1
MarchTwenty Myths About French Driving License Cost: Busted
The Cost of Obtaining a French Driving License: A Comprehensive Guide
Obtaining a driving license in France can be a complex and in some cases costly process, especially for those who are not knowledgeable about the system. Whether you are a new local, a foreigner wanting to transform an international license, or a French person seeking to restore or change a lost license, understanding the different expenses included is vital. This article supplies an in-depth breakdown of the costs associated with the French driving license, along with some regularly asked questions to assist navigate the procedure.
Summary of the French Driving License
In France, the driving license (acheter un vrai permis de conduireacheter un permis de conduire en France véritable renouvellement du permis de conduire françaisdemande de permis de conduire français conduire Français (ddlvid.com) de Conduire) is released by the Prefecture and is required to run an automobile legally. The procedure to get a French driving license differs depending on your circumstance, such as whether you are a new student, an experienced driver, or an immigrant with an international license. The costs also differ based on these factors.
Costs for New Learners
For people who are new to driving, the procedure includes several steps, each with its own set of costs:
Learning to Drive
- Driving School (Auto-école) Fees: The cost of driving lessons is the most significant expenditure. Since 2023, the typical expense of a driving school bundle in France varies from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, depending upon the area and the variety of lessons included. Some driving schools use flexible packages, enabling you to pay as you go or choose a set number of lessons.
- Theory Course: Most driving schools include a theory course in their bundles. However, if you prefer to study separately, you can purchase theory books or online resources. The cost of these materials usually ranges from EUR20 to EUR100.
- Theory Test Fee: The cost for the theory test is EUR34.50. You can take the test several times, however each attempt will sustain a new charge.
Practical Driving Test
- Practical Test Fee: The charge for the practical driving test is EUR101.80. Like the theory test, you can retake the dry run if you stop working, however each retake will require an extra charge.
- Extra Practice: If you need more practice before the test, extra driving lessons can be costly. The average expense per lesson is around EUR35 to EUR45.
Issuance of the License
- License Issuance Fee: After passing the useful test, you will require to obtain the actual driving license. The issuance cost is EUR25.20.
Expenses for Experienced Drivers with an International License
If you currently have a valid driving license from another nation, the process of obtaining a French driving license can be more simple, however it still involves some costs:
Application Process
- Application Fee: The application fee for a French driving license for foreigners with a valid international license is EUR65.90.
- Medical Certificate: You will need to supply a medical certificate, which can cost between EUR30 and EUR50, depending on the physician and the area.
- Translation of Foreign License: If your foreign license is not in French, you will need to have it equated by a qualified translator. The expense of this service can range from EUR20 to EUR50.
Testing Requirements
- Theory Test: If your foreign license is from a country that has a mutual contract with France, you might be exempt from the theory test. However, if you are from a nation that does not have such an agreement, you will need to take the theory test, which costs EUR34.50.
- Practical Test: In some cases, you might require to take a dry run as well. The fee for this test is EUR101.80.
License Issuance
- Issuance Fee: Once you have actually completed the required tests and supplied all essential documentation, the issuance cost for the French driving license is EUR25.20.
Expenses for Renewal or Replacement
If you already have a French driving license and require to renew or change it, the expenses are typically lower:
Renewal
- Renewal Fee: The renewal cost for a French driving license is EUR25.20. This fee covers the administrative costs and the production of the new license.
- Medical Certificate: You will need to supply a medical certificate, which can cost between EUR30 and EUR50.
Replacement
- Replacement Fee: If you require to change a lost, stolen, or damaged license, the replacement cost is EUR25.20.
- Authorities Report: If your license has actually been lost or taken, you may require to file a cops report, which can cost around EUR20.
Extra Costs to Consider
- Driving School Insurance: Many driving schools require you to have insurance while you are discovering. The cost of this insurance can differ, but it usually ranges from EUR100 to EUR200 for a year.
- Practice Car: If you select to practice driving outside of driving school lessons, you will need to have a car that is properly guaranteed. The cost of car insurance can be a considerable additional expense.
