12 Companies Leading The Way In French Driving License Cost

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

Getting a driving license in France can be a complex and in some cases pricey process, specifically for those who are not familiar with the system. Whether you are a new citizen, a foreigner aiming to convert an international license, or a French resident seeking to renew or change a lost license, understanding the various expenses included is essential. This post provides an in-depth breakdown of the costs connected with the French driving license, together with some frequently asked questions to help browse the process.

Summary of the French Driving License

In France, the driving license (Permis de Conduire) is released by the Prefecture and is needed to run a motor automobile legally. acheter un permis de conduire français to acquire a French driving license varies depending upon your scenario, such as whether you are a new learner, a knowledgeable driver, or an immigrant with an international license. The costs also differ based upon these elements.

Expenses for New Learners

For people who are new to driving, the procedure involves 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 considerable cost. Since 2023, the average cost of a driving school plan in France varies from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, depending upon the region and the variety of lessons included. Some driving schools provide flexible packages, allowing you to pay as you go or choose a fixed number of lessons.
    • Theory Course: Most driving schools include a theory course in their packages. However, if you choose to study independently, you can purchase theory books or online resources. The expense of these materials normally ranges from EUR20 to EUR100.
    • Theory Test Fee: The charge for the theory test is EUR34.50. acheter un permis de conduire français can take the test numerous 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 dry run if you fail, but each retake will require an extra charge.
    • Additional Practice: If you require more practice before the test, extra driving lessons can be costly. The typical cost per lesson is around EUR35 to EUR45.
  3. Issuance of the License

    • License Issuance Fee: After passing the useful test, you will need to use for the actual driving license. The issuance cost is EUR25.20.

Costs for Experienced Drivers with an International License

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

  1. Application Process

    • Application Fee: The application charge for a French driving license for immigrants with a legitimate international license is EUR65.90.
    • Medical Certificate: You will require to provide a medical certificate, which can cost in between EUR30 and EUR50, depending upon the doctor 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 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 reciprocal arrangement with France, you may 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 need to take a dry run as well. The cost for this test is EUR101.80.
  3. License Issuance

    • Issuance Fee: Once you have finished the required tests and provided all needed documents, the issuance fee for the French driving license is EUR25.20.

Expenses for Renewal or Replacement

If you already have a French driving license and require to renew or replace it, the expenses are generally 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 need to supply a medical certificate, which can cost in between EUR30 and EUR50.
  2. Replacement

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

Extra Costs to Consider

  1. Driving School Insurance: Many driving schools need you to have insurance while you are finding out. The cost of this insurance can vary, however it normally varies from EUR100 to EUR200 for a year.
  2. Practice Car: If you select to practice driving outside of driving school lessons, you will need to have a car that is correctly insured. The expense of car insurance coverage can be a significant additional cost.
  3. Road Tax (Taxe Routière): While not directly related to acquiring a driving license, it is worth keeping in mind that you will require to pay road 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 procedure to get a French driving license usually includes the following steps:

  1. Enroll in a Driving School: Choose a reputable driving school (auto-école) and enlist in a driving course.
  2. Total 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 should pass this test to continue to the practical test.
  4. Total Driving Lessons: Take the necessary number of driving lessons to get ready 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. Obtain the License: Once you pass the dry run, get the actual driving license at the Prefecture.
  7. Receive the License: Wait for the license to be provided and sent to your address.

For skilled drivers with an international license, the procedure may be somewhat different:

  1. Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your country has a mutual agreement with France, which may streamline the process.
  2. Collect Documentation: Collect all required files, including your valid international license, a medical certificate, and a certified translation of your license if required.
  3. Make an application for the License: Submit your application and pay the application fee at the Prefecture.
  4. Take Required Tests: If required, take the theory and/or useful tests.
  5. Get the License: Wait for the license to be provided and sent out to your address.

Regularly Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

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

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

  • The cost of transforming an international license can range from EUR120 to EUR200, including the application charge, 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 up to one year from the date of your arrival. However, it is recommended to transform your license to a French one to prevent any legal concerns.

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

  • Some driving schools use discounts for students, young drivers, or those who pay beforehand. It is worth asking about these discount rates when selecting a driving school.

Q5: What occurs if I stop working the useful test?

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

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

  • The processing time for the issuance of a French driving license can vary, however it usually 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 provisionary license in France. You need to await the actual license to be provided before driving.

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

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

Tips for Saving Money

  1. Choose a Driving School Wisely: Research and compare driving schools in your location to find the one that uses the best value for cash. Some schools may provide discounts or unique bundles.
  2. Study Independently: While a lot of driving schools include the theory course in their bundles, studying independently can conserve you some cash on theory products.
  3. Practice with Friends or Family: If you have pals or family who are currently certified chauffeurs, they can assist you practice driving outside of driving school lessons, potentially decreasing the variety of lessons you require.
  4. Take the Theory Test Early: Taking the theory test early can assist you concentrate on the practical aspects of driving, which might reduce 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 extra lessons or examinations.

Obtaining a French driving license can be a pricey endeavor, however it is a needed step for anybody who wants to drive legally in France. By understanding the various expenses and actions included, you can better get ready for the procedure and possibly save cash along the method. Whether you are a new learner or a skilled driver, the secret is to choose the ideal driving school, study diligently, and finish the needed tests effectively. With the best approach, you can browse the system and enjoy the liberty of driving in France.


This guide supplies a detailed overview of the costs related to getting a French driving license, from the preliminary learning phase to the final issuance of the license. By following these steps and ideas, you can make the procedure as smooth and cost-effective as possible.

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Pub: 28 Feb 2025 08:34 UTC

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