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The Cost of Obtaining a French Driving License: A Comprehensive Guide

Acquiring a driving license in France can be a complex and often costly procedure, particularly for those who are not acquainted with the system. Whether you are a new homeowner, an immigrant aiming to transform an international license, or a French resident seeking to restore or replace a lost license, understanding the different expenses involved is important. This short article offers a comprehensive breakdown of the expenditures related to the French driving license, in addition to some often asked questions to help browse the procedure.

Introduction of the French Driving License

In France, the driving license (Permis de Conduire) is issued by the Prefecture and is required to run a motor lorry legally. The process to get a French driving license varies depending on your situation, such as whether you are a new student, a skilled driver, or an immigrant with an international license. The expenses likewise differ based upon these elements.

Costs for New Learners

For individuals who are new to driving, the process includes numerous steps, each with its own set of expenses:

  1. Learning to Drive

    • Driving School (Auto-école) Fees: The cost of driving lessons is the most considerable cost. Since 2023, the typical expense of a driving school package in France ranges from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, depending upon the region and the number of lessons consisted of. Some driving schools provide flexible packages, enabling you to pay as you go or pick a set variety of lessons.
    • Theory Course: Most driving schools include a theory course in their plans. However, if simply click for source choose to study separately, you can purchase theory books or online resources. The expense of these products typically ranges from EUR20 to EUR100.
    • Theory Test Fee: The charge for the theory test is EUR34.50. You can take the test several times, however each effort will sustain a new fee.
  2. Practical Driving Test

    • Practical Test Fee: The fee for the practical driving test is EUR101.80. Like the theory test, you can retake the dry run if you fail, but each retake will need an extra charge.
    • Additional Practice: If you require more practice before the test, extra driving lessons can be pricey. The average expense per lesson is around EUR35 to EUR45.
  3. Issuance of the License

    • License Issuance Fee: After passing the practical test, you will require to get the actual driving license. The issuance charge is EUR25.20.

Expenses for Experienced Drivers with an International License

If you already have a valid driving license from another country, the process of acquiring a French driving license can be more straightforward, however it still includes some expenses:

  1. Application Process

    • Application Fee: The application charge for a French driving license for immigrants with a valid international license is EUR65.90.
    • Medical Certificate: You will need to provide a medical certificate, which can cost between EUR30 and EUR50, depending upon the medical professional and the region.
    • Translation of Foreign License: If your foreign license is not in French, you will require to have it equated by a certified translator. The cost of this service can vary from EUR20 to EUR50.
  2. Testing Requirements

    • Theory Test: If your foreign license is from a nation 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.
    • Dry run: In some cases, you may need to take a dry run as well. The fee for this test is EUR101.80.
  3. License Issuance

    • Issuance Fee: Once you have finished the required tests and offered all necessary documentation, the issuance charge for the French driving license is EUR25.20.

Costs for Renewal or Replacement

If you already have a French driving license and require to renew or replace it, the expenses are normally lower:

  1. Renewal

    • Renewal Fee: The renewal charge for a French driving license is EUR25.20. This cost covers the administrative expenses and the production of the new license.
    • Medical Certificate: You will require to provide a medical certificate, which can cost in between EUR30 and EUR50.
  2. Replacement

    • Replacement Fee: If you require to change a lost, stolen, or damaged license, the replacement fee is EUR25.20.
    • Police Report: If your license has been lost or taken, you might require to file an authorities report, which can cost around EUR20.

Extra Costs to Consider

  1. Driving School Insurance: Many driving schools require you to have insurance coverage while you are discovering. The cost of this insurance coverage can differ, but it typically ranges from EUR100 to EUR200 for a year.
  2. Practice Car: If you select to practice driving beyond driving school lessons, you will require to have a car that is appropriately guaranteed. The expense of car insurance coverage can be a substantial extra cost.
  3. Roadway Tax (Taxe Routière): While not directly related to getting a driving license, it is worth noting that you will need to pay roadway tax if you own a car in France. The amount varies based on the type and age of the vehicle.

