How to Get a French Driving License

Before you start driving in France it is essential to be aware of the driving rules. You should also know the requirements for a driving license.

Depending on the prefecture, it can take a few weeks to several months to get your French driving license. It's a pink credit-card format and valid for 15 years.

Rules of the Road

France is a popular road trip destination, thanks to its beautiful countryside and vibrant urban landscapes. To avoid any issues with the police, it's important to know the rules of driving. Always carry your driving licence and proof of insurance. A driving permit for international travel (IDP) is beneficial to help you get around.

The traffic in France is slower and there are many more pedestrians. It is therefore important to drive defensively, and be on the lookout for drivers who make a left turn in front of you. It is also not advised to drive after having consumed alcohol. You could be fined up to 135 euros and lose points on your driving licence when you are found driving under the influence.

It is illegal to use a cell phone while driving in France. You are allowed to use hands-free phone calls if wearing a headset integrated into your helmet. If you are stopped by police, you may be penalized for texting or talking while driving. Additionally, you must wear a seat belt in both the front and rear seats. If you have children younger than the age of 10 in your car, they must be sitting in the back of the vehicle and secured with an approved seat belt or approved child seat.

You should also carry a copy of your passport at all times. This is a requirement of the law and will be checked if you are stopped for any reason.

Another important thing to keep in mind is that the speed limits on French roads differ by type of road. For example, Autoroutes have a higher speed limit than other roads. You can pay tolls by cash or credit card.

Priorite a droite is the most important rule to follow in France. This means that any vehicle approaching from your right gets priority. This is true regardless of whether the vehicle is connecting to a busy highway via a tiny village road. This is especially true when driving on narrow country roads where cars frequently cross each other in the middle of the road.

Passing the test

After you've passed the written test and passed the written test, you can now take the driving test. It's a more difficult test than the theory exam and you'll need to practice a lot before passing. It's important to find a driving school that can give you lots of driving lessons prior to taking the test. Before Permis Cepc can drive in France you should have at minimum third party liability car insurance.

You can register for the test by visiting the ANTS website and entering your NEPH number (your application number) and an ID photo. The French driving license photo must be in full-face color and in color unlike the American passport photo. You can ask for a translator in the event that you are not an English native. You must request this at a minimum two days prior to your test.

After passing the driving test, you'll receive an CEPC, which is your driver's licence examination certificate. This is what you'll need to show to the local prefecture to be able to apply for a French driving license. You'll then be able to drive in France.

If you fail the driving test, you'll need to wait between two and 45 days before you are able to take it again. The number of times you can retake your driving test is unlimited, however it is recommended that you wait until you are able to take the test.

Having a driving license is essential for surviving life in France. If you're an expat and plans on living in France for more than one year, you'll need to obtain a license before you are able to legally drive on France's roads. Some Americans do not adhere to this requirement and continue to drive on their US license after the one-year mark. This could result in serious accidents or even fines.

Fortunately, some states have an agreement of reciprocity with France. Kentucky for instance, permits its citizens to swap their U.S. driver's licenses for French ones, without having to undergo the lengthy and tedious process of passing a test written as well as a practical driving test. Some Americans have to undergo a lengthy process to obtain their French licenses.

Inquiring for a license

If you're an expat, or a foreigner who has an official driving license from a country with reciprocity agreements with France you can exchange it to the French licence without having to pass the driving test. However, there are some rules that you need to know. Make sure you have a valid driver's licence. Then, you'll need to fill out an application for the renewal of your license. The form can be found on the internet. Follow the next step after selecting Renewal of Driver's License.

Complete your information and select the reason why you require a license. If you hold a licence B, you are able to drive vehicles that weigh up to 3,5 tons and with the maximum of nine passengers. You can also choose to haul a trailer not heavier than the vehicle you're driving.

Next, you will need to submit your application to the prefecture in your region. You must complete all the necessary information and attach copies your identity documents. Make sure that you include your passport, or any other photo ID, as well as an address proof. Also, you will need to provide medical certificates should you require it. The licenses for categories A and B are valid for 15 years. The licences for categories C, CE, DL, and D are valid for five years.

In certain cases the need for the French license can be granted in a matter of months. This is especially applicable to students from abroad who are in the French university. Students who aren't enrolled at a French university will have to wait longer for their licence to be approved.

If you're looking to learn how to drive in France ought to consider taking a driving lesson at a school that offers English. The majority of schools in Paris offer courses in English however this isn't the case in all places. People who live outside the capital should contact their local prefecture to ask if there is a driving school that offers lessons in English.

Driving in France

It is important to follow the rules of the roads and the proper manner of driving in France. A valid driver's licence and third-party insurance for cars are required. It's a great opportunity to understand the rules of the road and the language by having driving lessons with an expert instructor. Also, you should ensure that your vehicle has been properly maintained and fuelled prior to your trip. Lastly, you should be aware of the different speed limits for different types of roads in France.

In France traffic laws are strictly adhered to. The French have a point-based system to punish traffic violations. New drivers start off with six points, and must earn 12 points before their probationary period ends. In the event that you receive a traffic ticket, your points will be withdrawn and the amount of fine will be different depending on the nature of the offense.

The first step in getting a French driver's license is passing the theory test. This exam consists of 40 questions covering the rules of the road and traffic safety. The practical part of the test is the final step. This requires a minimum of twenty hours of accompanied driving under the supervision of an instructor. If you fail the practical part of the test, it is required to wait a year before you can try again.

To obtain the issuance of a French driving licence you must be at least 18 years old and pass a medical examination. For those who suffer from disabilities or health issues must undergo an exam for medical reasons.


If you are from an EU or non-EU EEA country, you'll need an International Driving Permit in addition to your regular license. The IDP includes a driver's photograph and an English translation of their driving licence. It is available at the airport or a car rental company.

Driving in France isn't easy, however you can safely drive in France with a foreign licence as long as your IDP. It is important to be aware of the driving rules in France and take a few lessons before you try to drive by yourself.