How to Get a French Driving License

You may need an French license if you're an expat and recently relocated to France. To get one, you'll need pass both a theory and a practical driving test. This can be done by a driving school that will handle the paperwork and schedule the test for you.

Valid for 3 years.

A French driving licence is valid for three years from the date of issue. The French driving license is a pink, credit card-sized document that has the photo of the holder, their date and birthplace, as well as driving rights. It also contains a number of conditions and restrictions. These restrictions may include driving while under the influence.

The prefecture (or the area) issues the French driving license. The licenses are valid for every 15 years and can be used in any EU country in addition to Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. Some licenses are only valid for five years. For instance, the ones for heavy vehicles or passenger transport vehicles. You are able to apply for a renewal of a standard French driving license in your country of origin or in France. To renew your license, you need to pass both a written and an exam in the practical.

You may be able exchange your US driver's license to one of a French license without having to pass any tests if you are an American. This program is available only to Americans who have resided in France for more than a year and possess the carte de sejour. The process usually takes within one year, and you must have your passport or other official identification documents with you. It may take six months to complete the process, so make sure to start early.

Only those who are 18 years old and have not lost their driving privileges in the country of origin are eligible to obtain a French license. You must have third party liability car insurance and a medical certificate and you should also take at least 30 hours of training in an auto ecole (driving school). These schools are found throughout Toulouse and offer French lessons and practice tests. It's a great idea to enroll in introductory French classes in addition to your French class if you're looking to pass the French test.

You can check your points balance on Ministry of Interior's website or by an email from the prefecture with reference 48N/48M. You can recoup points that were withdrawn for infractions by following the directions on the website. A French driving licence is in the name of the holder at birth. Married women may use their maiden name on their driving licence in the event that they choose.

It carries 12 points

You need an French license to drive in France. To obtain one, you have to pass an exam on driving theory and an actual test. You must also pass a medical examination. The theory test consists of 40 multiple-choice questions. The practical test is a mix of driving skills and rules for road safety. Depending on your age, you might also have to take an examination written. Then, you must take a minimum of 20 hours of accompanied driving under the supervision of a driving instructor.

After having passed the theory and practical driving test, you'll receive your license within three months. The licence is valid for 15 years, and must be displayed when you are driving. In addition to the points, it must have a photo of the driver as well as the date of the issue. If you lose points they are deducted from your driving license. Moreover, when you lose 12 points, your driving licence is suspended for a period of at least six months.

You can attend a class to regain the points you lost on your licence. These courses, referred to as stages of recuperation des points du licence and are offered by accrediting centres and cost around EUR200 for two days. However, you can only gain four points each year. You can also get back your points if you don't commit any more traffic offenses for a period of two or three years.

It is important to remember that you will not be allowed to drive on your foreign licence after one year of residence in France, unless you are a student or a diplomat. Even if you've passed the French driving test, you must exchange your licence for one that is a French one if you'll be residing in the country for more than a year.

It is important to know that driving laws are quite strict in France. The BAC limit in France is lower than that in the United States and police conduct random sobriety tests. In addition, drivers are required to wear headlights at night, and they must wear them when crossing the tunnel or in an emergency or construction zone. They must also wear the headlights when it's snowing or raining. The rules differ for each region, therefore it is essential to study your local rules.

It is exchangeable for an French license

If you're an American citizen with 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 can legally drive in France for a year without needing to take a French driving test. However, if you have an accident while driving with this type of license and are found responsible for the accident, your insurance company could reject your claim. To avoid this, it is recommended to change your driver's license to one that is a French one after you arrive in the country.

You could apply to exchange your license at your local Prefecture de Police or Mairie. Ask for the demande d'echange de permis de conduire form. The process varies from region to region. It is essential to check with the sub-prefecture prior to your travel. You'll also require a French translation of your licence that can be obtained at the embassy or by an official translator.

The application must contain an attestation that you've been resident of France for at least six months. A tax notice or French medical certificate can prove this. You will also need proof of your identity, like a passport and a photo. The photographs must be in the format required for French ID cards, which differ from American passport photos. The application is sent to ANTS the agency that issues French drivers licenses. The license can take up to several months to be issued.

Once you've completed the exchange, you'll have a probationary phase before your French license is permanent. You'll also have to pass an "auto ecole", or ETG, which is a theory-practical exam. For those with disabilities or health conditions may have to pass extra tests.

You can prepare for the test on your own, but it is recommended to go to an educational institution. They will prepare you in French and also manage the papers. Some schools will give you some driving hours prior to your test.

It is issued by ANTS

If you've recently relocated to France, having a French driving license is necessary to possess. It's simple to exchange your driving license as France has reciprocal agreements with many countries. You can apply online but you'll need supporting documents such as the passport, residence card or other proof of identity.

You can also get a French driver's license by taking the behind-the-wheel exam and passing it. After passing the test, you can download your driver's licence certificate (CEPC). You will need this number to obtain your physical license.

Before you drive on French roads, make sure your license is current and that you've passed the medical examination. The ANTS website provides a list of licensed hospitals and doctors. You can also make an appointment with your GP.

If you've completed the behind-the-wheel test, you can request your license in person on the ANTS site. Log in to your ANTS Account and choose "Je voudrai signaler une erreur sur mon Permis De Conduire International d'conduire recu for less than 6 months." Complete the necessary information and upload any supporting documents, then submit your application.

The time frame for processing your application will take between 2 and 45 working days. You can drive with a temporary license issued to you by your prefecture. The cost of the permit varies by region region. You can also buy an insurance policy for driving that covers you in case of an accident.

If you're a new driver, it's best to learn at an accredited driving school to prevent any issues in the future. The driving school should be able to provide you with a list of reputable instructors. Make sure you inquire about their prices and if they have English-speaking instructors.

You can also apply for an French driving license from your local prefecture. You'll need to show your current driving license as well as proof of residency. Certain sub-prefectures do not handle license exchanges, so it's essential to confirm this prior. Be sure to check the deadlines for submission in case you have to visit the prefecture.