How to Get a French Driving License
Before you begin driving in France it is crucial to be aware of the driving regulations. You should also be aware of the requirements for a driving licence.
Depending on the prefecture, it could take a few weeks or a few months to obtain your French driving license. It's a pink credit-card format and valid for 15 years.
Rules of the road
France is a popular travel destination due to its stunning countryside and vibrant cityscapes. But, it is essential to be aware of the rules of the road in order to avoid being in trouble with the police. Always have your driving licence and proof of insurance with you. A driving permit is also useful to get around.
The traffic in France is slower and there are more pedestrians. This makes it essential to drive cautiously and keep an eye out for motorists turning left in front of you. It is also not recommended to drive after having consumed alcohol. If you're caught driving under the influence and are penalized up to 135 euros or lose points on your license.
In France, it is illegal to use your mobile while driving. You are only able to make calls using hands-free technology if your helmet has an integrated headset. If you are stopped by police, you could be fined for texting or talking while driving. Additionally, you must wear a seat belt in the rear and front seats. If you have kids under 10 years old in your car, they must be placed in the back seat and secured with an approved seat belt or approved child seat.
Additionally, you must keep a copy of your passport at all times. This is required by the law and will be checked in the event of a stop for any reason.
Another thing to keep in mind is that speed limits on French roads differ by kind of road. Autoroutes, for example have a higher limit on speed than other roads. You can pay tolls by cash or credit card.
Priorite a droite is the most important rule to adhere to in France. This means that any vehicle entering from your right gets priority. This rule applies even if the vehicle is joining a busy road through a small village road. This is particularly important on narrow country roads, where it is normal for cars to cross each other in the middle of the road.
Passing the test
After you've passed the written test, you're now ready to take the practical driving exam. This is a more difficult portion of the test than the theory exam, and you'll need to do lots of practice before you pass it. You need to find a driving coach who will give you a number of driving lessons prior to the test. Before driving in France you must have at minimum third party liability car insurance.
You can sign up for the exam by visiting the ANTS website and entering your NEPH number (your application number) and a photo ID. The French driving license photo must be full-face and in color unlike the American passport photo. You can request a translator if are not a native English speaker. It must be requested at a minimum two days prior to your test.
You will receive a CEPC (certificat exam de permis of driving) after passing the driving test. This is what you'll have to show to your local prefecture to apply for an French driving license. Then, you'll be able start driving in France.
If you fail the driving test, you'll have to wait between two and 45 days before attempting to take it again. There's no limit on the number of times you can retake the driving test however, it's advised to wait until you are ready to retake it.
A driver's license is a must to live in France. If you are planning to stay in France for more than one year, you will need a driving license before you are allowed to drive on French roads. While some Americans choose to ignore this obligation and continue to drive with their US license beyond the one year mark, this could result in serious accidents and fines.
Fortunately there are a few states that have reciprocal agreements with France. Kentucky for instance, allows its citizens the option to swap their U.S. driver's licenses for French ones without having to go through the lengthy and exhausting process of passing a written test as well as a practice driving test. Some Americans must go through a lengthy process to obtain their French licenses.
How to obtain a license
If you're an expat, or a foreigner with an official driving license from a country that has reciprocity agreements with France, you can exchange it to a French licence without having to pass the driving test. But there are a few guidelines you must be aware of. First, make sure that your driver's licence was issued while you were legally living in the country where it was issued. You will then need to complete a new application. The form can be found on the internet. Follow the next step after selecting Renewal of Driver's Licence.
Select the reason you require the license and then fill in your driver's information. If you have a licence B, you are able to drive vehicles up to 3,5 tonnes and with the maximum of nine passengers. You can also tow a vehicle that is not heavier than yours.
Next, you will need to submit your application to the prefecture that is in your region. You must fill out all the necessary information and attach copies your identity documents. Be sure to include your passport or another photo ID, and a proof of address. You will also need to provide a medical certificate, if necessary. Licences for categories A and B are valid for 15 years, whereas licences for categories C, CE, and DL are valid for five years.
In certain cases the need for an French license can be obtained in a matter of months. This is especially the case for foreign students who are enrolled in a French university. Those who are not enrolled at an French university could be expected to wait a lot longer for their licence to be approved.
If you want to learn how to drive in France it is recommended to learn how to drive at a school that teaches English. The majority of driving schools in Paris offer driving courses in English, but it's not the case in all places. Residents who are not in the capital should contact their local prefecture to ask if there is an driving school that can provide lessons in English.
Driving in France
When driving in France it is crucial to follow the rules of the road and observe proper etiquette. Also, you should possess a valid driver's license and third-party liability insurance for your car in place. Driving lessons with an experienced driving instructor is an excellent method to master the language and rules of the road. Also, you should ensure that your vehicle has been properly maintained and filled with fuel prior to your journey. Also, you must be aware of the different speed limits for various types of roads in France.
In France traffic laws are strictly enforced. The French have a points system that punishes traffic violations. Beginning with six points and must earn twelve points before their probationary phase is finished. If you receive a ticket for a traffic offense your points are removed. The amount of fine is determined by the category of the violation.
The theory test is the initial step to obtaining a French driving license. The test consists of 40 questions that examine the rules of the road and traffic safety. The second part is the practical portion of the exam. It requires at least twenty hours of driving under the supervision of an instructor. If you fail the practical part of the test, you have to wait a year before trying again.
You must be at least 18 years old to obtain an French driver's licence and have an examination for medical reasons. For licencefrancexpress.com who suffer from disabilities or health issues must undergo an examination for medical conditions.
If you're from a non-EU or EEA country, you will require an International Driving Permit in addition to your regular license. The IDP includes a driver's photo and the translation in 12 languages of their driving licence. You can obtain it at the airport or a car rental company.
Driving in France isn't easy, however you can drive safely there with a foreign driver's license in the event that you have an IDP. It is important to learn the driving rules and learn a few lessons prior to attempting to drive by yourself.