If you're planning to move to France, and you possess a valid driving permit from an EU/EEA member country, you can exchange it for a French licence. There are restrictions.
Kentucky for instance, does not have reciprocity with France. Therefore, you'll have take an examination in writing and on the spot prior to obtaining your French permit.How to Apply
The process of obtaining your French driving license can be quite complex. The process can last anywhere from one and two years. It is mandatory for anyone who wants to drive in France. However, the positive side is that it is now possible to apply online and avoid some of the hoop-la and delays associated with the process.
It is essential to first confirm that you have all required documents. You'll require a valid driving permit as well as proof of identity and proofs of residence. In addition, you have to pass an exam for driving and writing to be able to get the permit. Then, you must pass a medical examination to ensure you are physically fit enough to drive.
You can submit your documents online to ANTS. Log into your France Titres account and select Nouvelle demande (new application). Then, click on Le permis de conduire (driver's license). Select Je demand la production d’un permis de conduire. Fill out the form and provide all the required information. You should also indicate whether you are applying on behalf of minors. Select No to the question: A visite médicale est-elle nécessaire? (Is medical visits required? ).
When you have all the necessary documents, you can start the process of exchanging your US driver's license for one that is a French one. This should be done prior to when your American driver's license expires. If you don't do this, you'll need to go through the whole process again.
Another thing to be aware of is that in France, you must carry your driving license, insurance, and registration papers for your car at all times you are driving. Failure to do so can result in a fine.
It's a good idea get some driving lessons from an expert if you're not familiar with the way driving in France operates. The lessons can be costly but they're worth it. When you understand the rules, you'll be able drive more safely and efficiently.
Requirements
There are some conditions you must meet if you want to buy a French B driving licence online. First, you must be a European citizen with professional and personal ties in France. You must also pass both parts of the exam: a written examination and the practical test. You can still take the Code test as an independent candidate even if you do not meet these requirements. This option is particularly useful if you want to save on the fees associated with training at an instructor.
You must be 18 years old in order to get a French driving licence. You can begin learning how to drive as early as 16 years old. This lets you prepare for both the theoretical and practical tests. You must also present an official medical certificate that proves your fitness to drive. You can find a list certified doctors in the official document booklet.
The process of transferring your driving license is easy. The ANTS website (National Agency for Secured Titles) is responsible for managing the exchange. Log in to your ANTS Account and click Nouvelle Demand in the upper-right corner. Once you are logged in, select Le Permis D de conduire (Driver's license) and then Je demand la fabrication d'un titre de permis de conduire (I request the production of an driver's license). Select No to the question: A medical visit is it necessary? Is a medical test required? as category B licences don't require a medical examination.
You will receive a NEPH number after submitting the form. This is your application number, and will be your new French driving license number. You will then need to take the test in the theory section. You can do this through the ANTS website or at your local Direction Departementale en charge des territoires. To join you will need to provide your NEPH number along with a valid photo ID.
After obtaining your French driving licence, you should be cautious to avoid traffic violations. You'll lose points on your driving record when you commit an offence. Once your point balance reaches zero and the Ministry of Interior will notify you by way of a letter. You will be required to pay an additional penalty.
Documents are required
Before you can apply for a French B driving licence you will need a variety of documents ready. You'll need a driving license from the country of birth as well as identification proof and an official health certificate. This medical certificate should be signed by a doctor and must state that you suffer from an impairment in your physical or mental health or have a learning problem. The document must be dated within three months of your application. It is also important to have a copy your insurance policy with you. You'll need it in the event of an accident while driving on the French road system.
You can drive with your licence in France in the event that you hold the driving licence of one of the member states of the European Union or EEA. This means that you do not have to pass the French two-part test. This is applicable to drivers who operate vehicles in the classes B through D, which includes motorhomes and campers. However, some businesses may not offer an automobile rental service for those who have licenses from outside the EU.
The French government has exchange agreements in place with a variety of countries which include Switzerland, Australia, and South Africa. If your country is listed, you can exchange a foreign driving license for an French licence without having to pass the French written and practical test. However you must ensure that you fill out all necessary documentation and file it within your first year of residence in France.
You can submit your application for a French licence online through the ANTS website. The site will request that you sign up for an account and upload all the necessary documents. You can check the status of your application after you have submitted your information. You will receive an email or text message confirmation once you have submitted your online application.
If your driving licence is lost or stolen, you must notify the police immediately. You can report this on the internet or at the police station in your area. The police will issue you an official document that permits you to drive legally for the next two month in France.
Fees
The French B driving license (permis de conduire category B) is the official document that permits you to drive in France. It's the shape of credit card, and contains your personal details as well as your driving license number and the date of issue. It also identifies the kinds of vehicles you are permitted to drive. It is valid for 15 years.
The costs for obtaining permits aren't affordable. Depending on where you live you could be required to pay for a Highway Code Course, 20 hours of driving lessons and an additional practical test. On average, it costs approximately $1800. You can retake the exam for EUR30 in the event that you fail. There is no limit on the number of times you can take the test.
Click on Nouvelle demande (new request) in the upper-right corner of the page to apply online for the 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 have to get an examination for medical reasons before being granted a permit.
After a period of one year of residency in France, residents who hold a driving license from another EU/EEA country or a different country can exchange it to an French license. If you do that, you will be allowed to drive in France for as long as your license is valid and hasn't been removed or suspended.
You should be aware that your French driver's license will be issued to you as you entered it on the application form. The name on your permit will not be changed, even if you change it later on official documents. In addition, you cannot apply for a driving permit to obtain an identity card or passport. It is only valid for driving in France. If you need these other documents, then you will need to obtain an official French translation from the French Ministry of Justice or your Etat member.
