Watch Out: What French Driving License Cost Is Taking Over And What Can We Do About It

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

Acquiring a driving license in France can be a complex and in some cases expensive procedure, particularly for those who are not acquainted with the system. Whether you are a new resident, a foreigner aiming to convert an international license, or a French person seeking to restore or replace a lost license, understanding the different expenses included is essential. This short article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the expenses associated with the French driving license, together with some often asked concerns to help navigate the process.

Summary 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 car legally. The procedure to obtain a French driving license varies depending on your scenario, such as whether you are a new learner, a knowledgeable driver, or a foreigner with an international license. acheter un permis de conduire rapidement vary based upon these aspects.

Expenses for New Learners

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

  1. Learning to Drive

    • Driving School (Auto-école) Fees: The cost of driving lessons is the most substantial expenditure. Since 2023, the typical cost of a driving school bundle in France varies from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, depending upon the area and the number of lessons consisted of. Some driving schools offer flexible packages, allowing you to pay as you go or pick a fixed number of lessons.
    • Theory Course: Most driving schools include a theory course in their bundles. However, if you prefer to study individually, you can buy theory books or online resources. The cost of these materials generally varies from EUR20 to EUR100.
    • Theory Test Fee: The fee for the theory test is EUR34.50. You can take the test multiple times, but each effort will incur a new charge.
  2. Practical Driving Test

    • Practical Test Fee: The cost for the useful driving test is EUR101.80. Like the theory test, you can retake the dry run if you stop working, however each retake will need an extra charge.
    • Extra Practice: If you need more practice before the test, extra driving lessons can be pricey. The average cost per lesson is around EUR35 to EUR45.
  3. Issuance of the License

    • License Issuance Fee: After passing the dry run, you will need to obtain the real driving license. The issuance charge is EUR25.20.

Expenses for Experienced Drivers with an International License

If you currently have a legitimate driving license from another nation, the procedure of getting a French driving license can be more straightforward, but it still includes some costs:

  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 require to supply a medical certificate, which can cost in between EUR30 and EUR50, depending on the physician and the region.
    • Translation of Foreign License: If your foreign license is not in French, you will require to have it translated by a certified translator. The expense of this service can range from EUR20 to EUR50.
  2. Testing Requirements

    • Theory Test: If your foreign license is from a country that has a mutual contract with France, you may 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 may need to take a dry run too. The cost for this test is EUR101.80.
  3. License Issuance

    • Issuance Fee: Once you have actually completed the required tests and provided all needed paperwork, 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 need to renew or replace it, the expenses are normally lower:

  1. Renewal

    • Renewal Fee: The renewal fee for a French driving license is EUR25.20. This charge covers the administrative costs and the production of the new license.
    • Medical Certificate: You will require to offer 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 cost is EUR25.20.
    • Cops Report: If your license has actually been lost or taken, you might need to submit a cops report, which can cost around EUR20.

Extra Costs to Consider

  1. Driving School Insurance: Many driving schools need you to have insurance coverage while you are learning. The expense of this insurance can vary, however it generally ranges from EUR100 to EUR200 for a year.
  2. Practice Car: If you pick to practice driving outside of driving school lessons, you will require to have a car that is effectively insured. The expense of car insurance coverage can be a significant extra expense.
  3. Roadway Tax (Taxe Routière): While not straight associated to getting a driving license, it deserves keeping in mind that you will require to pay road tax if you own a car in France. The amount varies based upon the type and age of the car.

Actions to Obtain a French Driving License

For new learners, the process to acquire a French driving license generally includes the following actions:

  1. Enroll in a Driving School: Choose a credible driving school (auto-école) and enlist in a driving course.
  2. Complete the Theory Course: Attend the theory classes and prepare for the theory test.
  3. Take the Theory Test: Schedule and take the theory test at the Prefecture. You need to pass this test to continue to the dry run.
  4. Total 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 practical 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 dry run, get the real driving license at the Prefecture.
  7. Receive the License: Wait for the license to be provided and sent out to your address.

For experienced motorists with an international license, the procedure may be slightly various:

  1. Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your country has a reciprocal agreement with France, which might simplify the process.
  2. Collect Documentation: Collect all necessary documents, including your valid international license, a medical certificate, and a licensed translation of your license if required.
  3. Get the License: Submit your application and pay the application cost at the Prefecture.
  4. Take Required Tests: If needed, take the theory and/or practical tests.
  5. Receive the License: Wait for the license to be released 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 learner can range from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, including driving school costs, theory test charges, practical test costs, and the issuance charge.

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

  • The expense of transforming an international license can vary from EUR120 to EUR200, consisting of the application cost, medical certificate, and any needed 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 recommended to transform your license to a French one to prevent any legal problems.

Q4: Are there any discount rates available for driving school charges?

  • Some driving schools provide discount rates for students, young drivers, or those who pay in advance. It is worth inquiring about these discounts when picking a driving school.

Q5: What happens if I stop working the dry run?

  • If you fail the practical test, you can retake it after a waiting period. Each retake will cost an extra EUR101.80.

Q6: How long does it require to receive a French driving license after passing the dry run?

  • The processing time for the issuance of a French driving license can differ, but it generally 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 provisionary license in France. You should await the actual license to be provided before driving.

Q8: Is it mandatory to take driving lessons from an expert driving school?

  • Yes, it is compulsory to take driving lessons from an expert 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 find the one that provides the best value for cash. Some schools might use discounts or unique packages.
  2. Research study Independently: While a lot of driving schools include the theory course in their packages, studying individually can conserve you some cash on theory materials.
  3. Practice with Friends or Family: If you have friends or household who are already licensed chauffeurs, they can assist you practice driving beyond driving school lessons, possibly minimizing the variety of lessons you require.
  4. Take the Theory Test Early: Taking the theory test early can help you concentrate on the practical aspects of driving, which may decrease the number of driving lessons you require.
  5. Retake Tests Quickly: If you fail a test, retake it as soon as possible to prevent paying for additional lessons or tests.

Getting a French driving license can be a costly undertaking, however it is an essential step for anyone who wishes to drive legally in France. By understanding the various expenses and actions included, you can much better prepare for the process and potentially save cash along the method. Whether you are a new student or a knowledgeable driver, the secret is to select the ideal driving school, research study vigilantly, and finish the needed tests efficiently. With the right approach, you can browse the system and take pleasure in the freedom of driving in France.


This guide provides a comprehensive introduction of the costs connected with acquiring a French driving license, from the preliminary knowing stage to the last issuance of the license. By following these actions and suggestions, you can make the process as smooth and affordable as possible.

Edit Report
Pub: 20 Feb 2025 13:06 UTC
Views: 25