"The Ultimate Cheat Sheet" On French Driving License
How to Get a French Driving License
If you're an expat it is an excellent idea to attend driving schools. They will take care of all paperwork and reduce the time required to pass a test.
The French driving license (permis) is a pink credit card. It can take anywhere from one week to several months to obtain.
Theory test
The driving theory test (le code) is an important step in the French license process. You can prepare by reading a manual and using mobile apps to aid you learn. The test covers traffic safety and road laws. You may also take a test online for free practice test. The exam is conducted using tablets in the test center, Licencefrancexpress.Com and you must answer correctly at least 35 questions to pass.
Similar to other countries, you can obtain a French driving license after passing both the theory and practical tests. However the French driving test is known to be difficult. According to recent statistics, only 59.2% of men and 54.4% of women passed their test on their first attempt, while the success rate for the practical test was lower at 58.6 percent for males and 52.8% for women. Those with certain disabilities or health conditions might need to take additional tests.
You can take the test in conjunction with a driving school that will arrange your lessons and the test, or as an independent candidate. To do this, you must sign up for the number "NEPH - numero d'enregistrement prefectoral harmonise" on the official website of the government agency ANTS. This number is required for booking the date for your theory test.
Many driving schools like Pass Rousseau offer online preparation courses that combine online practice with live classes. These courses are expensive however they could save you time. Some schools, such as Fehrenbach are specifically designed toward English learners, but they may cost more than a typical French driving school.
If you possess an official driving licence from a member country of the European Union and a residence permit, you can swap your license to one in French one. The process can be lengthy and requires the official translator.
If you don't speak French however, you can take the theory test by using a translator. You can take the written test as many times as you like and there is no waiting period between attempts. The cost for the regular theory test is EUR30.
Practical test
If you wish to drive a car in France you must pass a theoretical test (known as le Code) and a practical test. You can either take the theory and the practical tests at a driving academy that will schedule your classes and tests, or you can do it on your own. If you choose to become an independent candidate, you'll be required to sign up for a NEPH - Numero Prefectural harmonised Record - on the official website of the government agency ANTS.
The theoretical exam, known as le Code, consists of 40 questions with multiple-choice answer covering topics such as traffic laws, road safety rules and driving rules. It is possible to download free apps and study guides online or purchase a Code de la Route in a bookshop. You can receive an A grade if you score at least 20 points, provided that you don't make any elimination mistakes (such crossing an unmarked line, driving to the left, not observing a stop sign, or not following priority rules).
In the practical test, an examiner will assess your ability to drive under normal traffic conditions in the car you select. The test consists of 25 minutes of driving and lasts for around two hours in total. Additionally, you will be asked to demonstrate your basic knowledge of first aid. The practical test can be repeated up to five times within three years.
As an external candidate, you can bring a tutor to the test however they cannot charge more than the price of a class. However, if you're studying at an accredited driving school, they are able to assign an instructor to accompany you during the practical test. If you fail the test, you may retake it up to five times.
The practical and theoretical tests are both in French. You'll need a high level of fluency. Start learning the language prior to your move to France. The test is difficult for non-French speaking people Therefore, you should be fluent when you take it.
Passing the test
Before taking the test to get their French driving license, prospective drivers must be aware of some important points. Before they can drive in France they must pass the theory and practical exams. In addition, they must have their vehicle insured in France and purchase a pollution label (called a "conduit accompagnee").
The first step is taking the theory test that is also known as le code. The test consists of multiple-choice questions as well as an oral explanation. The second part is taking the practical test, which is a harder test that requires a lot of practice. The examiner will test your knowledge of road rules and what you should do if you encounter an emergency situation like a person who is unconscious or badly injured.
Once you have passed the theory and practical tests, you will receive a document called the certificat of examination du permit de conduire. This document is valid four months, and it can be downloaded onto your tablet or phone. If you are stopped by police, this is the document you'll need to present to them. The word "favorable" will be noted at the end of the document.
You must renew your driver's licence every 15 years. You can do this by filling in an administrative form and paying the fee. You must also provide proof of your address and identity. You can do this via the internet or at the local prefecture office. Enter your file number and your personal code to keep track of the status of your driver's license online.
In addition to the driving rules, it is important to be aware of the French demerit points system. You can lose your driving license if commit a serious crime or accumulate too many points. You may also get your license revoked if you have outstanding fines or involved in a serious accident.
It is also crucial to be aware that France drives on the right side of the road, and that priority is given to traffic coming from the right. Additionally, you must keep in mind that the speed limit on departmental and national roads is 80 km/h. However the speed limit is reduced to 50 km/h for local roads and in cities.
Getting your license
If you've just completed your French driving test or are an expat driver moving to France, getting a license in the country can be a bit of a hassle. There are certain regulations and license requirements that you need to be aware of in order to avoid being pulled over by police or having an accident due to insufficient driving licenses. To avoid any issues, it's best to get an International Driving Permit in advance. This small piece of paper has to be carried on your person when traveling abroad. It can translate your driver's license into a variety of foreign languages. They are cheap ($20) and easy to obtain at your local AAA office, and even car rental companies accept them.
Most expats can exchange their licenses for one with a French one, provided that their country of origin has reciprocal agreements with France. The process can take anywhere from a few weeks up to several months depending on the prefecture's work load. You'll need identification proof, two recent passport photos as well as a medical certificate. two self-addressed envelopes.
If you don't have a valid driver's license or your foreign driving licence has expired, then you will be required to pass a theoretical and a practical test before you are able to obtain an official license. Individuals with disabilities or medical conditions may have to take additional tests.
In the case of the second scenario, a doctor will conduct a test to evaluate your driving abilities. The test will consist of a theory test and a test drive in a parking area and an interview with the examiner.
French drivers must carry their driving license and registration for their vehicle at all times. Drivers in France must also have a policy of insurance for their vehicles and cars. Contact your insurance company to make sure that your policy covers driving in France and is up-to-date.
Getting your license in the country where you have made your new home may seem daunting however with a bit of preparation and the assistance of a driving instructor it will be easy. While you don't need a driving instructor to get your French license, they can assist you in taking care of all the paperwork and scheduling.