It is important to be aware of certain things before driving on French roads if you are a foreigner moving to France. You will need to exchange your driving license first.
ANTS is the agency that manages all permits and licenses for foreign licenses in France. They can help you with the process however it's not cheap.Legality
The French driving license is an official document issued by the Ministry of Ecological Transition and Territorial Cohesion (Ministere de la transition ecologique and de la cohesion of territories - METTC). The license covers everything related to driving, from traffic laws to speeding and parking. The license is valid for three years and allows drivers to drive vehicles that weigh up to 3,500 kg. The license also contains demerit points which are used to penalize bad drivers and reward good ones.
Before you can get your license you must pass a test on theory and take a driving class. The theory test is conducted on a computer, and you must be able to answer all questions correctly in order to pass. If you fail the exam, you must wait two days before attempting the test again. You can take the test multiple times as you like, but you need to have third-party insurance before you drive.
If you have an French driving license, you are required to wear a seatbelt at all time. Seatbelts must be worn in the back of cars with children under 12 years older. You should also keep your documents on you and adhere to the rules for roadside assistance. You should also have a first-aid kit.
For a maximum of one year, Americans who relocate to France can use their American driving license. However they must exchange it for one that is a French one within that time. This only applies if the license was suspended or revoked in the country of origin.
The French license is only issued after the applicant has presented proof of identity, date of birth, and nationality. It must be written in French or accompanied by an official translation. The applicant must also provide medical certificates or a document confirming their impairment. This document must be signed and certified by a physician before the start of their French residency. In addition, they must possess an official medical certificate from the Prefecture that confirms they are able to take the ETG exam without restrictions.
Regulations
To be able to drive legally in France you must pass the theoretical part of the driving test. You must then pass the practical test with an instructor who is a professional. The driving test requires at least 20 hours of accompanied instruction with an instructor. Once you feel confident about your driving abilities you are able to take the test in order to obtain your license. After passing the test, you'll be issued a three-year probationary permit.
French driving licences are hard plastic cards that are similar to credit cards. They feature the holder's photo name, birth date, name address, signature and driving license number. They also list the type of vehicles that a driver is permitted to drive. The new cards are upgraded with security features that prevent counterfeiting. The most important personal information are laser-engraved underneath the photo and the card comes with an outside edge that is transparent.
The permit B permits drivers to drive vehicles with a maximum weight of 3.5 tonnes and a maximum number of nine seats. The EU approved an amendment to the maximum weight of vehicles that B holders can drive. The maximum weight limit for certain vehicle categories, such as campervans and motorhomes, will be increased to 4.25 tonnes.
To purchase a B-category permit you must be 18 years old or older and have at least one year of driving experience. If you're under 18 years old, you must have an adult or guardian accompany you while driving. A GDL, or graduated driving license is available to youngsters between 15 and 17 and one-half. This is only valid in France and requires a driver to be with an adult at all times.
You can purchase a French driving license online through the France Titres site. Once you have an account on France Titres you can click Nouvelle Demand (new application) and then select Le permis De conduire. Enter your personal information and select the reason you are the request for a driving license like Une visite medicale is-it necessary? (is a medical visit necessary). Unlike some countries, French driving permits are valid for up to 15 years, although they will need to be renewed at some point.
Requirements
As a newcomer to France You may be excited to begin driving, especially if your new home is near the vineyard-lined roads of Champagne country. However, it's important to be aware of French driving laws and regulations prior to hitting the road. These include the licence prerequisites, insurance requirements, and many more. In addition, you will require an original copy of your passport along with two passport-sized pictures.
The French driver's permit (permis de conduire perdu de conduire, also known as permis B) is a pink plastic card that appears like an credit card. It contains your personal information, such as your age, the date of your license's issuance as well as expiration date, as well as your medical history. In most areas of the country, it serves as an official identification card. The French license is valid for up to 15 years, subject to your age and the type of vehicle.
You can apply for an French license on the internet, or visit the office in person. The process is simple and can be completed in under 30 minutes. You will need to bring an ID or passport valid card, as well as a certified statement, which is usually done by one of your parents. If you are under 18 or have an driving permit from an EU member state, you must also provide a proof of good behavior from the country which issued your license.
To obtain a license, you must pass both the theory and practical test. The theory test, referred to as the Code by some, is able to be taken by yourself without having to go through a school. If you fail the test, you have two options: you can take it again after some time or sign up for a training course at a driving school.
In France, EU and EEA licenses are valid provided they haven't expired or been suspended. In case of a temporary suspension, you can request an extension. If you want to drive in a different category other than the B category, you will have to change your licence. If you are a citizen of a country that is not part of the EU/EEA area, you can only drive with your existing license for one year after the time you have established residency in France. You must also have third-party liability car insurance.
Fees
The French driver's license, also known as the permis B, is a pink plastic card that has the size of credit cards. It holds your personal information as well as the date and type of expiration of your driving licence, as well as the vehicle you are permitted to drive. The card is also an official ID that allows you to enter the majority of public places and private businesses.
The first time you purchase permits, the cost is no cost, however it will cost you EUR25 to renew. You can pay online or by bank transfer. There could be additional regional charges, dependent on the location you are in.
Log into your France Titres Account and click on Nouvelle request (new request) in the upper-right corner. Select Le permis de conduire, then Je demande la fabrication d'un titre de permis de conduire (I order the production of my driving licence). You'll need to provide the following details:
Choose a reason to your request. The examiner won't tell you how well you did in the test. However, you can check the results two to four days after the exam. The driving school will book your test for you and pay the EUR30 fee on your behalf.
If you're an American moving to France then your US driving licence will need to be exchanged for the French license. The process takes around one year and involves passing the French written and practical tests.
You can save money and ease the burden by obtaining an international permit while you are in the country. You can obtain an international driving permit by visiting the France Titres ANTS website and selecting "I request an International Driver's License".
Before you can apply for your international driving permit you must possess a French B-category license or higher. You'll also have to pass both a theory and practical exam. Driving lessons can be expensive in France with rates that range between EUR40 to EUR60 per hour. Some schools do offer packages that cover a certain number of hours.
