10 Fundamentals On French Driving License Cost You Didn't Learn In School

Greenwood Handberg

Feb 22, 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 expensive procedure, specifically for those who are not acquainted with the system. Whether you are a new local, an immigrant looking to transform an international license, or a French resident seeking to restore or change a lost license, understanding the numerous expenses included is important. This short article supplies an in-depth breakdown of the expenditures connected with the French driving license, together with some often asked concerns to help navigate the process.

Overview of the French Driving License

In France, the driving license (Permis de Conduire) is released by the Prefecture and is needed to operate a motor lorry legally. The procedure to get a French driving license differs depending upon your circumstance, such as whether you are a new learner, a knowledgeable driver, or an immigrant with an international license. prix du permis de conduire français differ based on these factors.

Costs for New Learners

For people who are new to driving, the process involves several 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 average cost of a driving school package in France ranges from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, depending upon the region and the number of lessons consisted of. Some driving schools offer flexible plans, permitting you to pay as you go or pick a fixed number of lessons.
Theory Course: Most driving schools consist of a theory course in their plans. However, if you choose to study independently, you can buy theory books or online resources. The cost 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 multiple times, however each attempt will incur a new fee.

Practical Driving Test

Practical Test Fee: The cost for the useful driving test is EUR101.80. Like the theory test, you can retake the practical test if you fail, but each retake will need an extra charge.
Additional Practice: If you need more practice before the test, extra 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 useful test, you will need to get the actual driving license. The issuance cost is EUR25.20.

Expenses for Experienced Drivers with an International License

If you currently have a legitimate driving license from another country, the procedure of getting a French driving license can be more uncomplicated, but it still involves some costs:

Application Process

Application Fee: The application cost for a French driving license for immigrants with a legitimate international license is EUR65.90.
Medical Certificate: You will require to supply a medical certificate, which can cost in between EUR30 and EUR50, depending on the physician and the area.
Translation of Foreign License: If your foreign license is not in French, you will require to have it equated by a certified 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 reciprocal arrangement 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 need to take the theory test, which costs EUR34.50.
Practical Test: In some cases, you might need to take a practical test as well. The charge for this test is EUR101.80.

License Issuance

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

Expenses for Renewal or Replacement

If you currently have a French driving license and require to restore or change it, the expenses are generally lower:

Renewal

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

Replacement

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

Additional Costs to Consider

Driving School Insurance: Many driving schools need you to have insurance while you are finding out. The expense of this insurance can differ, however it usually ranges from EUR100 to EUR200 for a year.
Practice Car: If you select to practice driving outside of driving school lessons, you will require to have a car that is properly guaranteed. The cost of car insurance coverage can be a significant extra expense.
Road Tax (Taxe Routière): While not directly related to getting a driving license, it deserves keeping in mind that you will need to pay roadway tax if you own a car in France. The amount varies based on the type and age of the automobile.

Actions to Obtain a French Driving License

For new learners, the procedure to obtain a French driving license usually involves the following steps:

Enroll in a Driving School: Choose a reputable driving school (auto-école) and enroll 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 must pass this test to continue to the dry run.
Complete Driving Lessons: Take the necessary number of driving lessons to prepare for the practical test.
Take the Practical Test: Schedule and take the practical driving test. If you stop working, you can retake the test after a waiting period.
Use for the License: Once you pass the useful test, make an application for the actual driving license at the Prefecture.
Receive the License: Wait for the license to be provided and sent to your address.

For experienced motorists with an international license, the process might be slightly different:

Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your country has a mutual arrangement with France, which may simplify the process.
Collect Documentation: Collect all necessary documents, including your valid international license, a medical certificate, and a qualified translation of your license if required.
Obtain the License: Submit your application and pay the application fee at the Prefecture.
Take Required Tests: If required, 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 student?

The total cost for a new learner can range from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, including driving school charges, theory test charges, dry run charges, and the issuance fee.

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 charge, 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 as much as one year from the date of your arrival. Nevertheless, it is a good idea to transform your license to a French one to avoid any legal issues.

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

Some driving schools use discount rates for students, young drivers, or those who pay ahead of time. It is worth asking about these discount rates when selecting a driving school.

Q5: What occurs if I fail the dry run?

If you stop working the useful test, you can retake it after a waiting period. Each retake will cost an additional EUR101.80.

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

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

Q7: Can I drive with a provisionary license while waiting for my French driving license?

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

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

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

Tips for Saving Money

Pick a Driving School Wisely: Research and compare driving schools in your location to discover the one that uses the best worth for money. Some schools might use discount rates or unique bundles.
Study Independently: While most driving schools consist of the theory course in their bundles, studying separately can conserve you some money on theory materials.
Practice with Friends or Family: If you have buddies or household who are currently licensed drivers, they can help you practice driving outside of driving school lessons, potentially reducing the number of lessons you need.
Take the Theory Test Early: Taking the theory test early can assist you focus on the practical aspects of driving, which might minimize the number 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 pricey endeavor, however it is a needed action for anyone who wishes to drive legally in France. By understanding the different expenses and actions included, you can better prepare for the process and potentially save money along the way. Whether you are a new learner or a skilled driver, the key is to pick the best driving school, study diligently, and complete the needed tests efficiently. With the ideal approach, you can browse the system and enjoy the freedom of driving in France.

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