- Road Tax (Taxe Routière): While not directly associated to obtaining a driving license, it deserves noting that you will need to pay road tax if you own a car in France. The quantity varies based upon the type and age of the lorry.
Steps to Obtain a French Driving License
For new learners, the procedure to get a French driving license usually includes the following actions:
- Enroll in a Driving School: Choose a respectable driving school (auto-école) and enroll in a driving course.
- Complete the Theory Course: Attend the theory classes and prepare for the theory test.
- Take the Theory Test: Schedule and take the theory test at the Prefecture. You should pass this test to continue to the dry run.
- Total Driving Lessons: Take the required variety of driving lessons to get ready for the practical test.
- Take the Practical Test: Schedule and take the practical driving test. If you fail, you can retake the test after a waiting period.
- Obtain the License: Once you pass the dry run, obtain the actual driving license at the Prefecture.
- Receive the License: Wait for the license to be issued and sent to your address.
For knowledgeable motorists with an international license, the process may be a little various:
- Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your country has a reciprocal agreement with France, which might simplify the procedure.
- Collect Documentation: Collect all essential documents, including your valid international license, a medical certificate, and a certified translation of your license if required.
- Obtain the License: Submit your application and pay the application fee at the Prefecture.
- Take Required Tests: If needed, take the theory and/or practical tests.
- Receive the License: Wait for the license to be provided and sent to your address.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How much does a driving license expense in France for a new student?
- The overall cost for a new student can vary from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, including driving school costs, theory test charges, useful test fees, and the issuance cost.
Q2: What is the expense of converting an international driving license to a French driving license?
- The cost of transforming an international license can vary from EUR120 to EUR200, consisting of the application cost, medical certificate, and any required translation costs.
Q3: Can I drive in France with an international driving license?
- Yes, you can drive in France with an international driving license for as much as one year from the date of your arrival. However, it is a good idea to transform your license to a French one to avoid any legal problems.
Q4: Are there any discounts offered for driving school fees?
- Some driving schools offer discounts for students, young chauffeurs, or those who pay beforehand. It is worth asking about these discounts when picking a driving school.
Q5: What occurs if I stop working the practical test?
- If you stop working the practical test, you can retake it after a waiting period. Each retake will cost an additional EUR101.80.
Q6: How long does it take to get a French driving license after passing the dry run?
- The processing time for the issuance of a French driving license can vary, however it typically takes around 3 to 6 weeks.
Q7: Can I drive with a provisional license while waiting for my French driving license?
- No, you can not drive with a provisionary license in France. You should wait for the actual license to be released before driving.
Q8: Is it obligatory to take driving lessons from an expert driving school?

- Yes, it is obligatory to take driving lessons from an expert driving school in France. Self-teaching is not enabled.
Tips for Saving Money
- Select a Driving School Wisely: Research and compare driving schools in your area to find the one that uses the finest worth for money. Some schools might offer discount rates or unique bundles.
- Study Independently: While many driving schools include the theory course in their bundles, studying separately can conserve you some money on theory materials.
- Practice with Friends or Family: If you have pals or family who are already accredited chauffeurs, they can help you practice driving outside of driving school lessons, possibly minimizing the variety of lessons you need.
- Take the Theory Test Early: Taking the theory test early can assist you concentrate on the practical aspects of driving, which may reduce the variety of driving lessons you need.
- Retake Tests Quickly: If you stop working a test, retake it as quickly as possible to prevent paying for additional lessons or tests.
Getting a French driving license can be an expensive endeavor, however it is a needed step for anybody who wishes to drive legally in France. By comprehending the numerous costs and steps involved, you can better get ready for the process and potentially save money along the method. Whether you are a new student or a skilled driver, the secret is to pick the best driving school, study vigilantly, and complete the needed tests effectively. With the ideal approach, you can navigate the system and take pleasure in the flexibility of driving in France.
This guide provides an extensive introduction of the costs related to getting a French driving license, from the preliminary learning phase to the final issuance of the license. By following these actions and ideas, you can make the procedure as smooth and cost-efficient as possible.
Reviews