How to Get a French Driving License
If you're an expat and has recently relocated to France, you might need a French driving license. To get one, you'll have to pass both a theory and a practical driving test. The best way to pass this is to go to an instructor at a driving school. They will do the paperwork for you and book the test.
It is valid for three years
A French driving license is valid for three years from the date of the issue. The French driving licence is an image of a pink credit card with the holder's name, photo as well as date of birth and driving rights written on it. The French driving license can also include a number restrictions and conditions. These restrictions may include driving while under the influence.
The prefecture (or the area) issues the French driving license. Licenses have to be renewed every fifteen years and can be used in any EU country in addition to Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. Certain licenses are only valid for five years. For instance, they are valid for heavy vehicles or passenger transport vehicles. You are able to apply for a renewal of your standard French driving license in your home country, or in France. You must pass a written and a practical exam to qualify for the renewal.
If you're an American citizen, you may be able exchange your US license to one in French one without having to pass any tests. This program is only open to Americans who have been in France more than one year and possess the carte de sejour. The process is typically completed within one year, and you need to have your passport or other identification documents with you. The process can take as long as six months, so it's best to begin early.
Only those who are 18 years old and have not lost their driving privileges in the country of origin can get the French licence. You must have third-party liability car insurance and a medical certificate and you should also take at least 30 hours of training in an auto ecole (driving school). These schools are located all over Toulouse and offer French lessons and practice tests. It is a good idea to take some introductory French classes in addition to your French class if you're looking to pass the French test.
You can check your point balance on the Ministry of Interior website or through a letter sent by the prefecture, with reference 48N or 48M. You can recoup points that were withdrawn for a violation by following the directions on the website. A French driving licence is under the name of the person who holds it at birth. Married women can put their maiden names on their licences in the event that they would like.
It carries 12 points
You require an French license to drive in France. You must pass the theory and the practical test to get the French driving license. You also have to pass a medical exam. The theory test is comprised of 40 multiple-choice questions. The practical test is a combination of driving skills and road safety. You may also be required to take a written exam, depending on your age. Then, you must complete a minimum of twenty hours of driving with a driver under the supervision of a driving instructor.
After passing the driving theory and practical test, you will be issued your license within three months. The license is valid for 15 years and must be displayed when driving. The licence must also include a photo as well as the date it was issued. Losing points will be deducted from your license. If you lose 12 points your licence will be suspended at minimum six months.
You can enroll in a course to recover the points that were lost on your licence. These courses are referred to as stages of recovery des points du permit and are offered by centers that have been approved. They cost about EUR200 for a two-day duration. You are only able to recover up to four points each year. You can also get back points that you have lost by avoiding any further traffic offenses for a minimum of two or three years.
It is important to know that you will not be allowed to drive on your foreign licence after one year of residency in France unless you are a student or diplomat. Even if you have passed the French driving test, you have to exchange your license for one that is a French one if you'll reside in the country for more than a year.
It is crucial to understand that driving laws are quite strict in France. The BAC limit in France is lower than that in the United States and police conduct random sobriety tests. In addition, drivers are required to wear headlights at night and they must use them when passing a tunnel or in an emergency or construction zone. They must also use the headlights when it's snowing or raining. The rules differ by region, therefore it is crucial to know the local regulations.
It is possible to exchange it for the French driving license
If you're an American citizen who has an active driver's license issued by the state of Connecticut, Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, North Carolina or Wisconsin you are able to legally drive in France for one year without having to pass an French driving test. However, if you're involved in an accident when driving with this type of license and you are blamed for the accident the insurance company may deny your claim. To avoid this, it is recommended to switch your driver's license in exchange for a French one after you arrive in the country.
You can transfer your license by contact your local Prefecture de Police (or Mairie). Ask for the demande d'echange de permis de conduire form. The procedure differs from region to region. Certain sub-prefectures aren't able to process licence exchanges, so it is important to check before you travel. You'll also require an French translation, which can be done by an embassy or a authorized interpreter.
The application must include an attestation that you've been a resident in France for six months or more. This can be proved by an tax notice or French health certificate. You will also need proof of your identity, like a passport and a photo. The photos must conform to the format of French ID cards. This differs from American passport photographs. The application is sent to ANTS the agency that issues French drivers licenses. It could take a few months for the license to be issued.
After you've completed the exchange, you'll be granted a probationary period before your French license is made permanent. You'll also have to be able to pass a theory and a practical test, also known as an "auto ecole" or ETG. People with disabilities or certain medical conditions may require pass additional tests.
While you can study and prepare for the test on your own, it's usually recommended to enroll in a school that will prepare you in French and handle all the documents. The schools will even give you an hour of driving practice before your actual test.
It is issued by ANTS
A French driving licence is essential for those who have recently moved to France. It's simple to exchange your driving license since France has reciprocal agreements with a majority of countries. You can apply online however you will need to provide supporting documents such as the passport, residence card or other proof of identification.
You can also get an French driving licence after passing the behind-the-wheel test. After the test, you can download your driver's license certificate (CEPC). You will need this number to purchase your physical license.
Make sure you have a valid license and an exam that has been completed recently before driving on French roads. The ANTS website lists approved doctors and hospitals. You can also call your GP to make an appointment.
After you have passed the behind-the-wheel test, you can request your physical license on the ANTS website. To start, log into your ANTS account and click "Je would like to report an error sur mon permis d de conduire for a period of less of 6 months." Fill in the required information, upload any supporting documents, and submit your request.
The processing time for your application will range from 2 and 45 working days. You can drive with a temporary permit granted to you by your prefecture. The cost of a permit varies by region the region. You can also purchase a special driving insurance policy that covers you in case of an accident.
If you're a beginner driver, you should take lessons at a driving school in order to prevent any issues in the future. The driving school should have a list with instructors who are qualified. Ask about their fees, and if they have English-speaking instructors.
You can also request a French driving license from your local prefecture or Mairie. You'll need your current driving licence and proof of residency. It's crucial to verify that the sub-prefectures you're interested in do not accept license exchanges. If you have to visit the prefecture, be sure to check the deadline to submit your application.