The Three Greatest Moments In French Driving License Cost History

Armstrong Lund

Feb 23, 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 pricey procedure, especially for those who are not acquainted with the system. Whether you are a new homeowner, a foreigner seeking to convert an international license, or a French resident looking for to renew or replace a lost license, comprehending the numerous expenses involved is vital. This post offers a comprehensive breakdown of the expenses connected with the French driving license, in addition to some frequently asked concerns to help navigate the process.

Overview of the French Driving License

In France, the driving license (Permis de Conduire) is issued by the Prefecture and is needed to run a motor car legally. The procedure to get a French driving license differs depending on your scenario, such as whether you are a new student, an experienced driver, or an immigrant with an international license. The costs likewise vary based on these aspects.

Expenses for New Learners

For people who are new to driving, the process includes a number of actions, each with its own set of costs:

Learning to Drive

Driving School (Auto-école) Fees: The cost of driving lessons is the most significant expenditure. As of 2023, the average cost of a driving school package in France ranges from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, depending upon the region and the number of lessons consisted of. Some driving schools provide versatile bundles, 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. Nevertheless, if you prefer to study independently, you can purchase theory books or online resources. The cost of these materials generally ranges from EUR20 to EUR100.
Theory Test Fee: The charge for the theory test is EUR34.50. You can take the test multiple times, but each effort will incur a new charge.

Practical Driving Test

Practical Test Fee: The cost for the practical driving test is EUR101.80. Like the theory test, you can retake the dry run if you stop working, however each retake will require an additional charge.
Extra Practice: If you need more practice before the test, extra driving lessons can be costly. The average expense per lesson is around EUR35 to EUR45.

Issuance of the License

License Issuance Fee: After passing the dry run, you will need to request the real driving license. The issuance cost is EUR25.20.

Costs for Experienced Drivers with an International License

If you currently have a legitimate driving license from another country, the procedure of obtaining a French driving license can be more simple, 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 offer a medical certificate, which can cost between EUR30 and EUR50, depending upon the physician and the area.
Translation of Foreign License: If your foreign license is not in French, you will require to have it equated by a licensed translator. The expense of this service can range from EUR20 to EUR50.

Testing Requirements

Theory Test: If your foreign license is from a nation that has a reciprocal contract with France, you may be exempt from the theory test. Nevertheless, if you are from a country that does not have such an agreement, you will require to take the theory test, which costs EUR34.50.
Practical Test: In some cases, you might require to take a practical test as well. The cost for this test is EUR101.80.

License Issuance

Issuance Fee: Once you have actually completed the needed tests and supplied all essential paperwork, 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 require to renew or change it, the costs are normally lower:

Renewal

Renewal Fee: The renewal fee for a French driving license is EUR25.20. This charge covers the administrative costs and the production of the new license.
Medical Certificate: You will require to provide a medical certificate, which can cost between EUR30 and EUR50.

Replacement

Replacement Fee: If you require to replace a lost, taken, or harmed license, the replacement charge is EUR25.20.
Cops Report: If your license has actually been lost or taken, you may need to file a cops report, which can cost around EUR20.

Extra Costs to Consider

Driving School Insurance: Many driving schools require you to have insurance while you are discovering. The expense of this insurance can vary, but it usually ranges from EUR100 to EUR200 for a year.
Practice Car: If you pick to practice driving beyond driving school lessons, you will require to have a car that is effectively insured. The expense of car insurance coverage can be a significant extra cost.
Road Tax (Taxe Routière): While not directly related to acquiring a driving license, it deserves noting that you will require to pay road tax if you own a car in France. The quantity varies based on the type and age of the vehicle.

Steps to Obtain a French Driving License

For new learners, the procedure to get a French driving license generally includes the following steps:

Enroll in a Driving School: Choose a trustworthy 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 should pass this test to proceed to the useful test.
Total Driving Lessons: Take the required variety of driving lessons to prepare for the dry run.
Take the Practical Test: Schedule and take the useful driving test. If you stop working, you can retake the test after a waiting period.
Request the License: Once you pass the practical test, look for the actual driving license at the Prefecture.
Receive the License: Wait for the license to be issued and sent to your address.

For skilled motorists with an international license, the procedure might be a little various:

Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your nation has a reciprocal contract with France, which might streamline the process.
Gather Documentation: Collect all essential documents, including your legitimate international license, a medical certificate, and a licensed translation of your license if required.
Use for 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 out to your address.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

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

Q2: What is the cost of transforming 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 charge, 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 recommended to transform your license to a French one to prevent any legal issues.

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

Some driving schools offer discount rates for trainees, young chauffeurs, or those who pay beforehand. It is worth inquiring about these discount rates when picking a driving school.

Q5: What happens if I stop working the practical test?

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

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

The processing time for the issuance of a French driving license can differ, 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 provisionary license in France. You must await the real license to be provided before driving.

Q8: Is it compulsory to take driving lessons from a professional driving school?

Yes, it is compulsory to take driving lessons from a professional driving school in France. permis de conduire provisoire français -teaching is not enabled.

Tips for Saving Money

Pick a Driving School Wisely: Research and compare driving schools in your location to discover the one that provides the very best value for money. Some schools may offer discounts or special bundles.
Research study Independently: While the majority of driving schools consist of the theory course in their bundles, studying separately can conserve you some money on theory materials.
Practice with Friends or Family: If you have pals or family who are currently accredited chauffeurs, they can help you practice driving beyond driving school lessons, potentially lowering the variety of lessons you need.
Take the Theory Test Early: Taking the theory test early can help you focus on the useful aspects of driving, which might lower the variety of driving lessons you require.
Retake Tests Quickly: If you stop working a test, retake it as quickly as possible to avoid paying for additional lessons or tests.

Obtaining a French driving license can be an expensive venture, but it is a needed action for anyone who desires to drive legally in France. By comprehending the various costs and steps included, you can better prepare for the procedure and possibly save money along the method. Whether you are a new student or an experienced driver, the key is to select the ideal driving school, research study vigilantly, and complete the needed tests effectively. With the right method, you can browse the system and delight in the flexibility of driving in France.

This guide provides a detailed summary of the costs connected with getting a French driving license, from the initial knowing phase to the last issuance of the license. By following these actions and tips, you can make the procedure as smooth and cost-efficient as possible.