Why People Don't Care About French Driving License Cost

Bank Hyde

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 expensive process, particularly for those who are not acquainted with the system. Whether you are a new citizen, a foreigner aiming to transform an international license, or a French citizen seeking to restore or replace a lost license, understanding the different costs involved is important. internet offers a detailed breakdown of the expenses associated with the French driving license, together with some regularly asked concerns to assist navigate the procedure.

Summary 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 procedure to get a French driving license varies depending on your scenario, such as whether you are a new learner, an experienced driver, or a foreigner with an international license. The expenses likewise vary based upon these factors.

Expenses for New Learners

For people who are new to driving, the procedure includes numerous steps, each with its own set of costs:

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 bundle in France ranges from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, depending on the region and the variety of lessons included. Some driving schools offer flexible bundles, allowing 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 packages. Nevertheless, if you prefer to study separately, you can buy theory books or online resources. The cost of these materials normally ranges from EUR20 to EUR100.
Theory Test Fee: The fee for the theory test is EUR34.50. You can take the test several times, however each effort 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 fail, but each retake will require an additional fee.
Additional Practice: If you need more practice before the test, extra driving lessons can be costly. The typical cost per lesson is around EUR35 to EUR45.

Issuance of the License

License Issuance Fee: After passing the useful test, you will need to apply for the real driving license. The issuance fee is EUR25.20.

Costs for Experienced Drivers with an International License

If you already have a legitimate driving license from another country, the procedure of obtaining a French driving license can be more simple, however it still involves some costs:

Application Process

Application Fee: The application fee for a French driving license for immigrants with a valid international license is EUR65.90.
Medical Certificate: You will require to offer a medical certificate, which can cost between EUR30 and EUR50, depending upon the medical professional 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 vary from EUR20 to EUR50.

Testing Requirements

Theory Test: If your foreign license is from a nation that has a mutual agreement with France, you may be exempt from the theory test. However, 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 may require to take a dry run as well. The cost for this test is EUR101.80.

License Issuance

Issuance Fee: Once you have actually completed the required tests and supplied all essential 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 need to restore or replace it, the expenses are usually lower:

Renewal

Renewal Fee: The renewal charge 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 need to supply a medical certificate, which can cost in between EUR30 and EUR50.

Replacement

Replacement Fee: If you require to change a lost, taken, or damaged license, the replacement cost is EUR25.20.
Cops Report: If your license has actually been lost or taken, you might require to file a police report, which can cost around EUR20.

Extra Costs to Consider

Driving School Insurance: Many driving schools need you to have insurance coverage while you are discovering. The expense of this insurance can differ, however it usually varies 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 appropriately insured. The cost of car insurance can be a considerable additional expenditure.
Roadway Tax (Taxe Routière): While not straight related to getting a driving license, it is worth keeping in mind that you will need to pay roadway tax if you own a car in France. The quantity differs based upon the type and age of the lorry.

Actions to Obtain a French Driving License

For new students, the process to get a French driving license normally involves 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 prepare 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 dry run.
Take the Practical Test: Schedule and take the practical driving test. If acheter un permis de conduire en France fail, you can retake the test after a waiting duration.
Make an application for the License: Once you pass the dry run, make an application for the actual driving license at the Prefecture.
Get the License: Wait for the license to be issued and sent out to your address.

For skilled chauffeurs with an international license, the procedure may be slightly various:

Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your country has a mutual arrangement with France, which may simplify the procedure.
Gather Documentation: Collect all needed documents, including your valid international license, a medical certificate, and a licensed translation of your license if needed.
Use for 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 issued and sent out to your address.

Regularly Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

The overall expense for a new student can vary from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, consisting of driving school charges, theory test costs, useful test fees, and the issuance charge.

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

The cost of converting an international license can vary from EUR120 to EUR200, including the application fee, 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. 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 offer discounts for trainees, young motorists, or those who pay ahead of time. It deserves asking about these discount rates when picking a driving school.

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

If you fail the practical 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 dry run?

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

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

No, you can not drive with a provisional license in France. You need to wait for the actual license to be issued before driving.

Q8: Is it obligatory to take driving lessons from a professional 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 location to discover the one that offers the finest worth for money. Some schools might offer discount rates or unique plans.
Study Independently: While many driving schools include the theory course in their plans, studying separately can conserve you some money on theory products.
Practice with Friends or Family: If you have good friends or household who are already licensed motorists, they can help you practice driving beyond driving school lessons, possibly lowering the number of lessons you need.
Take the Theory Test Early: Taking the theory test early can help you concentrate on the practical elements of driving, which might lower the variety of driving lessons you require.
Retake Tests Quickly: If you fail a test, retake it as soon as possible to avoid spending for additional lessons or exams.

Acquiring a French driving license can be a pricey venture, but it is a necessary step for anybody who wishes to drive legally in France. By understanding the numerous expenses and steps included, you can much better get ready for the process and possibly save cash along the way. Whether you are a new student or a knowledgeable driver, the secret is to choose the right driving school, research study vigilantly, and finish the needed tests effectively. With the right technique, you can navigate the system and enjoy the freedom of driving in France.

This guide provides a comprehensive summary of the expenses associated with obtaining 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 process as smooth and economical as possible.