Getting a French Driver’s License: Process and Requirements

If you’re residing in France and wish to obtain a driver’s license, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the process and requirements involved. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of how to get a French driver’s license and the necessary steps to follow.

Driving Without a License

In France, there is a provision that allows individuals without a driver’s license to drive under specific conditions. However, this only applies to special vehicles that do not exceed a speed of 60 km/h. These vehicles have gained popularity, with nearly 700,000 people driving without a license in France.

Exchange for Foreign License Holders

If you hold a residence permit and possess a valid national driver’s license, you are required to exchange it for a French driver’s license after one year of obtaining the residence permit. To initiate the exchange process, you must visit the prefecture at your place of residence to obtain an application form. The completed form should be accompanied by a copy of your residence permit, a color copy of your current driving license, and a certificate from the national traffic police that issued the license (with a French translation attached). Once you have gathered these documents, send the application via registered mail to the address indicated on the application form.

If your initial set of documents is approved, you will receive another letter within approximately 2-3 weeks. This letter will provide a new list of required documents, which may vary slightly depending on the case. The typical documents include two photos, a copy of the residence permit, the original driving license, a transfer of rights document, an original and translated certificate from the national traffic police, a document confirming your residence in France, a doctor’s certificate, and application forms. Complete the necessary paperwork, gather all the documents, and visit the prefecture.

Once the inspector at the prefecture is satisfied with your application, you will be informed, and your French driver’s license will be mailed to you within two to three weeks. The French driver’s license is valid for five years.