A Trip Back In Time The Conversations People Had About French Driving License Cost 20 Years Ago

Quinn McLamb

Feb 20, 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 sometimes expensive procedure, especially for those who are not knowledgeable about the system. Whether you are a new homeowner, a foreigner seeking to transform an international license, or a French person seeking to restore or replace a lost license, understanding the various costs included is essential. This short article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the costs connected with the French driving license, along with some often asked concerns to help browse the process.

Overview of the French Driving License

In France, the driving license (Permis de Conduire) is issued by the Prefecture and is required to run a motor automobile legally. The process to obtain a French driving license varies depending upon your situation, such as whether you are a new student, a skilled driver, or a foreigner with an international license. The costs also differ based on these elements.

Expenses for New Learners

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

Learning to Drive

Driving School (Auto-école) Fees: The cost of driving lessons is the most significant cost. Since 2023, the typical expense of a driving school package in France varies from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, depending on the region and the variety of lessons included. Some driving schools provide versatile bundles, allowing you to pay as you go or choose a fixed variety of lessons.
Theory Course: Most driving schools consist of a theory course in their plans. Nevertheless, if you prefer to study independently, you can buy theory books or online resources. The expense of these products normally ranges 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 effort will incur a new charge.

Practical Driving Test

Practical Test Fee: The fee for the useful driving test is EUR101.80. Like the theory test, you can retake the dry run if you fail, but each retake will need an extra fee.
Extra Practice: If you require more practice before the test, extra driving lessons can be pricey. The average cost per lesson is around EUR35 to EUR45.

Issuance of the License

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

Expenses for Experienced Drivers with an International License

If you already have a valid driving license from another country, the process of getting a French driving license can be more simple, however it still involves some expenses:

Application Process

Application Fee: The application charge 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 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 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 might 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 need to take a dry run too. The charge for this test is EUR101.80.

License Issuance

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

Expenses for Renewal or Replacement

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

Renewal

Renewal Fee: The renewal charge 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 offer a medical certificate, which can cost in between EUR30 and EUR50.

Replacement

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

Extra 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 differ, however it normally 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 properly guaranteed. The expense of car insurance coverage can be a considerable additional expenditure.
Roadway Tax (Taxe Routière): While not straight related to obtaining a driving license, it is worth keeping in mind that you will need to pay road tax if you own a car in France. The quantity differs based on the type and age of the automobile.

Actions to Obtain a French Driving License

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

Enroll in a Driving School: Choose a reliable driving school (auto-école) and register 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 continue to the dry run.
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 practical driving test. If you fail, you can retake the test after a waiting duration.
Look for the License: Once you pass the useful test, get the real driving license at the Prefecture.
Get the License: Wait for the license to be provided and sent out to your address.

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

Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your country has a reciprocal arrangement with France, which may streamline the process.
Gather Documentation: Collect all necessary documents, including your valid international license, a medical certificate, and a certified translation of your license if needed.
Obtain the License: Submit your application and pay the application cost at the Prefecture.
Take Required Tests: If required, take the theory and/or useful tests.
Receive the License: Wait for the license to be provided and sent to your address.

Often Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

The overall cost for a new student can range from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, consisting of driving school costs, theory test charges, dry run costs, and the issuance fee.

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

The cost of converting an international license can range from EUR120 to EUR200, consisting of 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 as much as one year from the date of your arrival. However, it is suggested to transform your license to a French one to avoid any legal issues.

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

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

Q5: What occurs if I fail the dry run?

If you fail the dry run, you can retake it after a waiting period. validité du permis de conduire français will cost an additional EUR101.80.

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

The processing time for the issuance of a French driving license can vary, however 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 provisional license in France. You should wait for the real license to be released before driving.

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

Yes, it is compulsory to take driving lessons from a professional 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 location to find the one that provides the very best worth for cash. Some schools may provide discount rates or special plans.
Study Independently: While most driving schools include the theory course in their plans, studying independently can save you some cash on theory products.
Practice with Friends or Family: If you have good friends or household who are currently licensed chauffeurs, they can help you practice driving beyond driving school lessons, possibly reducing the variety of lessons you require.
Take the Theory Test Early: Taking the theory test early can help you focus on the useful elements of driving, which may decrease the number of driving lessons you require.
Retake Tests Quickly: If you stop working a test, retake it as soon as possible to prevent paying for extra lessons or tests.

Acquiring a French driving license can be a pricey venture, but it is an essential step for anyone who wishes to drive legally in France. By understanding the various expenses and actions involved, you can better prepare for the procedure and possibly conserve cash along the way. Whether you are a new student or a knowledgeable driver, the secret is to select the best driving school, research study vigilantly, and finish the needed tests efficiently. With the ideal technique, you can navigate the system and take pleasure in the flexibility of driving in France.

This guide offers a detailed summary of the costs associated with getting a French driving license, from the initial knowing stage to the final issuance of the license. By following these steps and ideas, you can make the process as smooth and economical as possible.