10 Things We Hate About French Driving License Cost

Gleason Donaldson

Feb 23, 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 in some cases pricey procedure, specifically for those who are not familiar with the system. Whether you are a new resident, a foreigner seeking to transform an international license, or a French resident seeking to renew or change a lost license, understanding the various expenses involved is vital. This post provides a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with the French driving license, together with some regularly asked questions to help browse the procedure.

Overview of the French Driving License

In France, the driving license (Permis de Conduire) is provided by the Prefecture and is needed to run an automobile legally. The procedure to acquire a French driving license varies depending upon your scenario, such as whether you are a new student, a skilled driver, or an immigrant with an international license. The expenses likewise differ based on these elements.

Costs for New Learners

For individuals who are new to driving, the process involves several actions, each with its own set of expenses:

Learning to Drive

Driving School (Auto-école) Fees: The cost of driving lessons is the most substantial expenditure. As of 2023, the average expense of a driving school plan in France varies from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, depending upon the area and the number of lessons included. Some driving schools use flexible packages, permitting you to pay as you go or choose a fixed number of lessons.
Theory Course: Most driving schools consist of a theory course in their bundles. However, if you prefer to study independently, you can purchase theory books or online resources. The cost of these materials usually varies from EUR20 to EUR100.
Theory Test Fee: The charge 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

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

Issuance of the License

License Issuance Fee: After passing the dry run, you will require to get the real driving license. The issuance cost is EUR25.20.

Expenses for Experienced Drivers with an International License

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

Application Process

Application Fee: The application fee for a French driving license for immigrants with a legitimate international license is EUR65.90.
Medical Certificate: You will need to provide 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 require to have it equated by a qualified translator. The cost of this service can range from EUR20 to EUR50.

Testing Requirements

Theory Test: If your foreign license is from a nation that has a reciprocal agreement with France, you might be exempt from the theory test. Nevertheless, if you are from a nation that does not have such a contract, you will need to take the theory test, which costs EUR34.50.
Practical Test: In some cases, you might require to take a dry run as well. acheter un permis de conduire français for this test is EUR101.80.

License Issuance

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

Costs for Renewal or Replacement

If you already have a French driving license and need to restore or change it, the expenses are typically lower:

Renewal

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

Replacement

Replacement Fee: If you need to change a lost, stolen, or damaged license, the replacement charge is EUR25.20.
Police Report: If your license has been lost or stolen, you might require to file 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 finding out. The cost of this insurance can differ, however it generally 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 effectively guaranteed. The cost of car insurance can be a considerable extra cost.
Road Tax (Taxe Routière): While not straight associated to obtaining 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 upon the type and age of the automobile.

Actions to Obtain a French Driving License

For new students, the procedure to get a French driving license generally includes the following actions:

Enroll in a Driving School: Choose a reputable driving school (auto-école) and enlist in a driving course.
Complete the Theory Course: Attend the theory classes and prepare for the theory test.
Take the Theory Test: Schedule and take the theory test at the Prefecture. You need to pass this test to continue to the practical test.
Total Driving Lessons: Take the required number of driving lessons to prepare 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.
Make an application for the License: Once you pass the useful test, request the real driving license at the Prefecture.
Receive the License: Wait for the license to be released and sent to your address.

For skilled chauffeurs with an international license, the process may be somewhat different:

Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your nation has a mutual contract with France, which may simplify the procedure.
Collect Documentation: Collect all needed documents, including your legitimate international license, a medical certificate, and a qualified translation of your license if required.
Look for the License: Submit your application and pay the application cost at the Prefecture.
Take Required Tests: If required, take the theory and/or dry runs.
Get the License: Wait for the license to be released and sent to your address.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

The total expense for a new learner can range from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, consisting of driving school fees, theory test costs, dry run costs, and the issuance charge.

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

The cost of transforming an international license can range from EUR120 to EUR200, including the application fee, medical certificate, and any needed 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. However, it is advisable to convert your license to a French one to avoid any legal problems.

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

Some driving schools offer discount rates for trainees, young chauffeurs, or those who pay beforehand. It is worth inquiring about these discounts when picking a driving school.

Q5: What takes place if I stop working the dry run?

If you fail the dry run, you can retake it after a waiting duration. 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 provisionary license while waiting for my French driving license?

No, you can not drive with a provisional license in France. You must wait on the actual license to be released before driving.

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

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

Tips for Saving Money

Choose a Driving School Wisely: Research and compare driving schools in your area to find the one that uses the best value for money. Some schools might offer discount rates or special bundles.
Research study Independently: While a lot of 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 friends or family who are currently certified chauffeurs, they can assist you practice driving beyond driving school lessons, potentially decreasing the number of lessons you need.
Take the Theory Test Early: Taking the theory test early can help you focus on the useful aspects of driving, which may minimize the variety of driving lessons you need.
Retake Tests Quickly: If you stop working a test, retake it as soon as possible to prevent spending for additional lessons or examinations.

Acquiring a French driving license can be an expensive endeavor, but it is an essential step for anyone who desires to drive legally in France. By understanding the numerous expenses and steps involved, you can better get ready for the process and potentially conserve money along the way. Whether you are a new student or a skilled driver, the secret is to pick the ideal driving school, research study diligently, and finish the needed tests effectively. With the best method, you can browse the system and enjoy the flexibility of driving in France.

This guide supplies an extensive summary of the expenses related to obtaining a French driving license, from the preliminary learning phase to the final issuance of the license. By following these actions and pointers, you can make the procedure as smooth and cost-effective as possible.