The Three Greatest Moments In French Driving License Cost History

Dalby Kvist

Feb 26, 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 often pricey procedure, particularly for those who are not familiar with the system. Whether you are a new citizen, a foreigner aiming to transform an international license, or a French citizen seeking to renew or replace a lost license, comprehending the different expenses included is necessary. This post supplies a detailed breakdown of the costs related to the French driving license, together with some frequently asked questions to assist browse the process.

Overview of the French Driving License

In France, the driving license (Permis de Conduire) is provided by the Prefecture and is required to operate a motor lorry legally. The procedure to get a French driving license varies depending upon your situation, such as whether you are a new student, an experienced driver, or a foreigner with an international license. The costs likewise vary based on these aspects.

Expenses for New Learners

For people who are new to driving, the procedure involves 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 significant expenditure. As of 2023, the average cost of a driving school bundle in France ranges from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, depending on the region and the variety of lessons consisted of. Some driving schools use versatile packages, enabling you to pay as you go or pick a set variety of lessons.
Theory Course: Most driving schools include a theory course in their plans. However, if you prefer to study independently, you can acquire theory books or online resources. The expense of these materials usually varies from EUR20 to EUR100.
Theory Test Fee: The cost for the theory test is EUR34.50. You can take the test several times, however each attempt will sustain 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 useful test if you stop working, however each retake will require an extra fee.
Extra Practice: If you need more practice before the test, extra driving lessons can be pricey. acheter un permis de conduire sans examen per lesson is around EUR35 to EUR45.

Issuance of the License

License Issuance Fee: After passing the dry run, you will need to obtain the real driving license. The issuance charge is EUR25.20.

Costs for Experienced Drivers with an International License

If you currently have a legitimate driving license from another nation, the process of acquiring a French driving license can be more straightforward, however it still includes some costs:

Application Process

Application Fee: The application charge for a French driving license for immigrants 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 upon the doctor and the area.
Translation of Foreign License: If your foreign license is not in French, you will need 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 country that has a reciprocal contract with France, you may be exempt from the theory test. However, if you 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 require to take a useful test also. The charge for this test is EUR101.80.

License Issuance

Issuance Fee: Once you have actually finished the required tests and supplied all needed documents, 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 restore or replace it, the costs are typically lower:

Renewal

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

Replacement

Replacement Fee: If you require to change a lost, stolen, or harmed license, the replacement charge is EUR25.20.
Police Report: If your license has been lost or taken, you might need to submit an authorities 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 vary, but it typically ranges from EUR100 to EUR200 for a year.
Practice Car: If you select to practice driving beyond driving school lessons, you will need to have a car that is properly guaranteed. The expense of car insurance coverage can be a significant additional expense.
Road Tax (Taxe Routière): While not straight related to acquiring a driving license, it deserves noting that you will need to pay road tax if you own a car in France. The amount varies based on the type and age of the vehicle.

Actions to Obtain a French Driving License

For new students, the procedure to acquire a French driving license usually includes the following steps:

Enroll in a Driving School: Choose a trustworthy 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 practical test.
Total Driving Lessons: Take the necessary variety of driving lessons to prepare for the practical test.
Take the Practical Test: Schedule and take the practical driving test. If you fail, you can retake the test after a waiting duration.
Request the License: Once you pass the dry run, look for the real 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 procedure might be somewhat different:

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

Often Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

The overall expense for a new learner can vary from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, including driving school fees, theory test costs, practical test fees, and the issuance cost.

Q2: What is the expense of transforming 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 charge, 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. Nevertheless, it is recommended to convert your license to a French one to prevent any legal problems.

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

Some driving schools provide discount rates for trainees, young drivers, or those who pay in advance. It is worth asking about these discount rates when picking a driving school.

Q5: What happens if I stop working the practical test?

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

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

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

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

No, you can not drive with a provisionary license in France. You must await the real license to be released 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 allowed.

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 value for cash. Some schools may use discount rates or special packages.
Research study Independently: While many driving schools include the theory course in their bundles, studying separately can conserve you some money on theory products.
Practice with Friends or Family: If you have pals or household who are currently certified motorists, they can help you practice driving outside of driving school lessons, potentially lowering the variety of lessons you require.
Take the Theory Test Early: Taking the theory test early can help you concentrate on the practical aspects of driving, which may reduce the variety of driving lessons you require.
Retake Tests Quickly: If you fail a test, retake it as quickly as possible to prevent spending for extra lessons or tests.

Obtaining a French driving license can be an expensive venture, however it is a necessary action for anybody who wants to drive legally in France. By comprehending the various costs and actions included, you can better get ready for the process and potentially save money along the method. Whether you are a new learner or a skilled driver, the key is to pick the best driving school, study diligently, and finish the needed tests effectively. With the right technique, you can browse the system and delight in the flexibility of driving in France.

This guide supplies a comprehensive summary of the costs related to getting a French driving license, from the initial learning phase to the final issuance of the license. By following these actions and suggestions, you can make the procedure as smooth and cost-effective as possible.