20 Myths About French Driving License Cost: Busted

Sheppard Cameron

Feb 24, 2025 • 7 min read

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

Getting a driving license in France can be a complex and sometimes pricey procedure, particularly for those who are not knowledgeable about the system. Whether you are a new resident, a foreigner seeking to transform an international license, or a French person seeking to renew or replace a lost license, understanding the numerous costs involved is necessary. This post supplies a detailed breakdown of the costs related to the French driving license, in addition to 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 required to run an automobile legally. The procedure to get a French driving license differs depending on your circumstance, such as whether you are a new student, a skilled driver, or an immigrant with an international license. The costs likewise differ based on these aspects.

Expenses for New Learners

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

Learning to Drive

Driving School (Auto-école) Fees: The cost of driving lessons is the most considerable expense. Since 2023, the typical cost of a driving school plan in France varies from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, depending on the region and the number of lessons consisted of. Some driving schools provide versatile plans, allowing you to pay as you go or pick a fixed variety of lessons.
Theory Course: Most driving schools include a theory course in their packages. Nevertheless, if you choose to study independently, you can buy 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 numerous times, but each effort will incur a new cost.

Practical Driving Test

Dry Run Fee: The fee for the practical driving test is EUR101.80. Like the theory test, you can retake the dry run if you fail, however each retake will need an extra cost.
Additional Practice: If you need more practice before the test, additional driving lessons can be expensive. The typical cost per lesson is around EUR35 to EUR45.

Issuance of the License

License Issuance Fee: After passing the practical test, you will need to obtain the real driving license. The issuance fee is EUR25.20.

Costs for Experienced Drivers with an International License

If you already 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 fee for a French driving license for foreigners with a legitimate international license is EUR65.90.
Medical Certificate: You will need to supply a medical certificate, which can cost between EUR30 and EUR50, depending on the doctor and the region.
Translation of Foreign License: If your foreign license is not in French, you will need to have it equated by a licensed translator. The cost of this service can range from EUR20 to EUR50.

Testing Requirements

Theory Test: If your foreign license is from a country that has a reciprocal agreement with France, you may be exempt from the theory test. However, if acheter un permis de conduire français Licence France Xpress are from a country that does not have such an arrangement, you will require to take the theory test, which costs EUR34.50.
Practical Test: In some cases, you may need to take a dry run too. The fee for this test is EUR101.80.

License Issuance

Issuance Fee: Once you have completed the required tests and supplied all needed 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 need to renew or change it, the costs are usually lower:

Renewal

Renewal Fee: The renewal cost 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 between EUR30 and EUR50.

Replacement

Replacement Fee: If you need to replace a lost, taken, or damaged license, the replacement fee is EUR25.20.
Police Report: If your license has actually been lost or taken, you may need to submit an authorities report, which can cost around EUR20.

Additional Costs to Consider

Driving School Insurance: Many driving schools need you to have insurance while you are learning. The cost of this insurance coverage can vary, however it normally ranges from EUR100 to EUR200 for a year.
Practice Car: If you choose to practice driving beyond driving school lessons, you will require to have a car that is properly insured. The cost of car insurance coverage can be a significant extra expenditure.
Roadway Tax (Taxe Routière): While not straight related to acquiring a driving license, it is worth keeping in mind that you will require to pay roadway tax if you own a car in France. The quantity varies based upon the type and age of the lorry.

Steps to Obtain a French Driving License

For new learners, the procedure to acquire a French driving license generally involves the following actions:

Enroll in a Driving School: Choose a credible driving school (auto-école) and enroll 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 proceed to the useful test.
Complete Driving Lessons: Take the required variety of driving lessons to get ready 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 useful test, make an application for the actual driving license at the Prefecture.
Get the License: Wait for the license to be released and sent to your address.

For skilled chauffeurs with an international license, the process might be slightly various:

Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your country has a reciprocal contract with France, which may streamline the process.
Gather Documentation: Collect all required files, including your valid international license, a medical certificate, and a licensed translation of your license if required.
Apply for the License: Submit your application and pay the application charge at the Prefecture.
Take Required Tests: If needed, take the theory and/or dry runs.
Get the License: Wait for the license to be provided and sent to your address.

Regularly Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

The total cost for a new learner can vary from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, consisting of driving school fees, theory test costs, useful test 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, including the application cost, medical certificate, and any needed translation costs.

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 a good idea to convert your license to a French one to avoid any legal concerns.

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

Some driving schools offer discounts for students, young drivers, or those who pay in advance. It is worth asking about these discount rates when choosing a driving school.

Q5: What occurs 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 additional EUR101.80.

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

The processing time for the issuance of a French driving license can differ, however it typically 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 provisional license in France. You need to wait for the actual license to be released before driving.

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

Yes, it is mandatory to take driving lessons from a professional driving school in France. Self-teaching is not allowed.

Tips for Saving Money

Select a Driving School Wisely: Research and compare driving schools in your location to find the one that uses the best value for cash. Some schools may use discounts or unique bundles.
Study Independently: While most driving schools include the theory course in their packages, studying independently can conserve you some cash on theory materials.
Practice with Friends or Family: If you have buddies or household who are already accredited chauffeurs, they can assist you practice driving beyond driving school lessons, potentially minimizing the variety of lessons you need.
Take the Theory Test Early: Taking the theory test early can assist you focus on the useful elements of driving, which might minimize the number of driving lessons you need.
Retake Tests Quickly: If you stop working a test, retake it as quickly as possible to avoid spending for extra lessons or exams.

Acquiring a French driving license can be an expensive venture, however it is a required step for anyone who desires to drive legally in France. By comprehending the various costs and steps included, you can better prepare for the process and possibly conserve cash along the method. Whether you are a new student or a skilled driver, the key is to choose the best driving school, research study vigilantly, and complete the required tests efficiently. With the best approach, you can navigate the system and enjoy the freedom of driving in France.

This guide provides a comprehensive introduction of the expenses associated with obtaining a French driving license, from the initial learning stage to the final issuance of the license. By following these steps and ideas, you can make the procedure as smooth and cost-effective as possible.