Steps to Obtain a French Driving License

For new students, the process to acquire a French driving license typically involves the following actions:

  1. Enroll in a Driving School: Choose a reputable driving school (auto-école) and enlist in a driving course.
  2. Complete the Theory Course: Attend the theory classes and get ready for the theory test.
  3. Take the Theory Test: Schedule and take the theory test at the Prefecture. You must pass this test to proceed to the practical test.
  4. Complete Driving Lessons: Take the necessary number of driving lessons to get ready for the dry run.
  5. Take the Practical Test: Schedule and take the useful driving test. If you stop working, you can retake the test after a waiting duration.
  6. Make an application for the License: Once you pass the practical test, look for the actual driving license at the Prefecture.
  7. Receive the License: Wait for the license to be provided and sent out to your address.

For skilled motorists with an international license, the process may be somewhat various:

  1. Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your nation has a reciprocal contract with France, which may simplify the procedure.
  2. Collect Documentation: Collect all essential documents, including your valid international license, a medical certificate, and a licensed translation of your license if required.
  3. Apply for the License: Submit your application and pay the application fee at the Prefecture.
  4. Take Required Tests: If needed, take the theory and/or dry runs.
  5. Get the License: Wait for the license to be issued and sent to your address.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How much does a driving license cost in France for a new learner?

  • The total expense for a new student can range from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, consisting of driving school costs, theory test charges, practical test costs, and the issuance cost.

Q2: What is the expense of transforming an international driving license to a French driving license?

  • The cost of converting an international license can range from EUR120 to EUR200, consisting of the application fee, 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 approximately one year from the date of your arrival. However, it is recommended to transform your license to a French one to avoid any legal issues.

Q4: Are there any discount rates offered for driving school fees?

  • Some driving schools use discount rates for trainees, young chauffeurs, or those who pay in advance. It is worth asking about these discounts when selecting a driving school.

Q5: What happens if I fail the practical test?

  • If you fail the dry run, you can retake it after a waiting period. Each retake will cost an additional EUR101.80.

Q6: How long does it take to receive a French driving license after passing the practical test?

  • The processing time for the issuance of a French driving license can differ, but it usually takes around 3 to 6 weeks.

Q7: Can I drive with a provisional license while awaiting my French driving license?

  • No, you can not drive with a provisional license in France. You should wait for the real license to be issued before driving.

Q8: Is it compulsory to take driving lessons from a professional driving school?

  • Yes, it is mandatory to take driving lessons from a professional driving school in France. Self-teaching is not allowed.

Tips for Saving Money

  1. Select a Driving School Wisely: Research and compare driving schools in your area to discover the one that offers the finest value for cash. Some schools might offer discount rates or special packages.
  2. Study Independently: While the majority of driving schools consist of the theory course in their packages, studying independently can save you some cash on theory products.
  3. Practice with Friends or Family: If you have buddies or household who are currently accredited drivers, they can help you practice driving beyond driving school lessons, possibly decreasing the number of lessons you need.
  4. Take the Theory Test Early: Taking the theory test early can help you concentrate on the useful elements of driving, which may decrease the number of driving lessons you need.
  5. Retake Tests Quickly: If you stop working a test, retake it as soon as possible to avoid paying for additional lessons or exams.

Acquiring a French driving license can be an expensive undertaking, but it is a required action for anyone who wishes to drive legally in France. By understanding the different expenses and steps included, you can much better get ready for the process and possibly save cash along the way. Whether you are a new student or a knowledgeable driver, the key is to select the best driving school, study diligently, and finish the required tests effectively. With the right method, you can browse the system and take pleasure in the flexibility of driving in France.


This guide provides a thorough summary of the costs associated with obtaining a French driving license, from the preliminary learning stage to the last issuance of the license. By following these actions and pointers, you can make the procedure as smooth and affordable as possible.

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Pub: 22 Feb 2025 02:57 UTC
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