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 pricey procedure, especially for those who are not familiar with the system. Whether you are a new resident, an immigrant aiming to convert an international license, or a French citizen seeking to restore or change a lost license, comprehending the various expenses involved is important. This post provides an in-depth breakdown of the expenditures related to the French driving license, along with some often asked questions to assist browse the process.
Overview 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, an experienced driver, or an immigrant with an international license. The costs likewise vary based upon these aspects.
Costs for New Learners For people who are new to driving, the process includes several actions, each with its own set of expenses:
Learning to Drive
Driving School (Auto-école) Fees: The cost of driving lessons is the most substantial expense. Since 2023, the typical expense of a driving school package in France varies from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, depending on the region and the variety of lessons included. Some driving schools offer versatile packages, enabling you to pay as you go or select a set number of lessons. Theory Course: Most driving schools include a theory course in their bundles. However, if you choose to study separately, you can acquire theory books or online resources. The expense of these materials normally varies from EUR20 to EUR100. Theory Test Fee: The cost for the theory test is EUR34.50. You can take the test several times, however each effort will incur a new cost. Practical Driving Test
Dry Run Fee: The fee for the useful driving test is EUR101.80. Like the theory test, you can retake the useful test if you fail, however each retake will require an extra cost. Extra Practice: If you need more practice before the test, additional driving lessons can be costly. acheter un permis de conduire per lesson is around EUR35 to EUR45. Issuance of the License
License Issuance Fee: After passing the dry run, you will require to request the actual driving license. The issuance charge is EUR25.20. Costs for Experienced Drivers with an International License If you already have a legitimate driving license from another country, the process of obtaining a French driving license can be more straightforward, but it still involves some costs:
Application Process
Application Fee: The application fee for a French driving license for foreigners with a legitimate international license is EUR65.90. Medical Certificate: You will need to provide a medical certificate, which can cost between EUR30 and EUR50, depending upon the doctor and the area. Translation of Foreign License: If your foreign license is not in French, you will need to have it translated by a licensed 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 agreement with France, you might be exempt from the theory test. Nevertheless, 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 dry run too. The cost for this test is EUR101.80. License Issuance
Issuance Fee: Once you have actually completed the required tests and offered 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 require to restore or change it, the costs are generally lower:
Renewal
Renewal Fee: The renewal charge 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 need to provide a medical certificate, which can cost in between EUR30 and EUR50. Replacement
Replacement Fee: If you need to change a lost, stolen, or harmed license, the replacement fee is EUR25.20. Authorities Report: If your license has been lost or taken, you might need to submit an authorities report, which can cost around EUR20. Extra Costs to Consider Driving School Insurance: Many driving schools need you to have insurance while you are discovering. The expense of this insurance can differ, however it generally varies from EUR100 to EUR200 for a year. Practice Car: If you choose to practice driving beyond driving school lessons, you will require to have a car that is properly insured. The expense of car insurance can be a substantial extra expenditure. Roadway Tax (Taxe Routière): While not directly related to acquiring a driving license, it deserves keeping in mind that you will need to pay road tax if you own a car in France. The quantity differs based upon the type and age of the vehicle. Actions to Obtain a French Driving License For new students, the procedure to get a French driving license normally involves the following actions:
Enroll in a Driving School: Choose a credible driving school (auto-école) and enlist in a driving course. Complete the Theory Course: Attend the theory classes and get ready for the theory test. Take the Theory Test: Schedule and take the theory test at the Prefecture. You must pass this test to continue to the dry run. Complete Driving Lessons: Take the necessary variety of driving lessons to get ready for the dry run. Take the Practical Test: Schedule and take the practical driving test. If you fail, you can retake the test after a waiting duration. Make an application for the License: Once you pass the dry run, look for the actual driving license at the Prefecture. Get the License: Wait for the license to be released and sent to your address. For experienced chauffeurs with an international license, the procedure might be somewhat various:
Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your country has a mutual contract with France, which might streamline the procedure. Gather Documentation: Collect all required files, including your legitimate international license, a medical certificate, and a certified translation of your license if required. Request the License: Submit your application and pay the application charge at the Prefecture. Take Required Tests: If needed, take the theory and/or dry runs. Receive the License: Wait for the license to be released and sent to your address. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q1: How much does a driving license expense in France for a new learner?
The total cost for a new student can vary from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, including driving school costs, theory test costs, useful test costs, 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 fee, medical certificate, and any required 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 up to one year from the date of your arrival. However, it is recommended to transform your license to a French one to prevent any legal issues. Q4: Are there any discounts readily available for driving school fees?
Some driving schools use discounts for trainees, young drivers, or those who pay in advance. It is worth inquiring about these discounts when picking a driving school. Q5: What occurs if I fail the useful test?
If you stop working the useful test, you can retake it after a waiting period. Each retake will cost an additional EUR101.80. Q6: How long does it require to receive a French driving li
