7 Simple Secrets To Totally Rocking Your French Driving License Cost

7 Simple Secrets To Totally Rocking Your French Driving License Cost


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 expensive procedure, especially for those who are not acquainted with the system. Whether you are a new homeowner, an immigrant seeking to transform an international license, or a French resident looking for to renew or change a lost license, understanding the numerous costs included is vital. This post provides an in-depth breakdown of the costs related to the French driving license, along with some frequently asked questions to help 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 run an automobile legally. The procedure to obtain a French driving license differs depending on your situation, such as whether you are a new student, a skilled driver, or a foreigner with an international license. The costs likewise vary based on these elements.

Costs for New Learners

For people who are new to driving, the procedure involves several 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 considerable expense. As of 2023, the average expense of a driving school plan in France ranges from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, depending upon the region and the number of lessons included. Some driving schools offer versatile plans, enabling you to pay as you go or pick a set number of lessons.
    • Theory Course: Most driving schools include a theory course in their plans. However, if you choose to study independently, you can acquire theory books or online resources. The cost of these products 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, but each effort will incur a new charge.
  2. Practical Driving Test

    • Practical Test Fee: The cost for the useful driving test is EUR101.80. Like click the up coming web page , you can retake the dry run if you stop working, however each retake will require an extra cost.
    • Extra Practice: If you need more practice before the test, extra driving lessons can be costly. The typical cost per lesson is around EUR35 to EUR45.
  3. Issuance of the License

    • License Issuance Fee: After passing the dry run, you will need to get the real 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 country, the process of getting a French driving license can be more simple, however it still involves some expenses:

  1. Application Process

    • Application Fee: The application fee for a French driving license for immigrants with a valid 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 physician and the region.
    • Translation of Foreign License: If your foreign license is not in French, you will require to have it equated by a licensed translator. The expense of this service can range 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. However, if you are from a nation that does not have such an arrangement, you will need to take the theory test, which costs EUR34.50.
    • Dry run: In some cases, you might require to take a practical test as well. The fee for this test is EUR101.80.
  3. License Issuance

    • Issuance Fee: Once you have completed the needed tests and supplied all needed documentation, the issuance fee for the French driving license is EUR25.20.

Expenses for Renewal or Replacement

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

  1. Renewal

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

    • Replacement Fee: If you need to change a lost, stolen, or damaged license, the replacement cost is EUR25.20.
    • Authorities Report: If your license has actually been lost or taken, you might need to submit an authorities 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 finding out. The cost of this insurance coverage can vary, however it generally ranges from EUR100 to EUR200 for a year.
  2. Practice Car: If you pick to practice driving outside of driving school lessons, you will need to have a car that is appropriately guaranteed. The cost of car insurance can be a substantial additional cost.
  3. Road Tax (Taxe Routière): While not straight associated to obtaining a driving license, it deserves noting that you will require to pay roadway tax if you own a car in France. The quantity varies based upon the type and age of the vehicle.

Steps to Obtain a French Driving License

For new learners, the procedure to acquire a French driving license typically includes the following steps:

  1. Enroll in a Driving School: Choose a reputable 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 need to pass this test to proceed to the useful test.
  4. Complete Driving Lessons: Take the required variety of driving lessons to prepare for the practical test.
  5. Take the Practical Test: Schedule and take the useful driving test. If you fail, you can retake the test after a waiting duration.
  6. Look for the License: Once you pass the dry run, use for the actual driving license at the Prefecture.
  7. Get the License: Wait for the license to be issued and sent to your address.

For knowledgeable drivers with an international license, the process might be a little different:

  1. Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your nation has a mutual arrangement with France, which may simplify the procedure.
  2. Gather Documentation: Collect all necessary files, including your valid international license, a medical certificate, and a licensed translation of your license if needed.
  3. Get 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 out to your address.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

  • The total expense for a new student can range from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, including driving school costs, theory test fees, dry run charges, 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 range 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 suggested to convert your license to a French one to avoid any legal problems.

Q4: Are there any discount rates readily available for driving school charges?

  • Some driving schools use discounts for students, young chauffeurs, or those who pay beforehand. It deserves inquiring about these discounts when selecting a driving school.

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

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

Q6: How long does it require to receive a French driving license after passing the practical test?

  • The processing time for the issuance of a French driving license can vary, but it typically 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 released before driving.

Q8: Is it obligatory 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 enabled.

Tips for Saving Money

  1. Pick a Driving School Wisely: Research and compare driving schools in your area to discover the one that uses the very best worth for money. obtenir le permis de conduire français might use discounts or special packages.
  2. Research study Independently: While many driving schools include the theory course in their packages, studying separately can conserve you some money on theory materials.
  3. Practice with Friends or Family: If you have pals or household who are already certified motorists, they can assist you practice driving beyond driving school lessons, possibly reducing the variety of lessons you need.
  4. Take the Theory Test Early: Taking the theory test early can assist you focus on the practical aspects of driving, which might reduce the number 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 tests.

Getting a French driving license can be a costly venture, but it is a required step for anyone who desires to drive legally in France. By understanding the numerous costs and steps involved, you can better prepare for the procedure and potentially conserve cash along the method. Whether you are a new student or a skilled driver, the secret is to select the ideal driving school, study diligently, and finish the needed tests efficiently. With the best technique, you can browse the system and enjoy the flexibility of driving in France.


This guide offers a detailed overview of the costs related to acquiring a French driving license, from the initial knowing stage to the last issuance of the license. By following these steps and suggestions, you can make the procedure as smooth and cost-efficient as possible.

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