The Ultimate Glossary For Terms Related To French Driving License Cost

Whitfield Melton

Feb 20, 2025 • 7 min read

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

Obtaining a driving license in France can be a complex and in some cases pricey process, specifically for those who are not knowledgeable about the system. Whether you are a new citizen, an immigrant looking to convert an international license, or a French person seeking to renew or change a lost license, comprehending the different costs involved is essential. This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the costs related to the French driving license, together with some often asked concerns to assist navigate the procedure.

Introduction 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 process to acquire a French driving license differs depending on your scenario, such as whether you are a new learner, a skilled driver, or a foreigner with an international license. The expenses likewise differ based upon these aspects.

Costs for New Learners

For individuals who are new to driving, the procedure includes several actions, each with its own set of costs:

Learning to Drive

Driving School (Auto-école) Fees: The expense of driving lessons is the most considerable cost. 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 variety of lessons included. Some driving schools offer flexible plans, allowing you to pay as you go or pick a set number of lessons.
Theory Course: Most driving schools consist of a theory course in their plans. Nevertheless, if you prefer to study separately, you can purchase theory books or online resources. The cost of these products normally ranges from EUR20 to EUR100.
Theory Test Fee: The fee for the theory test is EUR34.50. You can take the test multiple times, but each effort will incur a new cost.

Practical Driving Test

Dry Run Fee: The cost 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 require an extra cost.
Extra Practice: If you need more practice before the test, additional driving lessons can be expensive. The average cost per lesson is around EUR35 to EUR45.

Issuance of the License

License Issuance Fee: After passing the dry run, you will require to obtain 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 process of obtaining a French driving license can be more straightforward, but it still involves some expenses:

Application Process

Application Fee: The application cost for a French driving license for foreigners with a valid international license is EUR65.90.
Medical Certificate: You will need to offer a medical certificate, which can cost in between EUR30 and EUR50, depending on the medical professional and the area.
Translation of Foreign License: If your foreign license is not in French, you will need to have it translated by a qualified translator. The cost of this service can vary from EUR20 to EUR50.

Testing Requirements

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

License Issuance

Issuance Fee: Once you have completed the needed tests and provided all needed paperwork, the issuance cost for the French driving license is EUR25.20.

Expenses for Renewal or Replacement

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

Renewal

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

Replacement

Replacement Fee: If you require to change a lost, stolen, or damaged license, the replacement cost is EUR25.20.
Police Report: If your license has been lost or stolen, you might require to submit an authorities report, which can cost around EUR20.

Extra Costs to Consider

Driving School Insurance: Many driving schools require you to have insurance coverage while you are learning. The cost of this insurance coverage can differ, however it generally varies from EUR100 to EUR200 for a year.
Practice Car: If you pick to practice driving beyond driving school lessons, you will need to have a car that is appropriately guaranteed. The expense of car insurance can be a substantial additional cost.
Roadway Tax (Taxe Routière): While not directly associated to obtaining a driving license, it is worth keeping in mind that you will require to pay road tax if you own a car in France. acheter un permis de conduire légal en ligne differs 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 usually involves the following actions:

Enroll in a Driving School: Choose a reputable driving school (auto-école) and enlist in a driving course.
Total 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 dry run.
Complete Driving Lessons: Take the necessary number of driving lessons to prepare for the useful test.
Take the Practical Test: Schedule and take the useful driving test. If you fail, you can retake the test after a waiting period.
Obtain the License: Once you pass the useful test, make an application for the actual driving license at the Prefecture.
Get the License: Wait for the license to be issued and sent out to your address.

For experienced motorists with an international license, the process may be a little various:

Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your country has a mutual contract with France, which may simplify the procedure.
Gather Documentation: Collect all necessary documents, including your legitimate international license, a medical certificate, and a licensed translation of your license if required.
Request the License: Submit your application and pay the application fee 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 to your address.

Often Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

The total cost for a new student can vary from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, consisting of driving school fees, theory test fees, dry run costs, and the issuance cost.

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

The expense of transforming an international license can vary from EUR120 to EUR200, including 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 a good idea to convert your license to a French one to prevent any legal concerns.

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

Some driving schools offer discount rates for trainees, young motorists, or those who pay in advance. acheter un permis de conduire sans poser de questions is worth asking about these discount rates when picking a driving school.

Q5: What takes place if I stop working the dry run?

If you fail 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 dry run?

The processing time for the issuance of a French driving license can differ, but it generally takes around 3 to 6 weeks.

Q7: Can I drive with a provisional license while awaiting my French driving license?

No, you can not drive with a provisionary license in France. You need to wait for the real license to be provided before driving.

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

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

Tips for Saving Money

Pick a Driving School Wisely: Research and compare driving schools in your area to discover the one that uses the very best value for money. Some schools might provide discount rates or unique plans.
Study Independently: While the majority of driving schools include the theory course in their plans, studying independently can save you some money on theory materials.
Practice with Friends or Family: If you have good friends or family who are currently certified drivers, they can help you practice driving outside of driving school lessons, potentially minimizing the number of lessons you require.
Take the Theory Test Early: Taking the theory test early can help you focus on the practical elements of driving, which may lower the variety of driving lessons you need.
Retake Tests Quickly: If you fail a test, retake it as quickly as possible to avoid paying for extra lessons or tests.

Obtaining a French driving license can be a costly undertaking, however it is a required action for anybody who wishes to drive legally in France. By comprehending the various costs and actions included, you can much better get ready for the process and possibly save money along the way. Whether you are a new learner or a knowledgeable driver, the key is to select the ideal driving school, research study vigilantly, and complete the required tests efficiently. With the ideal approach, you can navigate the system and enjoy the freedom of driving in France.

This guide supplies a thorough overview of the costs connected with acquiring a French driving license, from the preliminary learning phase to the final issuance of the license. By following these actions and tips, you can make the procedure as smooth and economical as possible.