The Ultimate Glossary Of Terms For French Driving License Cost

· 7 min read
The Ultimate Glossary Of Terms For French Driving License Cost

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

Obtaining a driving license in France can be a complex and in some cases expensive procedure, particularly for those who are not knowledgeable about the system. Whether you are a new homeowner, a foreigner wanting to convert an international license, or a French resident seeking to restore or replace a lost license, understanding the different costs included is essential. This post supplies an in-depth breakdown of the costs related to the French driving license, together with some often asked questions to assist navigate the procedure.

Summary of the French Driving License

In France, the driving license (Permis de Conduire) is released by the Prefecture and is required to operate a motor vehicle legally. The procedure to get a French driving license differs depending on your situation, such as whether you are a new student, an experienced driver, or an immigrant with an international license. The costs also differ based upon these elements.

Costs for New Learners

For individuals who are new to driving, the process involves several actions, each with its own set of expenses:

Learning to Drive

  • Driving School (Auto-école) Fees: The expense of driving lessons is the most considerable expense. Since 2023, the average cost of a driving school package in France ranges from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, depending upon the region and the number of lessons included. Some driving schools use versatile packages, permitting you to pay as you go or select a fixed variety of lessons.
  • Theory Course: Most driving schools consist of a theory course in their bundles. However, if you choose to study independently, you can purchase theory books or online resources. The expense of these products typically varies from EUR20 to EUR100.
  • Theory Test Fee: The charge for the theory test is EUR34.50. You can take the test multiple times, however each attempt will sustain a new fee.

Practical Driving Test

  • Dry Run Fee: The cost 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 fee.
  • Extra Practice: If you require more practice before the test, additional driving lessons can be costly. The typical cost per lesson is around EUR35 to EUR45.

Issuance of the License

Expenses for Experienced Drivers with an International License

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

Application Process

  • Application Fee: The application fee for a French driving license for foreigners with a valid international license is EUR65.90.
  • Medical Certificate: You will require 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 require to have it translated by a certified translator. The cost of this service can vary from EUR20 to EUR50.

Testing Requirements

  • Theory Test: If your foreign license is from a country that has a reciprocal contract with France, you might be exempt from the theory test. Nevertheless, if you are from a nation that does not have such an agreement, 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 too. The cost for this test is EUR101.80.

License Issuance

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

Expenses for Renewal or Replacement

If you already have a French driving license and require to restore or change it, the expenses are typically lower:

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 require to supply a medical certificate, which can cost in between EUR30 and EUR50.

Replacement

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

Additional Costs to Consider

  1. Driving School Insurance: Many driving schools require you to have insurance while you are learning. The cost of this insurance coverage can differ, however it generally ranges from EUR100 to EUR200 for a year.
  2. Practice Car: If you select to practice driving beyond driving school lessons, you will need to have a car that is appropriately insured. The cost of car insurance can be a significant additional expenditure.
  3. Roadway Tax (Taxe Routière): While not directly associated to acquiring a driving license, it deserves keeping in mind that you will require to pay road tax if you own a car in France. The amount differs based on the type and age of the lorry.

Actions to Obtain a French Driving License

For new students, the process to get a French driving license usually involves the following steps:

  1. Enroll in a Driving School: Choose a trusted 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 required number of driving lessons to prepare 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. Use for the License: Once you pass the practical test, request the actual driving license at the Prefecture.
  7. Receive the License: Wait for the license to be provided and sent to your address.

For knowledgeable chauffeurs with an international license, the procedure might be somewhat various:

  1. Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your nation has a reciprocal agreement with France, which may simplify the process.
  2. Collect Documentation: Collect all needed documents, including your legitimate international license, a medical certificate, and a certified translation of your license if needed.
  3. Obtain the License: Submit your application and pay the application cost at the Prefecture.
  4. Take Required Tests: If required, take the theory and/or practical tests.
  5. Receive the License: Wait for the license to be issued and sent out to your address.

Regularly Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

  • The overall cost for a new learner can range from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, consisting of driving school charges, theory test charges, dry run charges, and the issuance fee.

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

  • The cost of converting an international license can vary from EUR120 to EUR200, including the application cost, 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 up to one year from the date of your arrival. Nevertheless, it is a good idea to transform your license to a French one to avoid any legal problems.

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

  • Some driving schools offer discounts for students, young drivers, or those who pay ahead of time. It is worth asking about these discount rates when picking a driving school.

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

  • If you fail the dry run, you can retake it after a waiting duration. Each retake will cost an extra EUR101.80.

Q6: How long does it take to receive 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 on my French driving license?

  • No, you can not drive with a provisionary license in France. You should wait on the real license to be provided before driving.

Q8: Is it mandatory to take driving lessons from an expert driving school?

  • Yes, it is obligatory to take driving lessons from an expert driving school in France. Self-teaching is not permitted.

Tips for Saving Money

  1. Choose a Driving School Wisely: Research and compare driving schools in your area to find the one that provides the very best worth for money. Some schools may use discounts or unique packages.
  2. Study Independently: While the majority 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 pals or family who are already certified chauffeurs, they can assist you practice driving beyond driving school lessons, possibly lowering the number of lessons you need.
  4. Take the Theory Test Early: Taking the theory test early can assist you focus on the useful elements of driving, which might minimize the variety of driving lessons you require.
  5. Retake Tests Quickly: If you stop working a test, retake it as soon as possible to prevent spending for additional lessons or tests.

Obtaining a French driving license can be an expensive venture, but it is an essential action for anyone who wants to drive legally in France. By understanding the numerous expenses and steps included, you can better prepare for the procedure and possibly conserve money along the method. Whether you are a new learner or an experienced driver, the secret is to choose the ideal driving school, research study vigilantly, and finish the required tests efficiently. With the right method, you can browse the system and enjoy the freedom of driving in France.


This guide supplies a thorough overview of the expenses connected with obtaining a French driving license, from the initial knowing phase to the last issuance of the license. By following these steps and pointers, you can make the procedure as smooth and economical as possible.