From Around The Web: 20 Fabulous Infographics About French Driving License Cost

Hinson Bullard

Feb 22, 2025 • 7 min read

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

Acquiring a driving license in France can be a complex and sometimes expensive process, especially for those who are not acquainted with the system. Whether you are a new citizen, a foreigner aiming to convert an international license, or a French resident looking for to restore or replace a lost license, understanding the numerous expenses included is necessary. This article offers a detailed breakdown of the expenses related to the French driving license, in addition to some frequently asked questions to help browse 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 run a motor automobile legally. The process to get a French driving license differs depending on your circumstance, such as whether you are a new student, a knowledgeable driver, or an immigrant with an international license. The expenses likewise vary based on these aspects.

Costs for New Learners

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

Learning to Drive

Driving School (Auto-école) Fees: The expense of driving lessons is the most substantial cost. As of 2023, the average cost of a driving school package in France ranges from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, depending on the area and the variety of lessons consisted of. Some driving schools offer versatile plans, permitting you to pay as you go or choose a fixed variety of lessons.
Theory Course: Most driving schools consist of a theory course in their packages. However, if you choose to study independently, you can purchase theory books or online resources. The expense of these products 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, but each effort will sustain a new fee.

Practical Driving Test

Practical Test Fee: The fee for the practical driving test is EUR101.80. Like the theory test, you can retake the useful test if you fail, however each retake will need an extra cost.
Additional Practice: If you need more practice before the test, extra driving lessons can be pricey. The average cost per lesson is around EUR35 to EUR45.

Issuance of the License

License Issuance Fee: After passing the useful test, you will require to request the real driving license. The issuance cost is EUR25.20.

Expenses for Experienced Drivers with an International License

If you currently have a valid driving license from another nation, the procedure of obtaining a French driving license can be more straightforward, however it still involves some expenses:

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 require to offer a medical certificate, which can cost in between EUR30 and EUR50, depending on the doctor and the region.
Translation of Foreign License: If your foreign license is not in French, you will need to have it equated by a qualified translator. The expense 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 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 require to take the theory test, which costs EUR34.50.
Practical Test: In some cases, you might require to take a dry run as well. The fee for this test is EUR101.80.

License Issuance

Issuance Fee: Once you have finished the needed tests and offered all essential paperwork, the issuance cost for the French driving license is EUR25.20.

Costs for Renewal or Replacement

If you currently have a French driving license and need to restore or change it, the costs are usually lower:

Renewal

Renewal Fee: The renewal charge for a French driving license is EUR25.20. This charge covers the administrative expenses 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 need to change a lost, taken, or harmed license, the replacement charge is EUR25.20.
Police Report: If your license has actually been lost or stolen, you might require to submit an authorities report, which can cost around EUR20.

Additional Costs to Consider

Driving School Insurance: Many driving schools require you to have insurance coverage while you are finding out. The expense of this insurance coverage can vary, however it usually varies from EUR100 to EUR200 for a year.
Practice Car: If you select to practice driving beyond driving school lessons, you will require to have a car that is properly insured. The cost of car insurance coverage can be a considerable additional expenditure.
Roadway Tax (Taxe Routière): While not directly associated to getting a driving license, it deserves keeping in mind that you will require to pay road tax if you own a car in France. The quantity differs based on the type and age of the car.

Steps to Obtain a French Driving License

For new learners, the process to acquire a French driving license usually includes the following actions:

Enroll in a Driving School: Choose a trusted driving school (auto-école) and enlist in a driving course.
Complete the Theory Course: Attend the theory classes and prepare for the theory test.
Take the Theory Test: Schedule and take the theory test at the Prefecture. You should pass this test to continue to the practical test.
Complete Driving Lessons: Take the necessary number of driving lessons to get ready for the useful test.
Take the Practical Test: Schedule and take the useful driving test. If you fail, you can retake the test after a waiting period.
Obtain the License: Once you pass the dry run, look for the real driving license at the Prefecture.
Get the License: Wait for the license to be issued and sent to your address.

For skilled chauffeurs with an international license, the procedure may be slightly various:

Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your nation has a reciprocal agreement with France, which may simplify the procedure.
Gather Documentation: Collect all required files, including your legitimate international license, a medical certificate, and a licensed translation of your license if needed.
Request the License: Submit your application and pay the application charge at the Prefecture.
Take Required Tests: If needed, take the theory and/or useful tests.
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 cost in France for a new student?

The overall expense for a new learner can range from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, including driving school costs, theory test fees, useful test charges, and the issuance cost.

Q2: What is the cost of converting an international driving license to a French driving license?

The expense of converting an international license can range from EUR120 to EUR200, including the application cost, medical certificate, and any needed 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 as much as one year from the date of your arrival. However, it is a good idea to convert your license to a French one to avoid any legal issues.

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

Some driving schools offer discounts for trainees, young motorists, or those who pay in advance. It deserves inquiring about these discounts when selecting a driving school.

Q5: What takes place if I stop working the practical test?

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

Q6: How long does it take to receive a French driving license after passing the dry run?

The processing time for the issuance of a French driving license can differ, but it generally takes around 3 to 6 weeks.

Q7: Can I drive with a provisional license while awaiting my French driving license?

No, you can not drive with a provisionary license in France. acheter un permis de conduire légal need to wait for the real license to be provided before driving.

Q8: Is it necessary 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

Choose a Driving School Wisely: Research and compare driving schools in your location to discover the one that offers the best worth for cash. Some schools might use discounts or unique plans.
Study Independently: While the majority of driving schools include the theory course in their plans, studying separately can save you some money on theory products.
Practice with Friends or Family: If you have good friends or household who are currently accredited motorists, they can assist you practice driving outside of driving school lessons, potentially lowering the number of lessons you need.
Take the Theory Test Early: Taking the theory test early can help you concentrate on the useful elements of driving, which might lower the variety of driving lessons you need.
Retake Tests Quickly: If you stop working a test, retake it as soon as possible to avoid spending for extra lessons or exams.

Obtaining a French driving license can be an expensive undertaking, but it is an essential step for anybody who wants to drive legally in France. By comprehending the different expenses and actions involved, you can better prepare for the process and potentially conserve cash along the way. Whether you are a new learner or a skilled driver, the secret is to pick the right driving school, research study vigilantly, and complete the needed tests effectively. With the right method, you can navigate the system and enjoy the freedom of driving in France.

This guide supplies an extensive introduction of the expenses associated with acquiring a French driving license, from the initial learning stage to the final issuance of the license. By following these steps and tips, you can make the process as smooth and cost-efficient as possible.