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How to Get a French Driving License
If you are an expat it is an excellent idea to take lessons at driving schools. They will take care of all the paperwork for you and reduce the wait time to get the test date.
The French driving license (permis) is a pink credit card. It could take between several weeks to several months to get.
Theory test
The driving theory test, or le code, is an essential step in the French driving license process. The test focuses on traffic laws and road safety regulations, and you can prepare for it by studying an instruction manual or by using mobile apps to help you master. You can also take a no-cost online test to practice. The exam is conducted digitally using tablets in the test center. You must correctly answer at least 35 of the questions to pass.
As in many countries, you can get a French driving license after passing both the theory and practical tests. The French driving test is notoriously difficult. According to Acheter le permis de conduire français B en ligne that only 59.2 percent of men and 54.4 percent of women passed their theory test on the first try, while the success rate for the practical test was even lower at 58.6% for men and 52.8 percent for women. For those who suffer from disabilities or health issues might need to take additional tests.
You can either take the test in conjunction with a driving school which will arrange your classes and test or as an independent candidate. You need to register for the number "NEPH number for prefectoral record harmonise" on the official website of the agency for government ANTS. This number is required to reserve an appointment for a test in theory.
Many driving schools like Pass Rousseau offer online preparation courses that combine live and online classes. These courses can be costly however they also save time. Some schools, such as Fehrenbach are specifically designed toward English students, however they can be more expensive than a normal French driving school.
If you possess a valid driving licence from an area that is a member of the European Union, you can exchange it for one of the French licence if you possess an residence permit in France. The process can be lengthy and you'll need to provide the official translator.
If you don't speak French, you can still take the theory test by using a translator. You can take the test in writing for as many times as you want, and there is no waiting period between tests. The cost for a regular test in theory is EUR30.
Practical test
If you want to drive a car in France, you must pass a theory test (known as le Code) and a practical test. You can either take the theory and practical tests at a driving school that will arrange your tests and lessons, or you can do it on your own. If you opt to be an independent candidate, you will need to register for a NEPH number - Numero Prefectural harmonise number - on the website of government agency ANTS.
The exam's theory is known as le Code and consists of 40 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as traffic laws regulations, road safety and driving regulations. There are free study guides and practice apps online, or buy an Code de la Route book at a bookshop or on the internet. You can get a pass grade if you score 20 or more points, as long as you don't commit any elimination mistakes (such a crossing a solid line or driving to the left, not obeying a stop sign, or disregarding the rules of priority).
During the practical exam an examiner will test your ability to drive under normal traffic conditions and in your vehicle of your choice. The test consists of 25 minutes of driving, and lasts for around two hours. The examiner will also ask you to show your knowledge of basic first aid. The test is taken five times over the course of three years.
As an external candidate, you are able to bring a tutor along to the test however they cannot charge more than the price of a lesson. However, if you're studying at an driving school, they may provide an instructor to accompany you on the practical test. If you fail the test, you can take it again in as many times as want in the next five years.
The tests for practical and theoretical are both in French. You'll need to be fluent in French. Plan ahead and begin learning the language prior to your move to France. The test can be difficult for non-French speakers, and you must aim to attain a reasonable level of fluency before you take the test.
Passing the test
Before taking the test to obtain their French driving license, new drivers should be aware some important points. Before they can drive in France they must pass both the theory and practical tests. Additionally, they must be insured for their vehicle in France and purchase a pollution certificate (called"conduit accompagnee") "conduit accompagnee").
Le code is the first step. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and an oral explanation. The second part is taking the practical test, which is a more challenging test and requires a lot of practice. The test taker will require you to prove your knowledge of the rules of the road and what you should do in an emergency, such as if someone is seriously injured or is unconscious.
Once you have passed the practical and theory tests, you will be issued an official document titled the certificate exam du permis to drive. This document is valid for four months, and can be downloaded onto your tablet or phone. If you are stopped by the police, this is the document you must show them. The word "favorable" will be indicated at the bottom of the document.
Your driver's license must be renewed every 15 years. This can be done by filling in an administrative form and paying a fee. You will also need to provide proof of your identity and address. You can do this online or at your local prefecture office. Enter your file number and your personal code to keep track of the status of your driver's licence online.
It is important to know the French demerit points system in addition to the driving rules. You can lose your driving license if commit a serious offense or accumulate too many points. You may also lose your license if you do not pay fines or been involved in an accident that is serious.
It is important to know that France operates on the right-hand side of the road, and traffic coming from the left is given priority. Additionally, you must keep in mind that the speed limit on departmental and national roads is 80 km/h. On local roads and in cities, however the speed limit is 50 km/h.
Getting your license
It can be difficult to obtain a driving licence in France no matter if you've just completed your French test or are a new expat driver. It is important to be aware of the rules and requirements to get an IDP to avoid being stopped by police or getting into an accident due to invalid driving documents. In order to avoid any trouble the best thing you can do is to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) beforehand. This tiny piece of paper must to be carried on your person when traveling abroad. It can translate your driver's permit into several foreign languages. They are cheap ($20) and easily obtained from your local AAA branch. Even car rental companies accept these.
The majority of expats can swap their licenses to one that is a French one, if their country of origin has reciprocal agreements with France. The process can take from a few weeks up to a few months, based on the prefecture's work load. You'll also need two passport photographs taken recently along with a medical certificate and two envelopes addressed to yourself.
If you do not have a valid ID or your driving licence from another country is expired, you'll need take a theoretical and practical test prior to obtaining an official license. Acheter le permis de conduire français B en ligne with disabilities or specific health conditions may have to take additional tests.
In the event of the second option, a doctor will conduct an examination to assess your driving ability. The test will consist of a theoretical examination and a practical drive in a parking area and an interview with the examiner.
All French drivers are required to have their driving license and registration for their vehicle at all times. French drivers must also carry insurance policies for their vehicles and cars. It is recommended to check with your insurer to make sure your policy covers driving in France and is up to date.
It may seem difficult to get your license in the new country you're moving to, but with the assistance of a reputable driving school, you can do it. While you don't need an instructor in driving to get your French driving license, they can help you with the process by handling all of the paperwork and scheduling your appointment for you.