How to Get a French Driving License
If you're an expat and has recently relocated to France, you might need to obtain a French driving license. To obtain one, you'll need pass both a theory as well as a practical driving test. This can be done by a driving school which will take care of the paperwork and book the test for you.
Valid for 3 years
The French driving licence is valid for three years following the date of issue. The French driving license is a pink credit card-sized paper with the holder's name, photo along with the date of birth, and driving rights printed on it. It also contains various limitations and conditions. These restrictions may include driving under the influence.
The prefecture (or the area) issues the French driving license in France. The licenses must be renewed every 15 years and are able to be used in any EU country in addition to Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. Certain licenses are valid only for five years. For instance, they are valid for heavy vehicles or passenger transport vehicles. You can renew a standard French license in France or in your home country. You must pass a written and practical exam to qualify for the renewal.
If you are an American citizen, you may be able to exchange your US license to one that is a French one without having to take any tests. This program is available for Americans who have been living in France for more than a year and have an official carte de sejour. The process is usually completed within a year, and you must have your passport or other official identification documents with you. It can take as long as up to six months to complete the process, so begin early.
Only those who are 18 years old and have not lost their driving rights in their country of origin can obtain the French licence. You must have third-party liability car insurance and a medical certificate and you should also take at minimum 30 hours of instruction in an auto ecole (driving school). These schools are located all over Toulouse and provide French lessons and practice tests. If you're hoping to pass the French test it is recommended to take an additional course of introductory French classes.
You can check your point balance on the Ministry of Interior website or via a letter from the prefecture, with reference 48N or 48M. You can get back points you have lost for an infraction by following the guidelines on the website. The name on the French driving license is the same as the name of the holder at birth. Women who are married can use their maiden name on their driving license in the event that they choose.
It is a 12 point score
You must have a French license to drive in France. You must pass both an exam in theory and a practical test to get the French driving license. You also must pass a medical exam. The theory test is made up of 40 multiple choice questions. The practical test is a mix of driving skills and road safety. You could also be required to take a written exam, depending on your age. You will then need to complete a minimum of twenty hours of driving with a driver under the supervision of a teacher.
After passing a practical and driving theory test, you will receive your licence within three months. The license is valid for 15 years and must be displayed while driving. In addition to the points, it must have an image of the driver as well as the date of issue. Losing points will be removed from your license. If you lose 12 points your licence will be suspended at minimum six months.
You can take a course to regain the points you lost on your license. These courses are called stages of recovery des points du permit and are offered by approved centres. They cost about EUR200 per two-day period. However, you are able to recover four points per year. You can also get back points that you have lost by avoiding any additional traffic violations for a minimum of two or three years.
It is important to note that you will not be allowed to drive on your foreign licence after one year of living in France or if you are a student or a diplomat. Even if your pass the French driving test, you will need to exchange your licence for one that is a French one if you'll reside in the country for more than a year.
It is crucial to be aware that driving laws are very strict in France. For example, the BAC limit is lower than in the United States, and police put up random checkpoints to determine if you are sober. Drivers must also wear headlights while driving at night and use them in emergency situations or construction zones. They must also use the headlights when it's raining or snowing. The rules differ by region, therefore it is crucial to know the local rules.
It is exchangeable for a French license
If you're an American citizen who has an official driver's license that is validly issued by the state of Connecticut, Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, North Carolina, or Wisconsin you are able to legally drive in France for a period of one year without taking an French driving test. If you are involved in an accident and your insurance company concludes that you are at fault they could deny your claim. To avoid this, exchange your license to a French driver's license once you arrive in France.
You can transfer your license by calling your local Prefecture de Police (or Mairie). Ask for the demande d'echange de Permis D de conduire form. The procedure differs from region to region. Some sub-prefectures don't allow licence exchanges, therefore it is important to check before you travel. You will also need an official French translation of your licence that can be obtained at the embassy or by a sworn translator.
The application must contain an acknowledgement that you have resided in France for at minimum six months. This can be proved by an tax notice or French health certificate. You should also present evidence of your identity such as an identity card, passport or photo of identification. The photos must conform to the format of French ID cards. This is different from American passport photographs. The application will be sent to ANTS (the agency that issues French driver's licenses). It can take several months to get the license issued.
After you've successfully completed the exchange, you'll need to go through an initial period of probation before your French license is made permanent. You'll also have to pass a practical and theory exam, known as an "auto ecole" or ETG. People with disabilities or other medical conditions may be required to take additional tests.
You could prepare for the exam by yourself, however it is recommended to enroll in a school. They will prepare you in French as well as handle the paperwork. Some schools will provide you with some driving time before your exam.
The ANTS is the issuer
If you've just moved to France and are planning to move there, having a French driving license is essential to be able to. The country has a reciprocal agreement with most countries in the world, so it's relatively easy to exchange your license for one. You can apply online however you'll need evidence of your identity, such as the passport, residence card or other proof of identity.
You can also get an French driver's licence by taking the behind-the-wheel exam and passing it. You can download your certificate of driving licence (CEPC) following the test. You will need this number to order your physical licence.
Before you take a drive on French roads, ensure that your license is current and you've passed a medical exam. The ANTS website provides a list of licensed hospitals and doctors. You can also book an appointment with your GP.
After you've passed the behind-the wheel test, you can apply for your physical license through the ANTS website. To begin, sign into your ANTS account and select "Je souhaite signaler un erreur sur mon permis de conduire granted for less de 6 mois." Fill in the required information, upload any supporting documents, and then submit your application.
The application process will take between 2 and 45 days to take. In the meantime, you are able to drive with a temporary permit issued by your city hall or your prefecture. The cost of a permit varies from region to region. You can also buy an insurance policy specifically for drivers that covers you in case of an accident.
To avoid future problems, it is best to learn driving at a school. The driving school should have a list of instructors who are certified. Make sure you inquire about their rates and whether or not they have English-speaking instructors.
You may also apply for a French driving license from your local prefecture or Mairie. To obtain this license you need to present a copy of your current driving license as well as a certificate of residency. It's important to confirm that the sub-prefectures that you're interested in will not allow license exchanges. If you have to visit the prefecture, make sure you check the deadline to submit your application.