The first step to driving in France is to get a French license. This can be done online via the ANTS site.
The B license permits you to drive vehicles weighing less than 3.5 tonnes and with a maximum of nine seats. This includes standard passenger vehicles and people carriers.
Exam for driver's license
Whether you're an EU driver or not the process of obtaining your driving license in France will require passing an exam written (code de la route) and a practical test. In certain instances, you may need to take additional hours of driving lessons to prepare for the test. You can also choose to enroll in a driver's training program, which will handle the scheduling and training for you. There are no limitations on the number of times you can take the test and it's priced at EUR30 each time.
You may also take the exam as an independent candidate however this option is only applicable for people with a driver's licence from their country of origin that was issued in English. In addition, you must provide a medical certificate or a document certifying your handicap, known as a "reconnaissance de qualite de travailleur handicape". You can then take the test in one of the special sessions for Www.Licencefrancexpress.com non-French speakers (examen ETG specifique).
To pass the driving test in the practical you must achieve a minimum score of 20 points and have no exclusionary error. It is not possible to tell if you have passed or failed the test by the examiner. However you can verify the results online within 48 hours after your test using your NEPH. You can download the digital version of your permit after you've confirmed your passing. The France Titres page to purchase your French driving license allows you to purchase your physical French license online.
A new driver's license in France is valid for five years. After five years, you'll have to renew your driving licence by applying for a new one with the prefecture. You'll need to bring your old driving licence, along with a passport photograph and an address in France. You can apply for a new driving licence if your intention is to add a new category of vehicle or change your name on your current licence. However you must have resided in France for at least six months to be eligible. You must also hold a valid health insurance policy that covers third-party insurance for vehicles.
Exchange of foreign driving license
If you're planning to move to France and have a driver's licence from your home country, there are certain conditions that you must be able to meet. You are able to exchange a licence only in the event of an agreement of reciprocity between France and your home country, and the license is still valid. You'll need to pass the French driving test in the event that you do not. The process can take a few years or more however, it appears to be moving much more quickly now that the application is available online.
If your licence comes from a country a member of the EU or European Free Trade Association (EFTA - Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway) or If you have an British or Northern Irish license that was issued prior to 2013, you are able to use it in France. You must first obtain third-party liability insurance before you are permitted to drive. These types of licences are known as "permis de conduct." They have the shape and size like a credit card and they include your personal details, as well as the cars you're permitted to drive.
In addition, you must not have outstanding traffic convictions or fines on your license. You must also be over the legal driving age of your country. Then, there are other conditions that you must be able to meet, for instance the fact that your license was issued before you arrived in France. The driving license must be in your name and written in your native language or accompanied by an official translation. It must also be valid in the country of residence, and must have been obtained before the start date of your residence permit or visa.
New drivers in France start with six points on their driving licenses. They can earn up to 12 points in total. You could face a fine for each offense or lose points from your license. Depending on the number of points you've got, your license could be suspended for a certain period of time. If you intend to stay in France for an extended period of time, it's worth learning how to drive.
Learning to drive in France
If you're planning to move to France and are looking to learn to drive, you can either enroll in a driving class or learn the whole process yourself. Whichever option you choose there are numerous hoops to jump through. The wait to get your license in France can be up to 3 months due to a shortage of driving examiners. The actual test is similar to the UK's two-part theory exam and practical test.
The first thing you'll need do is pass a 'highway code test", also known as a 'lecode'. This is a lengthy test that should take at least a few months to complete, so don't try to rush it or your French driver might be a bit harsh with you (not as we have learned from personal experience). This is basically learning the highway code and taking a lot of'mock' tests. Then when you're confident enough you can move on to the real thing.
The next step is to do some time in a supervised drive with an experienced driver. This is called conduite supervisee in France and you'll have to sign up with a prefecture to be recognized as conduite supervisee. It is believed that you must do at least 20 hours of this before you even consider taking the test.
You will also have to keep track of all your travels. This is intended to ensure that you're not just going to school and returning each day (that would count for 3000 kilometres, but won't get you very far!) The journeys must be varied, so driving around your community for a whole year may not cut it. If you commit an offense such as drinking or speeding, you will get a fine and lose points off your French driver's license.
The left lane should only be used for passing cars and not for driving at a slow pace. Be aware that you could be stopped when you drive slowly in the left-hand lane of a dual carriageway.
Insurance
If you intend to drive in France you'll require a French B driving license. This license permits you to drive cars that are not heavier than 3.5 tons. It also permits you to operate vehicles with nine seats or less. The permit is valid 15 years after the date of the issue. You may need to take an examination to maintain your license, based on your age and the category of vehicle you drive.
You will also require a policy of third-party liability for your vehicle. This policy will protect your vehicle in the event of an incident or theft. In addition, you must keep your driving license as well as insurance documents and car registration papers on you at all times. In certain instances, you might also require a passport.
It's not difficult to buy and insure your vehicle in France. In fact, it can be simple and easy, especially when you already have a driver's license issued by an EU or EFTA country. This is due to the fact that some states have reciprocal agreements with France that make the process much easier.
The French driving license (permis d'conduire) is a document that contains your personal information, along with the type and date of expiry of the vehicle that you are permitted to drive. It can also be used as a proof of identity in a majority of places. It's a pink credit card-sized plastic cards.
It's important to know that should your French permit is stolen or lost, you must report it immediately. You can do this on the ANTS website. You will then receive a temporary license that is valid for two months. If you've committed an offence, you could also be fined or removed from your license. The maximum number of points is twelve.
