10 Pinterest Accounts To Follow French Driving License Cost

Bryant Gustafsson

Feb 27, 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 in some cases expensive process, especially for those who are not acquainted with the system. Whether you are a new citizen, an immigrant wanting to convert an international license, or a French resident looking for to renew or replace a lost license, comprehending the different expenses included is necessary. This article offers an in-depth breakdown of the costs related to the French driving license, together with some regularly asked concerns to assist navigate the procedure.

Summary of the French Driving License

In France, the driving license (Permis de Conduire) is issued by the Prefecture and is required to operate an automobile legally. The process to acquire a French driving license differs depending upon your scenario, such as whether you are a new learner, an experienced driver, or a foreigner with an international license. The expenses also vary based upon these aspects.

Costs for New Learners

For people who are new to driving, the process includes numerous steps, each with its own set of costs:

Learning to Drive

Driving School (Auto-école) Fees: The expense of driving lessons is the most considerable expense. Since 2023, the typical 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 use flexible packages, allowing you to pay as you go or choose a fixed variety of lessons.
Theory Course: Most driving schools include a theory course in their plans. Nevertheless, if acheter un permis de conduire prefer to study individually, you can purchase theory books or online resources. The expense of these products typically ranges from EUR20 to EUR100.
Theory Test Fee: The fee for the theory test is EUR34.50. You can take the test several times, but each attempt will sustain a new charge.

Practical Driving Test

Dry Run Fee: The fee for the useful driving test is EUR101.80. Like the theory test, you can retake the practical test if you stop working, but each retake will need an additional fee.
Extra Practice: If you require more practice before the test, additional driving lessons can be pricey. The typical cost per lesson is around EUR35 to EUR45.

Issuance of the License

License Issuance Fee: After passing the dry run, you will require to get the actual 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 nation, the procedure of obtaining a French driving license can be more uncomplicated, however it still involves some costs:

Application Process

Application Fee: The application fee for a French driving license for foreigners with a valid international license is EUR65.90.
Medical Certificate: You will require to supply a medical certificate, which can cost in between EUR30 and EUR50, depending on 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 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 mutual contract with France, you might be exempt from the theory test. Nevertheless, if you are from a nation that does not have such an agreement, you will need to take the theory test, which costs EUR34.50.
Dry run: In some cases, you might need to take a dry run also. The cost for this test is EUR101.80.

License Issuance

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

Costs for Renewal or Replacement

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

Renewal

Renewal Fee: The renewal charge for a French driving license is EUR25.20. This fee 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 require to change a lost, taken, or harmed license, the replacement cost is EUR25.20.
Authorities Report: If your license has been lost or stolen, you may require to file a cops report, which can cost around EUR20.

Extra Costs to Consider

Driving School Insurance: Many driving schools need you to have insurance while you are finding out. The expense of this insurance can vary, however it usually ranges from EUR100 to EUR200 for a year.
Practice Car: If you select to practice driving outside of driving school lessons, you will require to have a car that is properly guaranteed. The cost of car insurance coverage can be a considerable additional expense.
Road Tax (Taxe Routière): While not directly associated to obtaining a driving license, it deserves noting 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 lorry.

Steps to Obtain a French Driving License

For new learners, the process to obtain a French driving license generally includes the following actions:

Enroll in a Driving School: Choose a reliable driving school (auto-école) and register 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 useful test.
Complete Driving Lessons: Take the required number of driving lessons to prepare for the dry run.
Take the Practical Test: Schedule and take the useful driving test. If you fail, you can retake the test after a waiting duration.
Get the License: Once you pass the dry run, request the real driving license at the Prefecture.
Get the License: Wait for the license to be issued and sent to your address.

For experienced chauffeurs with an international license, the process may be somewhat different:

Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your nation has a reciprocal arrangement with France, which might simplify the process.
Gather Documentation: Collect all required documents, including your valid international license, a medical certificate, and a licensed translation of your license if needed.
Make an application for the License: Submit your application and pay the application cost at the Prefecture.
Take Required Tests: If required, take the theory and/or dry runs.
Get the License: Wait for the license to be provided and sent out to your address.

Often Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

The total expense for a new learner can range from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, including driving school charges, theory test costs, dry run fees, and the issuance charge.

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

The expense of transforming an international license can range from EUR120 to EUR200, consisting of the application fee, 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 up to one year from the date of your arrival. However, it is suggested to convert your license to a French one to avoid any legal issues.

Q4: Are there any discounts readily available for driving school fees?

Some driving schools provide discount rates for trainees, young motorists, or those who pay beforehand. It is worth asking about these discount rates when selecting a driving school.

Q5: What happens if I fail the practical test?

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

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

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 must wait on the real license to be issued before driving.

Q8: Is it compulsory to take driving lessons from an expert driving school?

Yes, it is necessary to take driving lessons from an expert driving school in France. Self-teaching is not allowed.

Tips for Saving Money

Choose a Driving School Wisely: Research and compare driving schools in your location to find the one that provides the finest value for cash. Some schools may offer discount rates or special plans.
Research study Independently: While the majority of driving schools consist of the theory course in their packages, studying individually can conserve you some cash on theory materials.
Practice with Friends or Family: If you have friends or household who are currently accredited drivers, they can help you practice driving outside of driving school lessons, potentially reducing the variety of lessons you need.
Take the Theory Test Early: Taking the theory test early can assist you concentrate on the practical elements of driving, which might minimize the number of driving lessons you require.
Retake Tests Quickly: If you stop working a test, retake it as soon as possible to prevent paying for extra lessons or tests.

Acquiring a French driving license can be an expensive undertaking, but it is a needed action for anybody who wants to drive legally in France. By understanding the different expenses and actions involved, you can better prepare for the procedure and possibly conserve money along the way. Whether you are a new learner or a knowledgeable driver, the key is to pick the right driving school, study diligently, and complete the required tests efficiently. With the best approach, you can navigate the system and delight in the liberty of driving in France.

This guide supplies a detailed summary of the expenses related to getting a French driving license, from the preliminary knowing phase to the final issuance of the license. By following these steps and ideas, you can make the procedure as smooth and affordable as possible.