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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 pricey procedure, particularly for those who are not acquainted with the system. Whether you are a new citizen, a foreigner seeking to convert an international license, or a French resident seeking to renew or change a lost license, comprehending the numerous costs included is necessary. This post offers a comprehensive breakdown of the expenses connected with the French driving license, in addition to some frequently asked questions 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 situation, such as whether you are a new learner, an experienced driver, or an immigrant with an international license. The expenses likewise differ based on these elements.

Expenses for New Learners

For people who are new to driving, the process involves a number of actions, each with its own set of expenses:

  1. Learning to Drive

    • Driving School (Auto-école) Fees: The cost of driving lessons is the most substantial expenditure. Since 2023, the average 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 use flexible plans, allowing you to pay as you go or pick a set variety of lessons.
    • Theory Course: Most driving schools consist of a theory course in their bundles. Nevertheless, if you prefer to study separately, 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 numerous times, however each attempt will incur a new charge.
  2. Practical Driving Test

    • Dry Run Fee: The fee for the useful driving test is EUR101.80. Like the theory test, you can retake the dry run if you stop working, but each retake will need an additional charge.
    • Extra Practice: If you require more practice before the test, additional 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 dry run, you will require to use for the actual driving license. The issuance fee is EUR25.20.

Costs for Experienced Drivers with an International License

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

  1. Application Process

    • Application Fee: The application cost for a French driving license for foreigners with a legitimate international license is EUR65.90.
    • Medical Certificate: You will need to offer a medical certificate, which can cost between EUR30 and EUR50, depending on the medical professional and the region.
    • Translation of Foreign License: If your foreign license is not in French, you will need to have it equated by a licensed translator. acheter un permis de conduire 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 might be exempt from the theory test. Nevertheless, if you are from a country that does not have such a contract, 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 too. The charge for this test is EUR101.80.
  3. License Issuance

    • Issuance Fee: Once you have actually finished the required tests and supplied all needed documents, 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 restore or replace it, the costs are generally lower:

  1. Renewal

    • Renewal Fee: The renewal fee for a French driving license is EUR25.20. This charge 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 need to change a lost, stolen, or damaged license, the replacement fee is EUR25.20.
    • Cops Report: If your license has been lost or stolen, you might require 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 differ, but it typically ranges from EUR100 to EUR200 for a year.
  2. Practice Car: If you choose to practice driving beyond driving school lessons, you will need to have a car that is correctly guaranteed. The cost of car insurance can be a substantial additional cost.
  3. Roadway Tax (Taxe Routière): While not straight associated to getting a driving license, it deserves noting that you will require to pay road tax if you own a car in France. The amount differs based upon the type and age of the vehicle.

Actions to Obtain a French Driving License

For new learners, the procedure to obtain a French driving license usually involves the following steps:

  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 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 dry run.
  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 duration.
  6. Look 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 released and sent out to your address.

For skilled chauffeurs with an international license, the process may be somewhat different:

  1. Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your country has a reciprocal contract with France, which might streamline the process.
  2. Collect Documentation: Collect all essential documents, including your valid international license, a medical certificate, and a certified translation of your license if required.
  3. Look for the License: Submit your application and pay the application charge at the Prefecture.
  4. Take Required Tests: If required, take the theory and/or useful tests.
  5. Receive the License: Wait for the license to be issued and sent to your address.

Often Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

  • The total cost for a new learner can range from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, including driving school charges, theory test charges, practical test fees, and the issuance charge.

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

  • The expense of transforming an international license can range from EUR120 to EUR200, including 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 approximately one year from the date of your arrival. However, it is advisable to convert your license to a French one to prevent any legal concerns.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • No, you can not drive with a provisionary license in France. You should wait for the actual license to be released 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 enabled.

Tips for Saving Money

  1. Select a Driving School Wisely: Research and compare driving schools in your location to discover the one that uses the finest worth for money. Some schools may use discount rates or unique bundles.
  2. Study Independently: While a lot of driving schools include the theory course in their plans, studying separately can conserve you some money on theory materials.
  3. Practice with Friends or Family: If you have buddies or household who are already certified motorists, they can assist you practice driving beyond driving school lessons, possibly lowering the number 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 might lower the variety 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 examinations.

Getting a French driving license can be a pricey endeavor, however it is a required step for anybody who wishes to drive legally in France. By understanding the different expenses and actions included, you can much better prepare for the process and potentially save cash along the way. Whether you are a new learner or a knowledgeable driver, the secret is to choose the ideal driving school, research study diligently, and complete the needed tests efficiently. With the best method, you can browse the system and take pleasure in the freedom of driving in France.


This guide provides a thorough overview of the expenses associated with getting a French driving license, from the initial learning stage to the last issuance of the license. By following these actions and pointers, you can make the process as smooth and cost-efficient as possible.



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