If you're planning to drive in France, the first step is obtaining a French driver's license. This can be done online through the ANTS site.The B license allows the driver to drive vehicles that weigh less than 3.5 tons and can accommodate up to 9 seats. This includes standard passenger vehicles as well as people carriers.
Driver's license exam
No matter if you're an EU driver or not, the process of getting your driving license in France will require you to pass an exam written (code de la route) and a test on the road. In certain instances you may have to spend additional hours of driving lessons to prepare for the test. You may also opt to enroll in a driver's training program, which will handle the training and scheduling for you. There are no limits on how many times you are able to take the exam, and it costs EUR30 each time.
You may also sit for the test as an independent candidate. However, this option is only available to candidates who have a driver's license from their country of origin that is 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 take the test at one of the special sessions (examen ETG spécifique) for non-French speaking candidates.
You must attain a minimum score of 20 points to pass the driving test. There is no possibility of elimination errors. The examiner will not tell you immediately if you've passed or failed, but you can examine your results online on the secure Routiere website within 48 hours of passing the test by using your number from the NEPH. After you've confirmed your pass or fail you can download a copy of the permit. You can then order your physical French driving license online through the France Titres purchase the driver's license page.
A new driver's license in France is valid for five years. After that, you'll need to renew it by filing an application for a new licence with the prefecture. You'll be required to bring along your driving licence from the past along with a passport photo and a French address. You can also submit an application for a new licence if you would like to add a different category of vehicle or alter the name on your current driving licence. To be eligible to apply, you must have living in France for at least six months. You must also have a current health insurance policy which includes third-party liability protection for vehicles.
Exchange of a foreign driving license
There are a few conditions you must satisfy if you're moving from your home country to France with a valid driver's license. 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. Otherwise, you'll have to take the French driving test and be able to pass it. The process for applying could take as long as two years however now that it's online, the process appears to be moving more quickly.
If your license is from a country that is an EU member EU or European Free Trade Association (EFTA - Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway) or in the case of an British or Northern Irish license that was issued prior to 2013, you are able to use it in France. However you must purchase third-party liability car insurance prior to the time you are allowed to drive. These types of licences are known as "permis de driving." They have the shape and size of a credit card, and include your personal information, along with the cars you're permitted to drive.
You must also be above the legal driving age in the country you are from. You must also be older than the legal driving age in your country. Then, there are other requirements you must be able to meet, for instance the fact that your licence was issued prior to the time you arrived in France. The driving license must be issued in your own name and in your home language, or be accompanied by an English translation. It must also be valid in your country of residence, and must have been acquired prior to the date you receive your visa or residence permit.
New drivers in France start off with six points on their driving licences. They can earn up to 12 RéCupéRer Des Points Sur Le Permis De Conduire. You can get 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 specific period of time. If you're planning on staying in France for a long period it is worth the trouble to learn how to drive in France.
Learning to drive in France
You can enroll in a driving school or learn to drive by yourself if you are planning to move to France. Whichever option you pick, it will involve some significant hurdles to get through. The process to get your license in France will take a lot of time, with waiting times reported to be up to three months due to an absence of driving examiners. However, the actual test is similar to the two-part theory and practice test that is offered in the UK.
The first thing you'll need to do is pass a 'highway code test"lecode" or a similar test. This is a comprehensive exam which will take at least a couple of months to complete. Do not hurry through it, or your French driver might take you to court. This stage is essentially learning about the highway code and taking a lot of'mock tests. Then when you're confident enough you're ready to take on the real test.
The next step is to do some time in a supervised by a knowledgeable driver. This is known as conduite supervisee in France and you'll need to be registered with a prefecture before being certified as conduite supervisee. You will have to complete at least 20 hours of this before you even consider taking the practical test.
Another part of the accompanied driving is that you will have to keep a log of all the journeys you make. This is to ensure that you're not just commuting to school and back every day (that could be 3000 kilometres, but will not get you very far!) The journey must be varied, which means driving in your village every day for a whole year might not be enough. You'll be penalized and lose points on your French driving licence if you commit a serious offence like drunk driving or speeding.
The left lane should only be used for passing cars and not for driving at a slow pace. Be ready to be stopped if you are driving slowly in the left-hand lane of a dual carriageway.
Insurance
You will need to have a French B license if you are planning on driving in France. This license allows drivers to drive vehicles that weigh up to 3.5 tons. It also enables you to drive vehicles that have fewer than nine seats. 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 vehicle category.
You will also require an insurance policy that covers third party liability for your vehicle. This policy will protect you in the event of an accident or theft. You should also carry your driving licence, insurance documents and car registration papers at all times. In certain situations, you will need to carry your passport on you as well.
It's not difficult to purchase and insure your car in France. It can be simple and straightforward, particularly when you hold an international driving licence from an EU/EFTA nation. Certain states have reciprocal agreements which simplify the process.
A French driving licence (permis de driving) is an official document that lists your personal details and the type of vehicle you're permitted to drive, and the date of issue and expiry date. It is also used as an official ID in most places. It's a pink credit card-sized plastic card.
You must notify your French permit immediately if it is lost or stolen. You can report it online via the ANTS website. You will then be issued an interim license that is valid for a period of two months. In addition, if you've committed a crime you'll be assessed a fine or have points removed from your license. The maximum amount is twelve points.
