you will receive your French driving license.

Take the French Driving Test

Eligibility: If your home country does not have a mutual arrangement with France or if you are a non-resident, you will require to take the French driving test.
Process:

Study the Rules of the Road: Obtain a copy of the French driving theory manual and study it completely. The theory test is performed online or on a computer at the Préfecture.
Take the Theory Test: Once you feel confident, schedule and take the theory test. The test consists of multiple-choice questions and a hazard understanding test.
Pass the Theory Test: You need to pass the theory test before you can proceed to the dry run.
Discover a Driving School: Enroll in a driving school (auto-école) to get the essential training for the useful test.
Take the Practical Test: The practical test involves a driving evaluation with an examiner from the Préfecture.
Pass the Practical Test: If you pass, you will receive a provisionary driving license immediately, and the long-term license will be mailed to you.

Momentary Driving Permit

Eligibility: Tourists and short-term visitors can drive in France utilizing their international driving permit (IDP) in combination with their valid home nation driving license. The IDP is recognized in France and stands for as much as one year.
Process:

Obtain an IDP: Before you travel to France, get an international driving license from an acknowledged authority in your home country.
Carry Both Licenses: Always carry both your IDP and your home nation driving license while driving in France.

Special Cases and Considerations

EU/EEA Residents: If you are a resident of an EU or EEA nation, you can normally utilize your home nation driving license in France indefinitely. However, if you relocate to France and remain for more than one year, you are needed to exchange your license for a French one.
Non-EU/EEA Residents: If you are a non-EU/EEA resident, you can utilize your home nation driving license with an IDP for up to one year. After this duration, you must either exchange your license or take the French driving test.

Regularly Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I drive in France with a non-EU license?

A: Yes, you can drive in France with a non-EU license for up to one year if you have an international driving permit (IDP). After this period, you should either exchange your license or take the French driving test.

Q: How long does it take to get a French driving license?

A: The processing time can vary. If More Signup bonuses are exchanging a license, it can take a number of weeks. If you are taking the driving test, the procedure can take several months, depending upon the availability of appointments and the speed at which you complete your training.

Q: What is the cost of a French driving license?

A: The cost of exchanging a driving license is usually around 25-35 euros. The expense of taking the driving test can differ, however it typically consists of the theory test charge, practical test charge, and driving school training expenses. The overall expense can vary from 500 to 1,500 euros.

Q: Do I need to take a French driving test if I have a valid EU license?

A: No, if you have a legitimate EU or EEA driving license, you can use it in France forever. Nevertheless, if you move to France and remain for more than one year, you need to exchange it for a French driving license.

Q: Can I drive with a foreign license while waiting for my French license?

A: If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen, you can drive with your foreign license and an IDP for approximately one year. If you are an EU/EEA citizen, you can drive with your home country license forever while you wait for your French license.

Q: What if my home nation does not have a mutual agreement with France?

A: If your home nation does not have a reciprocal arrangement, you will require to take the French driving test. This involves passing both the theory and dry runs.

Q: How can I find a driving school in France?

A: You can find a driving school (auto-école) by searching online, asking for suggestions from friends or associates, or visiting your local Préfecture. Driving schools are situated throughout France and offer both theory and useful training.

Actions to Take the French Driving Test

Research Study the Theory Manual:

Resource: Obtain a copy of the French driving theory handbook from your regional Préfecture or an auto-école.
Preparation: Study the handbook completely and practice with online mock tests to familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions.

Schedule the Theory Test:

Website: Visit the Préfecture website of your local area to schedule your theory test.
Scheduling: Follow the instructions to reserve a test slot, which can sometimes be restricted.

Take the Theory Test:

Format: The theory test is carried out online or on a computer and consists of multiple-choice questions and a risk understanding test.
Passing Score: You should score a minimum of 80% to pass the theory test.

Enroll in a Driving School:

Search: Find a reliable driving school in your location.
Training: Complete the required training hours, which usually include both in-class and on-road direction.

Schedule the Practical Test:

Website: Visit the Préfecture website to arrange your useful test.
Preparation: Continue practicing driving with your trainer and by yourself to construct self-confidence.

Take the Practical Test:

Examiner: The dry run is performed by an examiner from the Préfecture.
Evaluation: The test includes a driving assessment and a check of your car understanding.

Get Your Driving License:

Provisional License: If you pass the dry run, you will receive a provisionary driving license instantly.
Irreversible License: The long-term French driving license will be sent by mail to you within a couple of weeks.

Getting a French driving license is a simple process, however it requires cautious planning and adherence to the specific requirements. Whether you are exchanging an existing license or taking the driving test, the Préfecture and auto-écoles exist to assist you through the steps. For EU/EEA residents, the procedure is usually easier, while non-EU/EEA residents may require to invest more time and effort into acquiring their French driving license. By following the actions outlined in this guide, you can navigate the system efficiently and legally drive in France.

Additional Resources

Préfecture Website: Visit the website of your local Préfecture for the most current information and to set up visits.
Driving School Directory: Use online directories to find a reputable driving school in your area.
French Driving Theory Manual: Available at Préfectures or online from driving schools.

By preparing thoroughly and understanding the requirements, you can make sure a smooth and effective acquisition of your French driving license. Whether you are a new local, a traveler, or a long-lasting visitor, the ability to drive in France opens a world of chances and liberty to explore this gorgeous country.