It is crucial to understand the driving laws of France before you begin driving. You should also know the requirements for obtaining a driving license.
Depending on the prefecture, it may take a few weeks or several months to get your French driving license. It is a pink credit-card format that is valid for 15 years.
Rules of the Road
With its stunning countryside and vibrant cities, France is a popular destination for road excursions. However, it is important to know the rules of the road in order to avoid a snafu with the police. It is crucial to keep an official driving license and insurance papers with you at all times. An international driving permit (IDP) is beneficial to ensure you are able to travel.
The traffic in France is more sluggish and there are more pedestrians. It is therefore essential to drive cautiously and watch out for drivers who make a left turn in front of you. It is also not advised to drive after having consumed alcohol. If you're caught driving while impaired and are penalized up to 135 euros or lose points on your license.
It is against the law to use a cell phone while driving in France. You are only able to make hands-free phone calls when your helmet has an integrated headset. If you are stopped by the police, you may be fined for texting or talking while driving. Also, you must wear a seatbelt in both the back and front seats. If you have kids under the age of 10 in your vehicle, they should be placed in the back seat and secured by a seat belt or an approved child seat.
Additionally, you should carry a copy of your passport with you at all times. This is legally required and will be checked by the police if you are stopped for any reason.
Another thing to keep in mind is that speed limits on French roads vary by type of road. For instance, Autoroutes have a higher speed limit than other roads. There are also tolls when driving on these roads that you can pay in cash or a credit card.
The most important rule in France is to prioritize a straight, which means that any vehicle entering from your right has the right to use the right of way. This rule applies regardless of whether the vehicle is joining a busy road through a small village road. This is particularly crucial when driving on country roads where it is commonplace for cars to pass each other in the middle of the road.
Passing the test
Once you've passed the written exam then it's time to take the driving test. This is a much more difficult test than the theory test and you'll need to practice a lot before passing. It's important to find a driving school that offers plenty of behind-the-wheel lessons before taking the test. It is also important to ensure that you have at minimum third-party liability insurance on your vehicle prior to attempting to drive in France.
You can sign up for the written exam by visiting the ANTS website and entering your NEPH number (your application number) along with a photo ID. Contrary to American passport photos, French driving license photos must be full-face and in color. If you're not a native English speaker, you can request a translator for your exam. But, you must make the request at least two days in advance of the test.
You'll receive an CEPC (certificat d'examen de permis A – permis A2 of driving) after passing the driving test. This is the document you'll need to show your local prefecture to apply for an French driving license. After that, you'll be able to begin driving in France.
If you fail the driving test, you'll have to wait between two and 45 days before you can take it again. There's no limit on the number of times you may retake the driving test, but it's recommended to wait until you're at ease enough to retake the test.
Having a driving license is essential for surviving living in France. If you plan to live in France for longer than a year, you'll need a driving license before you can drive on French roads. Some Americans ignore this requirement, and continue to drive with their US license after the one year mark. This could lead to serious accidents or fines.
Fortunately, some states have an agreement of reciprocity with France. Kentucky is one of them. Kentucky permits its citizens to exchange their U.S. driver's licenses for French ones without having to go through the lengthy and tedious process of passing a test written as well as a practical driving exam. Certain Americans need to undergo a lengthy process to obtain their French licenses.
How do I obtain a license
If you are an expat or a foreign national who has an active driver's license from the country with which France has a reciprocity agreement you can exchange your licence for one in French one without having to take the driving test. There are some rules you should know. First, ensure that your driver's license was issued while you were legally living in the country where it was issued. Then, you must complete an application for the renewal of your license. The form can be found online. Select the option for renewal de titre (driver's license renewal) Then click Etape next step (next step).
Enter your details and select the reason why you require a licence. If you are a licensed driver B, you are able to drive vehicles that weigh up to 3,5 tons, and with the maximum of nine passengers. You will also be able to haul a trailer not heavier than the vehicle you are driving.
Next, you will need to submit your application to the prefecture of your region. You must complete all the required details and attach copies of your identity documents. Make sure that you include your passport or other photo ID along with a proof of address. You will also require a medical certificate in the event of a medical need. The licences for the categories A and B last for 15 years. The licences for categories C, CE, DL, and D are valid for five years.
In some cases the need for a French license can be granted in a matter of months. This is particularly the case for foreign students in an French university. Those not enrolled in a French university can expect to wait a lot longer for their license to be approved.
If you are looking to learn to drive in France it is best to take a driving course at a school that offers English. Most schools in Paris offer English classes, but not all. People who live outside the capital city should contact their local prefecture to inquire if there is a driving school that offers classes in English.
Driving in FranceWhen driving in France it is crucial to comply with the rules of the road and follow proper etiquette. A valid driver's license and third-party insurance for cars are required. Taking driving lessons from a professional driving instructor is a great method to master the language and rules of the road. In addition, you should ensure that your vehicle is properly maintained and fueled prior to embarking on your journey. Lastly, you should be aware of the different speed limits for various kinds of roads in France.
In France, traffic laws are strictly enforced. The French have a point-based system to punish traffic offenses. New drivers begin with six points and must accumulate twelve points before their probationary phase is completed. If you receive a ticket for a traffic infraction your points are removed. The fine is determined by the category of the offense.
The theory test is the first step to obtaining a French driving license. This exam consists of 40 questions covering the rules of the road and traffic safety. The practical part of the test is the second step. It requires at least 20 hours of accompanied driving under the supervision of an instructor. If you fail the practical portion of the test, you have to wait a year before taking the test again.
You must be at least 18 years old to get an French driver's license and pass a medical exam. Those with disabilities and health problems need to undergo a specific medical examination.
If you're from an EU or non-EU EEA country, you will need an International Driving Permit in addition to your regular license. The IDP includes a driver's photo and an English translation of their driving license. You can get it at the airport or a car rental company.
Driving in France is challenging, but you can drive legally with a foreign driver's license provided you have an IDP. It is important to learn the rules of driving and learn a few lessons before you attempt to drive by yourself.
