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How to Get a French Driving License
If you're an expat and has recently relocated to France you may require a French driving license. To obtain one, you must pass a driving theory and practical test. A good way to do this is to go to an instructor at a driving school. They will do the paperwork for you and schedule the test.
Valid for 3 years
A French driving licence is valid for three years from the date of the issue. The French driving license is a pink, credit card-sized document that has the photo of the holder, their date and birthplace and driving privileges. It may also include a number of restrictions and conditions. Some of these restrictions include driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs and a minimum age requirement for driver's license.
The prefecture (or the area) issues the French driving license. cerfa permis de conduire must be renewed every 15 years, and are valid across all EU countries as well as Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein. Some special categories of license are valid for only five years, such as the ones for heavy vehicles and passenger transport vehicles. You can renew a standard French license in France or in your home country. You must pass a written and practical test to be eligible for the renewal.
You could be able to exchange your US driver's license to a French license without having to take any tests if an American. This program is only available to Americans who have lived in France more than one year and possess a carte de sejour. The process usually takes within one year, and you must have your passport or other official identification documents with you. The process can take anywhere from six to a year therefore it is best to start early.
Only those who are 18 years old and have not lost their driving privileges in the country of origin can get an French license. You must have third-party liability insurance and a medical certification, and you must complete at least 30 hours of training in an auto ecole (driving school). There are schools like these throughout Toulouse and they provide classes and practice tests in French. It's a great idea to take introductory French classes in addition to your French class if you want to pass the French exam.
You can check your points balance via the Ministry of Interior's website or through an email from the prefecture, referencing 48N/48M. Follow the directions on the website to recover any points that were withdrawn because of an infraction. A French driving licence is in the holder's name at birth. Women who are married can use their maiden name on their driving license in the event that they choose.
It contains 12 points
If you wish to drive in France, you need an French driving license. To get one, you must pass a driving theory test and an actual test. You also must pass a medical exam. The theory test is made up of 40 multiple-choice questions. The practical test is comprised of driving skills and road safety rules. You could also be required to take an examination in writing, based on your age. Then, you will need to have a minimum of 20 hours of driving with an instructor.
After passing the theory and the practical driving test, you'll receive your license in three months. The licence is valid for 15 years and has to be displayed whenever you are behind the wheel. The licence should also contain a photo and the date it was issued. If you lose points they are deducted from your driving licence, and when you lose 12 points, your driving licence is suspended for a period of at least six months.
You can attend a class to regain the points you lost on your license. These courses are called stages de recovery des points du permit. They are offered by centers that have been approved. They cost around EUR200 for a two-day time period. You can only recuperate up to four points each year. You may also be able to recover your points if you refrain from committing any further traffic offenses for two or three years.

After a year after one year in France the French cannot drive on your foreign driving licence unless you are a diplomat or student. Even if you've passed the French driving test, you will need to exchange your license for one in French one if you will reside in the country for more than one year.
It is crucial to be aware that driving laws are quite strict in France. For example the BAC limit is lower than in the United States, and police set up random sobriety checkpoints. Drivers must also wear headlights at night when driving and in emergency situations or construction zones. It is also required to wear them when it rains or snows. The rules differ by region, so it's crucial to know your local rules.
It can be exchanged for the French license
If you're an American citizen and possess an approved license issued by Connecticut, Illinois, Iowa Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey North Carolina or Wisconsin, you may drive legally in France for a year without having to take the French driving test. However, if you're involved in an accident while driving with this kind of license and are blamed for the crash your insurance company may reject your claim. To avoid this, you must switch your driver's license in exchange for a French one after you arrive in the country.
You can change your license by contact your local Prefecture de Police (or Mairie). Ask for the demande d'echange de permis de conduire form. The procedure differs from region to region. It is crucial to confirm with the sub-prefecture prior travel. You'll also require an French translation which can be provided by an embassy or a sworn interpreter.
The application should include an acknowledgement that you have been a resident of France for at least six months. A tax notice or French medical certificate can confirm this. You should also present proof of identity, such as a passport, and a photo of identification. The photos must conform to the format of French ID cards. This is different from American passport photos. The application is submitted to ANTS the agency that issues French drivers' licenses. The license could take several months to be issued.
After you've completed the exchange, you'll need to go through an initial period of probation before your French license becomes permanent. You'll also have to pass an "auto ecole" or ETG which is a test that is theoretical-practical. Those with disabilities or certain health conditions may have to take additional tests.
While you can study and prepare for the test on your own, it's recommended to enroll in a school that can prepare you in French and will take care of all the documents. Schools will even allow you some driving practice before your actual exam.
It is issued by ANTS
If you've recently moved to France and are planning to move there, a French driving license is necessary to possess. It's easy to exchange your driving license since France has reciprocal agreements with a majority of countries. You can apply online, however you'll need additional documents, like a valid passport and residence card, or another proof of identity.
You can also obtain a French driver's license by taking the behind-the-wheel exam and passing it. You can download your certificate of driving licence (CEPC) following the test. This number is required for ordering physical licenses.
Before you drive on French roads, be sure your license is up-to-date and that you've passed a medical examination. The ANTS website has a list of licensed doctors and hospitals. You can also schedule an appointment with your GP.
If you've passed the behind-the-wheel test, you can apply for your physical license on the ANTS site. Log into your ANTS Account and choose "Je voudrai signaler une erreur on my driving permit for less than six months." Fill out the necessary information and upload any supporting documents, and then submit your request.
Your application will take between 2 and 45 days to complete. In the meantime, you can drive on a temporary license issued by your city hall or prefecture. The cost of this permit is different based on region. You can also purchase a special driving insurance policy which covers you in the event of an accident.
To avoid any future issues To avoid future problems, it is recommended to learn how to drive at a school. The driving school will be able to provide you with a list of qualified teachers. Make sure you inquire about their prices and whether or not they have English-speaking instructors.
You can also request a French driving license from your local prefecture or Mairie. You'll need to show your current driving licence and proof of residency. Some sub-prefectures aren't able to allow license exchanges, so it's important to check beforehand. If you have to go to the prefecture office, make sure you check the deadline to submit your application.