If you're moving to France and hold an active driving license from an EU or EEA country, you can easily exchange it for the French licence. There are however some limitations.
For example, Kentucky does not have an agreement of reciprocity with France. You must take a written test as well as an exam in order to get your French permit.
How do you apply
The process of getting your French driving license is extremely complex. The process can take between one and two years. It is required for all who wants to drive in France. The good news is that you can now apply online, which will help you avoid some of the hassles.
You must first ensure that you have all the required documents. These include valid driver's licenses and proof of identity and proof of residency. You must also take a written and driving test in order to get the permit. You will then have to undergo a medical examination to determine if you're competent to drive.
You can submit your documents online to ANTS. Log into France Titres and select Nouvelle demand (new application). Then, click on Le permis de conduire (driver's license). Select Je veux la fabrication d'un permis de conduire (I request the production of an driver's license). Fill out the form and include all the information required. You should also indicate whether you are applying on behalf of minors. Finally, select No to the question: A medical visit is required? Is a medical exam required? ).
Once you have the proper documents You can start the process of exchanging your US driver's licence for one of a French license. This should be done before your American driver's license expires. You'll need to go through the entire process all over again in the event that you fail to do it.
In France It is essential to always carry your driving license as well as your insurance and registration documents with you when driving. Failure to do so can result in a fine.If you're not familiar with the way driving works in France It's an excellent idea to get some lessons from a professional. In many cases the lessons will cost you money, but they're worth it in the long run. If you know the rules, you'll be able drive more safely and comfortably.
Requirements
If you're looking to buy the French B driving license online there are some requirements you must fulfill. You must first be a European citizen with personal and professional ties to France. You must also pass two sections of the test that includes a written exam and a driving practice test. If you don't meet these requirements, you may still take the Code exam as an independent candidate, without having to go through a driving course. This is a great choice if you're trying to save money on your training fees at a driving academy.
To get to get a French driving license you must be at least 18 years old. However, you are able to begin driving at the age of 16. This will allow you to prepare for both the practical and theory tests. You must also present a medical certificate that certifies you as fit to drive. You will find a list of approved doctors in the official document booklet.
The process of exchanging your driving license is fairly simple. The ANTS website (National Agency for Secured Titles) is responsible for handling the exchange. To start, log into your ANTS account and select Nouvelle demande in the upper right-hand corner. Once you're registered, click on Le permis de conduire (Driver's license) and then I request the creation of a permis of driving (I demand the production of an driver's license). Choose No to the question: A medical visit is it necessary? (Is medical visits required?) as category B licences don't require a medical examination.
You will receive a NEPH number after submitting the form. This is the number on your new French driving license. Next, you must register for the test in the theory section. You can do this through the ANTS website or at your local Direction Departementale en charge des territoires. You must have your NEPH number as well as an acceptable photo ID to sign up.
After you have received your French driving license, you must be careful to avoid accidents and traffic violations. You'll lose points on your driving record if you commit an offense. The Ministry of Interior will send you a notice once your points balance is zero. You will then have to pay a penalty.
Documents are required
Before you can apply for the French B driving licence, you must have several documents ready. This includes your driving license from your country of origin, proof of identity, and a medical certificate. The medical certificate should be signed by a doctor and should state that you suffer from mental or physical impairment or a learning issue. The document should be dated no later than three months prior to the application. It is also important to have a copy your insurance policy. This is required should you be involved in an accident on French roads.
If you hold a driver's licence from a European Union or EEA member state, you can drive it in France without having to take the French two-part examination. This applies to drivers of vehicles ranging from the class B to the class D, including motorhomes and campers. However, some companies may refuse to provide an automobile rental service to those with non-EU licenses.
The French government has exchange arrangements in place with a variety of countries, such as Switzerland, Australia and South Africa. If your country is included, you can exchange a foreign driving license for an French licence without having to pass the French written and practical test. However, you must make sure that you complete all necessary documentation and file it within the first year of living in France.
You can submit your application for a French licence online through the ANTS website. The site will require you create an account and upload the required documents. After you have submitted your information you can view the status of your request. You will receive an email or text message confirmation when you have submitted your online application.
If your driving licence is stolen or lost, you must notify the police immediately. You can do this on the internet or at the police station in your area. The police will then issue you a document that will allow you to drive legally in France for the next two months.
Fees
The French B driving license (suspension du permis de Conduire et permis Retiré d' conduire category B), is the official document that allows you to drive on French roads. It is shaped like a credit card and lists your personal details including your driving license number as well as date of issue. It also indicates the types of vehicles you are allowed to drive. It is valid for a period of 15 years.
The cost of getting a driving permit is not inexpensive. Based on where you live you may have to pay for 20 hours of instruction and the Highway Code course and a separate practical driving exam. This costs on average around $1800. If you fail the exam, it will cost you EUR30 to take it again and there is no limit to how many times you may take it back.
Click on Nouvelle demande (new request) in the upper-right corner of the page to fill out an online application for a driving license. Then select Le permis de conduire (driver's license) and choose Je demande la fabrication d'un titre de permis de conduire (I order the production of my driver's license). If you answered yes to the question "une visite medicale est-elle necessaire?", you will require a medical check-up before you can be granted the permit.
If you have a permit from another EU/EEA member state or a foreign country, it's possible to swap it for one that is a French one following at least one year of residence in the country. You can drive in France when your license is valid and hasn't been suspended or cancelled.
Note that your French driving license will be issued under the name you provided on the application. The name on the permit won't be altered even if you later change your name on official documents. Additionally, you can't apply for a driving license to get identity cards or passports. This is only valid for driving in France. If you need these other documents, you'll need to get an official translation from your Etat member or the French Ministry of Justice.
