15 Reasons You Must Love French Driving License Cost

Williford Iqbal

Feb 26, 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 often pricey procedure, especially for those who are not knowledgeable about the system. Whether you are a new resident, a foreigner looking to transform an international license, or a French citizen seeking to restore or replace a lost license, comprehending the different expenses included is vital. here are the findings offers a comprehensive breakdown of the costs related to the French driving license, along with some often asked concerns to assist navigate 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 operate an automobile legally. The process to obtain a French driving license differs depending on your circumstance, such as whether you are a new student, a skilled driver, or an immigrant with an international license. The costs likewise differ based on these elements.

Expenses for New Learners

For individuals who are new to driving, the process 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 substantial cost. As of 2023, the average expense of a driving school bundle in France varies from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, depending upon the area and the number of lessons included. Some driving schools offer versatile plans, allowing you to pay as you go or choose a set variety of lessons.
Theory Course: Most driving schools consist of a theory course in their bundles. Nevertheless, if you prefer to study independently, you can acquire theory books or online resources. The cost of these materials generally varies from EUR20 to EUR100.
Theory Test Fee: The fee for the theory test is EUR34.50. You can take the test numerous times, however each attempt will incur a new cost.

Practical Driving Test

Dry Run Fee: The fee for the useful driving test is EUR101.80. Like the theory test, you can retake the dry run if you stop working, but each retake will need an additional cost.
Additional Practice: If you require more practice before the test, additional 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 require to obtain the actual driving license. The issuance charge is EUR25.20.

Expenses for Experienced Drivers with an International License

If you currently have a valid driving license from another country, the process of getting a French driving license can be more straightforward, but 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 need 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 require to have it translated by a licensed translator. The expense of this service can range from EUR20 to EUR50.

Testing Requirements

Theory Test: If your foreign license is from a country 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 a contract, you will need to take the theory test, which costs EUR34.50.
Dry run: In some cases, you might require to take a useful test also. The cost for this test is EUR101.80.

License Issuance

Issuance Fee: Once you have finished the required tests and supplied all required paperwork, 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 require to renew or change it, the costs are usually lower:

Renewal

Renewal Fee: The renewal cost for a French driving license is EUR25.20. This cost 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, stolen, or damaged license, the replacement cost is EUR25.20.
Authorities Report: If your license has actually been lost or taken, you might need to file an authorities report, which can cost around EUR20.

Additional Costs to Consider

Driving School Insurance: Many driving schools require you to have insurance while you are finding out. The cost of this insurance coverage can differ, but it normally varies 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 correctly guaranteed. The cost of car insurance can be a significant extra cost.
Road Tax (Taxe Routière): While not directly related to getting a driving license, it deserves noting that you will require to pay road tax if you own a car in France. The quantity differs based on the type and age of the lorry.

Steps to Obtain a French Driving License

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

Enroll in a Driving School: Choose a respectable 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 should pass this test to proceed to the dry run.
Total Driving Lessons: Take the necessary variety of driving lessons to prepare for the useful test.
Take the Practical Test: Schedule and take the useful driving test. If you stop working, you can retake the test after a waiting period.
Make an application for the License: Once you pass the dry run, request the actual driving license at the Prefecture.
Receive the License: Wait for the license to be provided and sent out to your address.

For experienced drivers with an international license, the process may be somewhat different:

Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your nation has a reciprocal agreement with France, which might simplify the procedure.
Gather Documentation: Collect all required documents, including your legitimate international license, a medical certificate, and a licensed translation of your license if needed.
Request the License: Submit your application and pay the application charge at the Prefecture.
Take Required Tests: If needed, take the theory and/or useful tests.
Get the License: Wait for the license to be released and sent out to your address.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

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

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

The expense of converting an international license can range from EUR120 to EUR200, consisting of 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 approximately one year from the date of your arrival. However, it is recommended to transform your license to a French one to prevent any legal concerns.

Q4: Are there any discounts offered for driving school costs?

Some driving schools provide discounts for students, young chauffeurs, or those who pay beforehand. It deserves asking about these discount rates when choosing a driving school.

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

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 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 provisional license while waiting for my French driving license?

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

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

Yes, it is necessary to take driving lessons from a professional 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 area to discover the one that provides the best value for money. Some schools may use discounts or special bundles.
Research study Independently: While the majority of driving schools consist of the theory course in their packages, studying independently can conserve you some money on theory materials.
Practice with Friends or Family: If you have buddies or household who are already certified motorists, they can help you practice driving outside of 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 might minimize the number of driving lessons you need.
Retake Tests Quickly: If you stop working a test, retake it as quickly as possible to prevent paying for extra lessons or examinations.

Acquiring a French driving license can be a pricey venture, however it is an essential step for anyone who wishes to drive legally in France. By comprehending the numerous costs and actions involved, you can much better prepare for the process and potentially save money along the way. Whether you are a new student or a knowledgeable driver, the key is to pick the ideal driving school, research study vigilantly, and complete the required tests effectively. With the ideal technique, you can browse the system and take pleasure in the liberty of driving in France.

This guide offers a thorough overview of the costs connected with acquiring a French driving license, from the preliminary knowing phase to the final issuance of the license. By following these actions and ideas, you can make the process as smooth and cost-effective as possible.