20 Irrefutable Myths About French Driving License Cost: Busted

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

Getting a driving license in France can be a complex and often costly procedure, particularly for those who are not knowledgeable about the system. Whether you are a new citizen, a foreigner aiming to convert an international license, or a French person looking for to renew or replace a lost license, comprehending the numerous costs involved is important. This short article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the expenses connected with the French driving license, in addition to some often asked questions to assist browse the process.

Introduction of the French Driving License

In France, the driving license (Permis de Conduire) is provided by the Prefecture and is needed to run an automobile legally. The procedure to acquire a French driving license differs depending on your situation, such as whether you are a new student, a skilled driver, or a foreigner with an international license. The costs also differ based upon these elements.

Expenses for New Learners

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

  1. Learning to Drive

    • Driving School (Auto-école) Fees: The expense of driving lessons is the most significant expenditure. Since 2023, the average cost of a driving school plan in France ranges from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, depending on the region and the variety of lessons consisted of. Some driving schools use flexible plans, permitting you to pay as you go or choose a set variety of lessons.
    • Theory Course: Most driving schools include a theory course in their bundles. Nevertheless, if you prefer to study individually, you can buy theory books or online resources. The expense of these materials usually ranges from EUR20 to EUR100.
    • Theory Test Fee: The charge for the theory test is EUR34.50. You can take the test several times, but each effort will sustain a new cost.
  2. Practical Driving Test

    • Dry Run Fee: The charge for the practical driving test is EUR101.80. Like the theory test, you can retake the practical test if you stop working, however each retake will need an additional fee.
    • Extra Practice: If you require more practice before the test, additional driving lessons can be expensive. The typical cost per lesson is around EUR35 to EUR45.
  3. Issuance of the License

    • License Issuance Fee: After passing the practical test, you will require to make an application for the real driving license. The issuance fee is EUR25.20.

Costs for Experienced Drivers with an International License

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

  1. Application Process

    • Application Fee: The application fee for a French driving license for foreigners with a legitimate international license is EUR65.90.
    • Medical Certificate: You will require to provide a medical certificate, which can cost between EUR30 and EUR50, depending on the doctor and the region.
    • Translation of Foreign License: If your foreign license is not in French, you will require to have it translated by a licensed translator. The expense 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 agreement with France, you might be exempt from the theory test. Nevertheless, if you are from a country 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 fee for this test is EUR101.80.
  3. License Issuance

    • Issuance Fee: Once you have actually finished the needed tests and offered all needed paperwork, 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 need to restore or change it, the expenses are generally lower:

  1. 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 require to supply a medical certificate, which can cost in between EUR30 and EUR50.
  2. Replacement

    • Replacement Fee: If you require to replace a lost, taken, or harmed license, the replacement charge is EUR25.20.
    • Authorities Report: If your license has been lost or stolen, you might need to file a police 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 learning. The cost of this insurance can vary, but it normally varies from EUR100 to EUR200 for a year.
  2. Practice Car: If you choose to practice driving beyond driving school lessons, you will require to have a car that is correctly insured. The expense of car insurance coverage can be a substantial additional expenditure.
  3. Road Tax (Taxe Routière): While not directly associated to getting a driving license, it is worth noting that you will require to pay roadway tax if you own a car in France. here are the findings varies based upon the type and age of the automobile.

Actions to Obtain a French Driving License

For new learners, the procedure to obtain a French driving license normally includes the following actions:

  1. Enroll in a Driving School: Choose a reputable driving school (auto-école) and enroll 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 useful test.
  4. Complete Driving Lessons: Take the required 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 period.
  6. Get the License: Once you pass the practical test, make an application for the real driving license at the Prefecture.
  7. Receive the License: Wait for the license to be issued and sent to your address.

For skilled chauffeurs with an international license, the procedure might be slightly different:

  1. Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your nation has a reciprocal agreement with France, which may simplify the process.
  2. Collect Documentation: Collect all essential files, including your valid international license, a medical certificate, and a certified translation of your license if needed.
  3. Request the License: Submit your application and pay the application charge at the Prefecture.
  4. Take Required Tests: If needed, take the theory and/or useful tests.
  5. Get the License: Wait for the license to be issued and sent to your address.

Regularly Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

  • The overall cost for a new learner can range from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, consisting of driving school costs, theory test costs, dry run costs, and the issuance charge.

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

  • The expense of converting an international license can vary from EUR120 to EUR200, consisting of the application fee, 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 up to one year from the date of your arrival. Nevertheless, it is recommended to convert your license to a French one to avoid any legal concerns.

Q4: Are there any discounts offered for driving school fees?

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

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

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

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

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

Q7: Can I drive with a provisionary license while waiting on my French driving license?

  • No, you can not drive with a provisional license in France. You must await the actual license to be issued before driving.

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

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

Tips for Saving Money

  1. Pick 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 may offer discounts or unique bundles.
  2. Study Independently: While most driving schools include the theory course in their plans, studying individually can save you some cash on theory products.
  3. Practice with Friends or Family: If you have good friends or household who are currently accredited motorists, they can assist you practice driving beyond driving school lessons, potentially decreasing the number of lessons you need.
  4. Take the Theory Test Early: Taking the theory test early can assist you concentrate on the practical aspects of driving, which may lower the variety 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 extra lessons or exams.

Getting a French driving license can be a costly undertaking, but it is a necessary step for anybody who wishes to drive legally in France. By comprehending the numerous costs and steps involved, you can much better prepare for the procedure and possibly save money along the way. Whether you are a new student or a knowledgeable driver, the secret is to pick the ideal driving school, research study vigilantly, and complete the required tests effectively. With the best approach, you can navigate the system and delight in the freedom of driving in France.


This guide offers an extensive introduction of the expenses connected with getting a French driving license, from the initial learning stage to the final issuance of the license. By following these actions and suggestions, you can make the process as smooth and cost-effective as possible.

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Pub: 26 Feb 2025 08:12 UTC
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