French Driving License Explained In Fewer Than 140 Characters
How to Get a French Driving License
Before you begin driving in France, it's important to know the driving rules. You should also be aware of the requirements for a driving license.
It could take from a few weeks to several months to obtain your French driving licence. It is a pink credit-card format that is valid for 15 years.
Rules of the Road
France is a popular road trip destination due to its stunning countryside and vibrant urban landscapes. To avoid problems with the police, it's essential to be aware of the rules for driving. It is vital to have an active driving licence and insurance papers with you at all times. A driving permit is useful to get around.
Traffic in France is a bit slower than in the United States, and there are more pedestrians on the streets. It is therefore essential to drive with caution and watch out for drivers who turn left in front you. Also, it's not advisable to drive when having consumed alcohol. You could be fined up to 135 euros and lose points on your licence when you are found driving under the impaired.
In France, it is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving. It is only possible to make calls using hands-free technology if your helmet has an integrated headset. You may also be punished for texting or talking while driving if stopped by a police officer. Additionally, you must wear an appropriate seat belt in the front and rear seats. If you have kids under 10 years old in your vehicle, they should be seated in the back and secured with a seat belt or an approved child seat.
You must also carry a copy of your passport at all times. This is required by law and will be checked in the event of a stop for any reason.
It is important to know that speed limits vary on French roads. Autoroutes, for example have a higher limit of speed than other roads. There are also tolls when driving on these roads and can be paid with cash or a credit card.
The most important rule in France is priorite a droite which means that any vehicle coming from your right has right to use the right of way. This is the case regardless of whether the vehicle joining a busy highway through a small village road. This is particularly crucial when driving on country roads where it is normal for cars to cross each other in the middle of the road.
Passing the test
Once you've passed the written test, it's now time to take the practical driving exam. This is a much more difficult portion than the theory test and you'll require a lot of practice before passing. It's essential to locate a driving school which offers plenty of behind-the-wheel instruction prior to taking the test. Before you can drive in France you must be covered by at least third party liability insurance for your vehicle.
Register for the written test by visiting the ANTS site and entering your NEPH (your application number) and an ID photo. In contrast to American passport photos, French driving license photos must be full-face and in color. You can ask for a translator in the event that you are not a native English speaker. However, you must request this at least two days in advance of the test.
After passing the driving test, you'll be issued an CEPC which is your driver's licence examination certificate. This is what you'll have to show to your local prefecture in order to apply for an French driving license. After that, you'll be able to begin driving in France.
If you fail your driving test, it'll take between two and forty-five days for you to take the test again. The number of times that you can take the test again is unlimited, however it is recommended to wait until you are able to take the test.
A driver's license is required for living in France. If you're an expat and intends to stay in France for more than one year, then you'll need to obtain a license before you are able to legally drive on French roads. While some Americans decide to disregard this requirement and continue to drive on their US license beyond the one year date, it could lead to serious accidents and fines.
Luckily there are a few states that have reciprocal agreements with France. Kentucky is one of them. Kentucky allows its citizens to exchange their U.S. drivers' licenses for French ones without undergoing the long, drawn-out procedure of passing a written exam and passing a practical driving test. Some Americans have to go through a long process to obtain their French licenses.
How to obtain a license
If you are an expat or foreign citizen that has an official driver's licence issued by a country with whom France has an agreement of reciprocity You can exchange your licence for one in French one without having to take the driving test. There are some rules to be aware of. Make sure you have a valid driver's license. Then, you must complete an application for the renewal of your license. The form is available online. Follow permis a – permis a2 after selecting Renewal of Driver's License.
Choose the reason you require the license and fill in your driver's info. If you are a licensed driver B you can drive vehicles that weigh up to 3,5 tons, and with a maximum of nine passengers. You can also tow a vehicle no heavier than yours.
The next step is to submit the application to the prefecture of your area. You need to complete all of the required information and attach copies of your identity documents. Make sure that you include your passport or other photo ID, as well as an address proof. If necessary, you will also be required to provide a medical certification. The licences for the categories A and B are valid for 15 years. Those for the categories C, CE, DL, and D are valid for 5 years.
In some cases the need for the French license can be granted in a matter of months. This is particularly applicable to students from abroad who are studying at the French university. Students who aren't enrolled in the French University can expect to wait a lot longer for their license to be granted.
If you're looking to learn how to drive in France should think about taking a driving lesson with a school that teaches English. The majority of schools in Paris offer English courses but not all. If you live outside the capital, contact your local prefecture to ask whether a driving school provides classes in English.
Driving in France
It is crucial to observe the rules of the road and proper etiquette when driving in France. You should also possess a valid driver's licence and third-party liability car insurance in place. It's a great way to understand the rules of the road and language by having driving lessons with an experienced instructor. It is also important to ensure that your vehicle has been properly maintained and filled with fuel prior to your journey. Also, be aware of different speed limits on various types of French roads.
In France, traffic laws are strictly followed. The French have a points system that punishes traffic violations. New drivers begin with six points, and must earn 12 points before their probationary period is over. If you are cited for a traffic violation your points will be withdrawn and the fine will vary depending on the category of the offense.
The first step to get the French driver's license is passing the theory test. This exam consists of 40 questions that examine the rules of the road and traffic safety. The second phase is the practical part of the exam. This involves a minimum of 20 hours of driving under the supervision of an instructor. If you fail the practical portion of the test, it's required to wait a year before attempting again.
You must be at least 18 years old to get an French driver's license and pass medical examination. Those with disabilities and health problems need to undergo a specific medical examination.
If you're from a country that is not part of the EU or EEA you will require an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your regular driving license. The IDP includes a driver's photograph and the translation in 12 languages of their driving licence. It can be obtained at the airport or from an agency for car rental.
Driving in France isn't easy but it is also possible to drive safely with a foreign license, provided you have an IDP. It is important to be aware of the driving laws in France and take some lessons before attempting to drive on your own.