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

Obtaining a driving license in France can be a complex and sometimes costly process, specifically for those who are not acquainted with the system. Whether où acheter un permis de conduire français are a new homeowner, a foreigner aiming to transform an international license, or a French resident looking for to renew or change a lost license, understanding the different costs included is necessary. This short article provides a detailed breakdown of the expenditures related to the French driving license, along with some frequently asked questions to assist navigate the procedure.

Introduction of the French Driving License

In France, the driving license (Permis de Conduire) is released by the Prefecture and is needed to run an automobile legally. The process to get a French driving license varies depending upon your scenario, such as whether you are a new student, a knowledgeable driver, or a foreigner with an international license. The costs likewise differ based upon these elements.

Costs for New Learners

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

  1. Learning to Drive

    • Driving School (Auto-école) Fees: The cost of driving lessons is the most significant expenditure. As of 2023, the typical expense of a driving school bundle in France varies from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, depending on the area and the variety of lessons included. Some driving schools offer flexible packages, allowing you to pay as you go or pick a fixed number of lessons.
    • Theory Course: Most driving schools include a theory course in their plans. Nevertheless, if you choose to study separately, you can purchase theory books or online resources. The cost of these products typically varies from EUR20 to EUR100.
    • Theory Test Fee: The cost for the theory test is EUR34.50. You can take the test numerous times, however each attempt will incur a new charge.
  2. Practical Driving Test

    • Dry Run Fee: The charge 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 fee.
    • Extra Practice: If you require more practice before the test, additional driving lessons can be pricey. permis de conduire français pas cher per lesson is around EUR35 to EUR45.
  3. Issuance of the License

    • License Issuance Fee: After passing the dry run, you will require to look for the actual driving license. The issuance cost is EUR25.20.

Costs for Experienced Drivers with an International License

If you currently have a valid driving license from another country, the process of acquiring a French driving license can be more uncomplicated, however it still includes some expenses:

  1. 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 provide 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 certified translator. The expense of this service can range from EUR20 to EUR50.
  2. Testing Requirements

    • Theory Test: If your foreign license is from a nation that has a reciprocal contract with France, you might be exempt from the theory test. However, if you are from a nation that does not have such a contract, you will require to take the theory test, which costs EUR34.50.
    • Dry run: In some cases, you might need to take a useful test also. The fee for this test is EUR101.80.
  3. License Issuance

    • Issuance Fee: Once you have completed the needed tests and supplied all necessary documentation, the issuance charge 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 costs are usually lower:

  1. Renewal

    • Renewal Fee: The renewal cost 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.
  2. Replacement

    • Replacement Fee: If you need to replace a lost, taken, or damaged license, the replacement charge is EUR25.20.
    • Authorities Report: If your license has been lost or taken, you might need to file a police report, which can cost around EUR20.

Additional Costs to Consider

  1. Driving School Insurance: Many driving schools require you to have insurance while you are discovering. The cost of this insurance coverage can differ, however it typically varies from EUR100 to EUR200 for a year.
  2. Practice Car: If you select to practice driving beyond driving school lessons, you will require to have a car that is effectively guaranteed. The cost of car insurance coverage can be a considerable additional expenditure.
  3. Road Tax (Taxe Routière): While not directly associated to getting a driving license, it is worth noting that you will need to pay roadway tax if you own a car in France. The quantity varies based on the type and age of the lorry.

Actions to Obtain a French Driving License

For new students, the process to obtain a French driving license normally includes the following actions:

  1. Enroll in a Driving School: Choose a reliable driving school (auto-école) and enroll in a driving course.
  2. Total the Theory Course: Attend the theory classes and prepare for the theory test.
  3. Take the Theory Test: Schedule and take the theory test at the Prefecture. You need to pass this test to continue to the practical test.
  4. Total Driving Lessons: Take the required number of driving lessons to prepare for the dry run.
  5. Take the Practical Test: Schedule and take the useful driving test. If you stop working, you can retake the test after a waiting period.
  6. Make an application for the License: Once you pass the dry run, obtain the real driving license at the Prefecture.
  7. Get the License: Wait for the license to be issued and sent to your address.

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

  1. Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your country has a mutual contract with France, which may simplify the procedure.
  2. Gather Documentation: Collect all essential files, including your valid international license, a medical certificate, and a certified translation of your license if required.
  3. Obtain the License: Submit your application and pay the application cost at the Prefecture.
  4. Take Required Tests: If needed, take the theory and/or dry runs.
  5. Receive the License: Wait for the license to be provided and sent out to your address.

Regularly Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

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

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 cost, medical certificate, and any required 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. Nevertheless, it is suggested to convert your license to a French one to avoid any legal issues.

Q4: Are there any discount rates readily available for driving school costs?

  • Some driving schools offer discount rates for students, young chauffeurs, or those who pay in advance. It deserves asking about these discount rates when choosing a driving school.

Q5: What occurs if I stop working the dry run?

  • If you fail the useful test, you can retake it after a waiting duration. Each retake will cost an additional EUR101.80.

Q6: How long does it take to get a French driving license after passing the useful test?

  • The processing time for the issuance of a French driving license can vary, however it usually 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 provisionary license in France. You must wait on the actual license to be released before driving.

Q8: Is it necessary to take driving lessons from a professional 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

  1. Pick 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 may provide discounts or unique bundles.
  2. Research study Independently: While many driving schools consist of the theory course in their plans, studying independently can save you some money on theory materials.
  3. Practice with Friends or Family: If you have buddies or family who are currently licensed motorists, they can assist you practice driving beyond driving school lessons, potentially lowering the variety of lessons you need.
  4. Take the Theory Test Early: Taking the theory test early can assist you concentrate on the practical elements of driving, which may reduce the variety of driving lessons you need.
  5. Retake Tests Quickly: If you fail a test, retake it as quickly as possible to prevent paying for additional lessons or examinations.

Obtaining a French driving license can be a costly endeavor, but it is a necessary action for anybody who wishes to drive legally in France. By comprehending the different costs and steps involved, you can better get ready for the process and potentially conserve money along the way. Whether you are a new learner or a knowledgeable driver, the key is to select the best driving school, study diligently, and finish the needed tests effectively. With the ideal approach, you can navigate the system and delight in the liberty of driving in France.


This guide provides a detailed overview of the costs associated with getting a French driving license, from the initial knowing phase to the final issuance of the license. By following these steps and pointers, you can make the procedure as smooth and cost-efficient as possible.



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