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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 procedure, specifically for those who are not familiar with the system. Whether you are a new local, a foreigner seeking to convert an international license, or a French person seeking to restore or change a lost license, comprehending the numerous costs involved is vital. This article supplies an in-depth breakdown of the costs associated with the French driving license, in addition to some frequently asked concerns to help navigate the process.

Introduction of the French Driving License

In France, the driving license (Permis de Conduire) is released by the Prefecture and is needed to run an automobile legally. The process to acquire a French driving license varies depending upon your scenario, such as whether you are a new student, a knowledgeable driver, or an immigrant with an international license. try these out vary based upon these elements.

Expenses for New Learners

For individuals who are new to driving, the procedure includes 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 significant expense. As of 2023, the average expense of a driving school bundle in France varies from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, depending upon the region and the number of lessons included. Some driving schools offer flexible plans, enabling you to pay as you go or choose a fixed variety of lessons.
    • Theory Course: Most driving schools include a theory course in their packages. However, if you choose to study individually, you can buy theory books or online resources. The cost of these products normally varies from EUR20 to EUR100.
    • Theory Test Fee: The fee for the theory test is EUR34.50. You can take the test several times, however each effort will sustain a new cost.
  2. Practical Driving Test

    • Practical Test Fee: The cost for the practical driving test is EUR101.80. Like the theory test, you can retake the useful test if you stop working, however each retake will require an additional charge.
    • Additional Practice: If you require more practice before the test, extra driving lessons can be costly. 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 require to request 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 getting a French driving license can be more uncomplicated, but it still involves some costs:

  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 need to supply 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 qualified translator. The cost 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 may be exempt from the theory test. However, if you are from a country that does not have such an arrangement, you will need to take the theory test, which costs EUR34.50.
    • Practical Test: In some cases, you might require to take a practical test also. The cost for this test is EUR101.80.
  3. License Issuance

    • Issuance Fee: Once you have completed the required tests and provided all essential paperwork, 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 renew or change it, the costs are usually lower:

  1. Renewal

    • Renewal Fee: The renewal fee for a French driving license is EUR25.20. This cost covers the administrative costs and the production of the new license.
    • Medical Certificate: You will need to offer a medical certificate, which can cost in between EUR30 and EUR50.
  2. Replacement

    • Replacement Fee: If you require to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged license, the replacement cost is EUR25.20.
    • Authorities Report: If your license has actually been lost or stolen, you might need to file an authorities report, which can cost around EUR20.

Additional Costs to Consider

  1. Driving School Insurance: Many driving schools need you to have insurance while you are finding out. acheter un permis de conduire enregistré of this insurance can differ, however it generally varies from EUR100 to EUR200 for a year.
  2. Practice Car: If you select to practice driving outside of driving school lessons, you will require to have a car that is properly insured. The expense of car insurance coverage can be a considerable extra expenditure.
  3. Road Tax (Taxe Routière): While not straight related to getting a driving license, it deserves keeping in mind that you will need to pay road tax if you own a car in France. The amount varies based on the type and age of the lorry.

Steps to Obtain a French Driving License

For new students, the process to acquire a French driving license usually includes the following steps:

  1. Enroll in a Driving School: Choose a respectable 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 should pass this test to continue to the dry run.
  4. Complete 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 period.
  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 issued and sent to your address.

For skilled motorists with an international license, the process may be slightly various:

  1. Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your nation has a mutual arrangement with France, which may simplify the procedure.
  2. Gather Documentation: Collect all required documents, including your legitimate international license, a medical certificate, and a licensed translation of your license if required.
  3. Make an application for the License: Submit your application and pay the application charge at the Prefecture.
  4. Take Required Tests: If needed, take the theory and/or dry runs.
  5. Get the License: Wait for the license to be released and sent to your address.

Often Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

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

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 charge, 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. Nevertheless, it is a good idea to transform your license to a French one to prevent any legal problems.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • No, you can not drive with a provisional license in France. You need to await the real license to be provided before driving.

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

  • Yes, it is compulsory 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 offers the finest value for cash. Some schools may use discounts or special bundles.
  2. Study Independently: While a lot of driving schools include the theory course in their bundles, studying individually can save you some money on theory materials.
  3. Practice with Friends or Family: If you have friends or family who are currently accredited drivers, they can help you practice driving outside of driving school lessons, potentially lowering the number of lessons you require.
  4. Take the Theory Test Early: Taking the theory test early can help you concentrate on the useful aspects of driving, which might minimize 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 extra lessons or exams.

Getting a French driving license can be a costly venture, but it is an essential step for anybody who wants to drive legally in France. By understanding the different costs and actions involved, you can much better prepare for the process and possibly save cash along the method. Whether you are a new learner or a skilled driver, the secret is to select the ideal driving school, research study vigilantly, and finish the needed tests effectively. With the best approach, you can navigate the system and delight in the liberty of driving in France.


This guide provides a detailed introduction of the expenses related to acquiring a French driving license, from the preliminary knowing phase to the last issuance of the license. By following these steps and tips, you can make the process as smooth and cost-effective as possible.



Member since: Thursday, February 27, 2025

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