If you’re a foreigner, getting a driver’s license in France doesn’t have to be complicated. Once you understand the steps, the process is clear and manageable.
The minimum age to apply for a French driving license (permis de conduire) is 18 years old. Whether you’re a new resident, an international student, or exchanging your foreign license for a French one, meeting a few requirements will get you on the road in no time.
Driving laws vary across Europe, but France has a straightforward system for foreigners to legally operate motor vehicles.
At Remitly, we know how important driving is for daily life and building your independence in a new place. That’s why we’re here to guide you through the process of obtaining your French driving license step by step.
Table of contents
Can foreigners drive in France?
Driving in France as a foreigner depends on your residency status and the type of driver’s license you hold. Here’s everything you need to know:
Short-term visitors
If you’re visiting France on vacation or a short stay for three months or less, you can drive using your valid foreign license, as long as it’s either in French or accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Long-term, non-EU residents
As a citizen of a country outside the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA), you can drive with a foreign license for up to one year after obtaining your residence permit (carte de séjour). After that time, exchange your license or apply for a French one.
EU/EEA residents
If your license was issued by an EU/EEA country, it remains valid indefinitely in France—provided you comply with French driving standards.
UK licenses post-Brexit
If you’re a U.K. citizen living in France, exchange your U.K. license within one year of gaining residency in France.
Tip: To find out if you’re eligible to exchange your license, visit the official French government website at service-public.fr for up-to-date information.
How can you get a French driver’s license?
These are the two main ways to obtain a French driver’s license:
- Exchange your foreign license: If you’re from a country with a reciprocity agreement with France, such as the USA, Canada, or the U.K., you may exchange your license without taking the French driving test. Use this simulator to check if your license is exchangeable.
- Apply for a French driver’s license: If you’re a first-time driver or your home country doesn’t have a license exchange agreement, passing both the theory and practical driving tests is essential.
What documents will you need?
Whether exchanging your license or applying for one as a first-time driver, you’ll need the following:
- Proof of identity, such as your passport or carte de séjour.
- Proof of residence. You can submit a utility bill, lease agreement, or title (titre).
- Your current foreign license, translated into French by a certified translator.
- A medical certificate from a licensed doctor in France confirming you’re fit to drive.
- Two recent passport-sized photos.
- Proof of address in France.
For license exchanges, you’ll also need:
- A photocopy of your original driver’s license.
- Certification that your foreign license is valid.
Always carry original documents when submitting your application, as officials don’t often accept photocopies alone.
Taking the theory exam
The driving theory exam tests your understanding of the French Highway Code (Code de la Route), including speed limits, road signs and safety practices.
Locals call this test “the Code”. It consists of 40 multiple-choice questions, and you’ll need a minimum score of 35/40 to pass. You’ll have approximately 30 minutes to complete the test, which is available in English for non-French speakers.
Follow these steps to book your theory exam:
- Download the Driving Instructions learning booklet from the French government website and keep it in your car at all times.
- Schedule a date, place, and time for your test online.
- Pay the €30 EUR theory test fee.
- Check your results online within 48 hours.
You can take this test as many times as you need until you pass, but you’ll pay the test fee every time. These tips will help you prepare for the exam:
- Consider enrolling in a driving school (auto-école) for driving lessons and practice exams that follow the official syllabus.
- Use apps like Codes Rousseau or Code de la Route for convenient, on-the-go learning resources.
Do you need driving lessons?
For new drivers in France, completing at least 20 hours of driving lessons with a certified auto-école is mandatory. Driving schools usually charge €55 EUR for every hour.
During lessons, you can expect to:
- Learn maneuvers such as parallel parking, three-point turns, and emergency stops.
- Navigate roundabouts, rural roads, and driving in big cities like Paris.
- Understand the point system to maintain a clean driving record in France.
- Recognize and respond to road signs, traffic signals, and lane markings.
Tip: Book your lessons as early as possible, as driving schools in large cities often have waiting lists.
Passing the practical exam
The practical test (la conduite) is a chance to demonstrate everything you’ve learned behind the wheel. It typically lasts about 30 minutes and tests you on:
- Safe vehicle handling
- Parking maneuvers
- Adherence to speed limits and traffic laws
Scheduling the practical exam is easy; here’s what to do:
- Book the test and pay a €30 EUR fee. Luckily, your driving school will do this on your behalf. But if you opt to go for it yourself, book the practical exam online.
- Choose the date, examination center, and time slot for the test with your driving instructor.
- Check your results online after 48 hours.
If you don’t pass the first time, don’t worry! You can retake the exam, and extra lessons may help you feel fully prepared.
How can you submit your application?
Once you’ve passed your exams, it’s time to submit your application for your driver’s license through the ANTS website or at your local prefecture. Processing times can vary, but it usually takes a few weeks. You can also request the production of your French driving license online.
Tip: Keep any correspondence with the French government—this will be helpful for your records and peace of mind.
Costs of getting a driver’s license in France
Getting your French driving license carries several expenses. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay:
- Driving lessons: €1,200–€2,000 EUR
- Theory test: Around €30
- Practical exam: Approximately €30
- Translation services: €20–€50 for translating your foreign license
- Medical certificate: Around €25, made more affordable with health insurance
For more tips on budgeting as a new resident, be sure to read our guide on settling in France.
Additional resources
Obtaining a French driving license can be a detailed process. But with the right resources, you’ll be well prepared. Check out the following links to help guide you through each step:
- ANTS Website: The official site for submitting your driver’s license application.
- Code de la Route App: A useful app for practicing the theory exam and brushing up on French road rules.
- Find a driving school: Locate a certified driving school near you to start your lessons.
Ready to make your move? Our guide on relocating to France provides practical tips to help you feel at home. Here are other helpful Remitly guides to make the most of your time in France:
- Explore our tips and resources for job hunting and building your career in France.
- Learn about the French healthcare system and how to secure insurance.
- Discover what it’s like to live in Nantes and top tips for making it your home.
FAQs
The process usually takes between three to six months, depending on your individual situation and scheduling availability.
Yes—you can use your American driver’s license temporarily with an International Driving Permit (IDP). However, long-term residents will need to exchange it within the first year.
The total cost to obtain a French driving license typically ranges from €1,300–€2,000 EUR. This includes lessons, tests, and administrative fees.
If you’re staying temporarily and your license isn’t in French, you’ll need an IDP along with your foreign license to drive legally in France.
You’ll need proof of identity, proof of residence, and, if applicable, a translated version of your foreign driver’s license.
