How to Get a French Driving License
You might need an French license if you're an expat and have recently moved to France. In order to get one, you have to pass a driving theory and practical test. The best way to accomplish this is to go to an instructor at a driving school. They will handle the paperwork for you and schedule the test.
It is valid for three 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 holder's photo, date and place of birth, as well as driving privileges. The French driving license can also include a number restrictions and conditions. Some of these restrictions include driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs and a minimum age for driver's license.
The prefecture (or area) issues the French driving license in France. Licenses have to be renewed every 15 years and are able to 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 may apply for a renewal of your standard French driving license in your country of origin, or in France. To renew your license, you must pass both a written and a practical exam.
You may be able exchange your US driver's license to an French license without having to take any tests if you're an American. This program is open to Americans who have resided in France for more than a year and have the carte de sejour. The process usually takes within a year, and you must have your passport or other identification documents with you. It could take up to up to six months to complete the process, so start early.
Only those who are 18 years old and have not lost their driving privileges in their country of origin are eligible to obtain an French license. You must have third-party liability insurance and a medical certification, and you should also take at least 30 hours of training in an auto ecole (driving school). These schools are situated all over Toulouse and offer French lessons and practice tests. If you're looking to pass the French test it's an excellent idea to enroll in an additional course of introductory French classes.
You can check your points balance on the Ministry of Interior website or by a letter issued by the prefecture with reference 48N or 48M. Follow the steps on the website to recover any points that were taken away because of an infraction. The name on a French driving licence is identical to that of the holder when born. Married women can put their maiden names on their licenses should they wish to.
It has 12 points
You must have an French license to drive in France. You must pass both a theory and practical test in order to get the French driving license. You also must be able to pass a medical test. The theory test is made up of 40 multiple choice questions. The practical test consists of driving skills and road safety. You may be required to pass an exam in writing, based on your age. You must then finish a minimum of twenty hours of accompanied driving under the supervision of a driving instructor.
After passing a practical and driving theory test, you'll receive your license within three months. The license is valid for 15 years and must be displayed while driving. The licence must also include an image and the date it was issued. If you lose points, they are taken off your driving license, and in the event that you lose 12 points, your licence is suspended for a period of six months or more.
You can attend an instruction course to regain lost points. These courses, also known as stages of recuperation des points du permit, are offered by approved centres and cost around EUR200 for two days. You are only able to recover up to four points each year. You can also recover your points if you don't commit any more traffic offenses for a period of two or three years.
It is important to know that you won't be able to drive with your foreign license after one year of residence in France, unless you are a student or diplomat. Even if you've passed the French driving test, you must exchange your license for a French one if you'll be residing in the country for longer than a year.
It is important to be aware that driving laws in France are very strict. The BAC limit in France is lower than the United States and police conduct random sobriety tests. Drivers must also wear headlights when driving at night and in emergency situations or construction zones. It is also mandatory to wear them in the event of snow or rain. It is crucial to know the local rules as they vary from region to area.
It can be exchanged for the French license
If you're an American citizen and have an approved license issued by Connecticut, Illinois, Iowa Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey North Carolina or Wisconsin you are able to drive legally in France for a year without having to take the French driving test. If you are involved in an accident and your insurance company finds that you are the one to blame they could deny your claim. To avoid this, swap your license to one that is a French driver's one once you arrive in France.
You can transfer your license by contact your local Prefecture de Police (or Mairie). Ask for the demande d'echange de permis de conduire international de conduire form. The procedure varies from region to region. It is essential to check with the sub-prefecture prior to your travel. You'll also need a French translation of your license, which can be done at the embassy or through an official translator.
The application must contain an attestation that you have been a resident in France for six months or more. This can be verified with an tax notice or French health certificate. You must also provide evidence of your identity, such as an identity card, passport or photo of your identity. The photos must be in the format of French ID cards. This differs from American passport photographs. The application will be sent to ANTS (the agency that issues French driver's licenses). It can take several months for the license to be issued.
Once you've completed the exchange, you'll undergo a probationary phase until your French license is permanent. You'll also have to pass an "auto ecole", or ETG, which is a theory-practical exam. Those with disabilities or certain health issues may need to pass extra tests.
You could prepare for the exam by yourself, but it is recommended to enroll in a school. They will prepare you in French and take care of the paperwork. Some schools will give you some driving time before your exam.
The ANTS is the issuer
A French driving licence is essential for those who have recently relocated to France. The country has a reciprocal arrangement with most countries in the world, which makes it quite simple to swap your license for one. You can apply online, but you'll need to bring additional documents, like an authentic passport and a residence card, or any other proof of identity.
You can also obtain a French driver's licence by taking the behind-the-wheel test and passing it. After passing the test, you can download your driver's licence certificate (CEPC). This number is required to obtain your physical licence.
Before you take a drive on French roads, ensure that your license is up-to-date and that you've passed the medical examination. The ANTS site has a list approved doctors and hospitals. You can also schedule an appointment with your GP.
Once you've passed the behind-the-wheel test, you can apply for your physical license by visiting the ANTS website. To begin, sign into your ANTS account and click "Je would like to report an error on my driving permit for a period of less six months." Complete the required information, upload any additional documentation, and submit your application.
The application process will take between 2 and 45 days to take. In the meantime, you are able to drive on a temporary permit issued by your prefecture or city hall. The cost of this permit varies by region. You can also purchase a special driving policy that will cover you in the event of an accident.
To avoid future problems, it is best to learn driving at a driving school. The driving school will be able to provide you with a list of reputable teachers. Make sure to ask about their fees and whether or not they have English-speaking instructors.
You can also apply for a French driving license from your local prefecture. You will need to present your current driving license and proof of residency. Some sub-prefectures aren't able to process license exchanges, so it's essential to check beforehand. Be sure to check the deadlines for submission if you have to visit the prefecture.