French Driving License Cost: A Simple Definition

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

Getting a driving license in France can be a complex and sometimes costly procedure, especially for those who are not familiar with the system. Whether you are a new homeowner, an immigrant seeking to transform an international license, or a French citizen seeking to renew or replace a lost license, comprehending the different costs included is important. This post offers an in-depth breakdown of the expenses associated with the French driving license, in addition to some regularly asked concerns to assist navigate the process.

Introduction of the French Driving License

In France, the driving license (Permis de Conduire) is provided by the Prefecture and is required to operate an automobile legally. The process to obtain a French driving license varies 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 vary based upon these factors.

Costs for New Learners

For people who are new to driving, the procedure involves 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 plan in France ranges from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, depending upon the region and the variety of lessons consisted of. Some driving schools provide flexible plans, permitting you to pay as you go or choose a set number of lessons.
    • Theory Course: Most driving schools include a theory course in their plans. However, if you prefer to study separately, you can buy theory books or online resources. The cost 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 numerous times, but each attempt will incur 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 practical test if you fail, however each retake will need an extra fee.
    • Additional Practice: If you need more practice before the test, extra driving lessons can be expensive. The typical expense per lesson is around EUR35 to EUR45.
  3. Issuance of the License

    • License Issuance Fee: After passing the dry run, you will require to obtain the actual driving license. The issuance fee is EUR25.20.

Costs for Experienced Drivers with an International License

If you currently have a legitimate driving license from another nation, the process of acquiring a French driving license can be more simple, however it still involves some costs:

  1. Application Process

    • Application Fee: The application cost for a French driving license for foreigners with a valid international license is EUR65.90.
    • Medical Certificate: You will need to offer a medical certificate, which can cost in between EUR30 and EUR50, depending on the doctor and the area.
    • Translation of Foreign License: If your foreign license is not in French, you will need to have it equated by a licensed translator. Licence France Xpress 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 country that does not have such an arrangement, you will require to take the theory test, which costs EUR34.50.
    • Dry run: In some cases, you might require to take a dry run also. The cost for this test is EUR101.80.
  3. License Issuance

    • Issuance Fee: Once you have actually completed the needed tests and supplied all necessary documentation, the issuance charge for the French driving license is EUR25.20.

Costs for Renewal or Replacement

If you currently have a French driving license and require to restore or change it, the costs 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 provide a medical certificate, which can cost between EUR30 and EUR50.
  2. Replacement

    • Replacement Fee: If you require to replace a lost, stolen, or harmed license, the replacement charge is EUR25.20.
    • Police Report: If your license has actually been lost or stolen, you may require to submit a police report, which can cost around EUR20.

Extra Costs to Consider

  1. Driving School Insurance: Many driving schools require you to have insurance while you are learning. The expense of this insurance can vary, but it generally varies 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 can be a considerable additional cost.
  3. Road Tax (Taxe Routière): While not directly related to obtaining a driving license, it is worth noting that you will need to pay roadway tax if you own a car in France. The quantity varies based upon the type and age of the car.

Actions to Obtain a French Driving License

For new learners, the process to get a French driving license usually includes the following steps:

  1. Enroll in a Driving School: Choose a respectable driving school (auto-école) and enlist in a driving course.
  2. Total 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 must pass this test to proceed to the dry run.
  4. Total Driving Lessons: Take the necessary number of driving lessons to prepare for the practical test.
  5. Take the Practical Test: Schedule and take the practical driving test. If you fail, you can retake the test after a waiting duration.
  6. Make an application for the License: Once you pass the useful test, look 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 knowledgeable chauffeurs with an international license, the procedure might be slightly different:

  1. Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your nation has a mutual arrangement with France, which might streamline the process.
  2. Collect Documentation: Collect all required documents, including your valid international license, a medical certificate, and a qualified translation of your license if required.
  3. Request the License: Submit your application and pay the application fee at the Prefecture.
  4. Take Required Tests: If required, take the theory and/or dry runs.
  5. Receive the License: Wait for the license to be issued and sent out to your address.

Often Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

  • The overall expense for a new student can vary from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, including driving school costs, theory test costs, dry run charges, and the issuance fee.

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

  • The expense of converting an international license can vary from EUR120 to EUR200, including the application fee, medical certificate, and any required translation expenses.

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 a good idea to transform your license to a French one to prevent any legal problems.

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

  • Some driving schools offer discounts for trainees, young chauffeurs, or those who pay beforehand. It is worth asking about these discount rates when picking a driving school.

Q5: What occurs if I fail 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 vary, but it normally takes around 3 to 6 weeks.

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

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

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

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

Tips for Saving Money

  1. Pick a Driving School Wisely: Research and compare driving schools in your area to find the one that offers the finest worth for cash. Some schools may provide discounts or unique bundles.
  2. Study Independently: While most driving schools consist of the theory course in their plans, studying individually can conserve you some money on theory materials.
  3. Practice with Friends or Family: If you have good friends or family who are currently accredited motorists, they can help you practice driving outside of driving school lessons, potentially reducing the number of lessons you need.
  4. Take the Theory Test Early: Taking the theory test early can assist you focus on the useful aspects of driving, which might minimize the variety of driving lessons you need.
  5. Retake Tests Quickly: If you fail a test, retake it as soon as possible to avoid paying for additional lessons or examinations.

Getting a French driving license can be a costly undertaking, but it is an essential action for anybody who wishes to drive legally in France. By comprehending the different costs and steps included, you can better get ready for the process and potentially save money along the method. Whether you are a new student or an experienced driver, the secret is to select the best driving school, research study diligently, and finish the needed tests efficiently. With the right approach, you can navigate the system and delight in the flexibility of driving in France.


This guide supplies a thorough summary of the costs related to getting a French driving license, from the initial learning phase to the last issuance of the license. By following these steps and tips, you can make the procedure as smooth and affordable as possible.

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Pub: 22 Feb 2025 03:46 UTC

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