How to Get a French Driving License
You might need an French license if you are an expat and recently moved to France. To obtain one, you need to pass a driving theory exam and practical test. This can be completed through a driving school that will handle the paperwork and book the test for you.
It is valid for three years
The French driving licence is valid for three years after the date of the date of issue. The French driving license is an image of a pink credit card with the holder's name, photo as well as date of birth and driving rights written on it. It also contains various conditions and restrictions. These may include driving while under the influence.
French driving licenses are issued by a prefecture (or region). The licenses are valid for every fifteen years and can be used in any EU country, as well as Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. Some special categories of license are valid for just five years, for instance those for heavy vehicles and passenger transport vehicles. You can renew an ordinary French license in France or in your country of origin. You must be able to pass a written and an practical test to be eligible for the renewal.
If you're an American citizen, you might be able to swap your US license for a French one without having to pass any tests. This program is only open to Americans who have lived in France for a longer period of time and possess the carte de sejour. The process usually takes within one year, and you need to have your passport or other official identification documents with you. The process could take anywhere from six to a year, so it's best to start the process early.
You can only get an French license if you're over 18 and have not lost the right to drive in the country of your origin. You must have third party liability car insurance and a medical certificate, and you must also complete at least 30 hours of training in an auto ecole (driving school). These schools are located all over Toulouse and provide French lessons and practice tests. It's a great idea to enroll in introductory French classes in addition to your French class if you're looking to pass the French test.
You can check your points balance via the Ministry of Interior's website, or by an email from the prefecture referencing 48N/48M. Follow the steps on the site to retrieve any points that were taken away because of an infraction. The name on the French driving license is the same as that of the holder at birth. Married women can use their maiden names on their licenses in the event that they would like.
It contains 12 points.
You need to have a French license to drive in France. To get one, you need to pass an exam on driving theory and an actual test. You also have to pass a medical exam. The test for theory comprises 40 multiple-choice questions. The practical test is a mix of driving skills and road safety. Depending on your age, you may be required to pass an exam written. Then, you must complete a minimum of twenty hours of driving with a driver under the supervision of an instructor.
After passing a driving theory and practical test, you'll receive your licence within three months. The license is valid for 15-years and must be displayed when driving. In addition to the points, it must have an image of the driver and the date of the issue. Points lost will be taken from your licence. If you lose 12 points, your license will be suspended for at least six months.
You can enroll in a course to regain the points you lost on your license. These courses, called stages of recuperation des points du permit that are offered by accredited centres and cost about EUR200 for two days. However, you are able to recover four points per year. You can also get back your points if you don't commit any more traffic violations for a period of two or three years.
It is important to note that you won't be able to drive with your foreign licence after one year of residency in France, unless you are a student or a diplomat. Even if you've passed the French driving test, you will need to exchange your license for one in French one if you will be residing in the country for more than a year.
It is important to know that driving laws in France are very strict. For instance, the BAC limit is lower than in the United States, and police put up random checkpoints to determine if you are sober. Additionally, licencefrancexpress.com drivers must wear headlights at night, and they must use them when passing the tunnel or in an emergency construction zone. They must also wear them when it is raining or snowing. The rules vary by region, so it's essential to study your local regulations.
It can be exchanged to the French driving license
If you're an American citizen and possess an active driver's license issued by the state of Connecticut, Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, North Carolina or Wisconsin you are able to legally drive in France for a year without having to pass a French driving test. However, if you're involved in an accident when driving with this type of license and are blamed for the crash, your insurance company could reject your claim. To avoid this, you should exchange your license for one that is a French driver's license once you arrive in France.
You can apply to exchange your license at your local Prefecture de Police or Mairie. Ask for the demande d'echange de permis de conduire form. The procedure varies between regions. It is crucial to confirm with the sub-prefecture prior to your travel. You'll also require an French translation, which can be done by an embassy or authorized interpreter.
The application must contain an acknowledgement that you've been resident of France for six months or more. A tax notice or French medical certificate can prove this. You also need to present proof of identity, like a passport and a photo. The photos must follow the format of French ID cards. This is different from American passport photographs. The application is sent to ANTS the agency which issues French drivers licenses. The license could take up to several months to be issued.
After you've successfully completed the exchange, you'll be granted an initial period of probation before your French license becomes permanent. You will also have to pass an "auto ecole" or ETG which is a theory-practical exam. Those with disabilities and certain health conditions may need to pass additional tests.
While you may learn and prepare for the exam on your own, it's usually best to attend an institution that can help you in French and take care of all the documentation. Schools will even allow you an hour of driving lessons prior to your test.
It is issued by ANTS
A French driving license is required for those who have recently relocated to France. France has a reciprocal arrangement with many countries around the world, making it relatively easy to exchange your license for one. You can apply online, however you'll need additional documents, like a valid passport and residence card, or any other evidence of identity.
You can also get an French driving licence after passing the behind-the-wheel test. After passing the test you can download your driver's license certificate (CEPC). You will need this number to order your physical licence.
Be sure to have a valid license and an exam that has been completed recently before driving on French roads. The ANTS website lists approved doctors and hospitals. You can also call your GP for an appointment.
Once you've passed the behind-the wheel test, you can apply for your physical license through the ANTS website. To begin, sign in to your ANTS account and click "Je souhaite signaler un erreur regarding my driver's license for a period of less of 6 months." Complete the required information, upload any additional documents, and submit your request.
The time to process your application will be between 2 and 45 working days. You can drive with a temporary license issued to you by your prefecture. The cost of a permit varies by region region. You can also buy a special driving insurance policy which covers you in the event of an accident.
To avoid future problems To avoid future problems, it is recommended to learn driving at a school. The driving school should have a list of instructors who are licensed. Find out their costs and whether they have English-speaking instructors.
You can also apply for a French driving license from your local prefecture. You'll need to show your current driving licence and proof of residency. It is essential to confirm that the sub-prefectures you're interested in will not allow license exchanges. Be sure to check the deadlines for submission when you need to visit the prefecture.