Twenty Myths About French copyright Cost: Busted

Wiki Article

The Cost of Obtaining a French copyright: A Comprehensive Guide

Obtaining a copyright in France can be a complex and often pricey process, especially for those who are not acquainted with the system. Whether you are a new homeowner, a foreigner aiming to convert an international license, or a French citizen seeking to restore or change a lost license, understanding the different costs included is vital. This post provides an in-depth breakdown of the expenses related to the French copyright, together with some regularly asked concerns to assist browse the process.

Introduction of the French copyright

In France, the copyright (Permis de Conduire) is issued by the Prefecture and is needed to operate an automobile legally. The procedure to acquire a French copyright differs depending on your scenario, such as whether you are a new student, a skilled driver, or an immigrant with an international license. The costs likewise differ based on these elements.

Costs for New Learners

For people who are new to driving, the process involves a number of steps, each with its own set of expenses:

  1. Learning to Drive

    • Driving School (Auto-école) Fees: The cost of driving lessons is the most substantial expenditure. As of 2023, the typical cost of a driving school plan in France varies from EUR1,200 to EUR2,000, depending on the region and the variety of lessons included. Some driving schools use versatile packages, allowing you to pay as you go or select a set number of lessons.
    • Theory Course: Most driving schools consist of a theory course in their bundles. Nevertheless, if you prefer to study separately, you can purchase theory books or online resources. The cost of these materials generally ranges from EUR20 to EUR100.
    • Theory Test Fee: The cost for the theory test is EUR34.50. You can take the test numerous times, but each effort will incur a new charge.
  2. Practical Driving Test

    • Dry Run Fee: The cost for the useful driving test is EUR101.80. Like the theory test, you can retake the practical test if you fail, but each retake will require an extra cost.
    • Extra Practice: If you require more practice before the test, extra driving lessons can be costly. The typical expense per lesson is around EUR35 to EUR45.
  3. Issuance of the License

    • License Issuance Fee: After passing the useful test, you will need to get the real copyright. The issuance cost is EUR25.20.

Costs for Experienced Drivers with an International License

If you currently have a valid copyright from another country, the procedure of obtaining a French copyright can be more straightforward, however it still includes some expenses:

  1. Application Process

    • Application Fee: The application fee for a French copyright for foreigners with a valid international license is EUR65.90.
    • Medical Certificate: You will require to supply a medical certificate, which can cost in between EUR30 and EUR50, depending on the physician and the region.
    • Translation of Foreign License: If your foreign license is not in French, you will need to have it equated by a licensed translator. The expense of this service can range from EUR20 to EUR50.
  2. Testing Requirements

    • Theory Test: If your foreign license is from a country that has a mutual arrangement with France, you might be exempt from the theory test. Nevertheless, if you are from a nation that does not have such an agreement, you will require to take the theory test, which costs EUR34.50.
    • Dry run: In some cases, you might require to take a useful test too. The cost for this test is EUR101.80.
  3. License Issuance

    • Issuance Fee: Once you have completed the needed tests and provided all required paperwork, the issuance cost for the French copyright is EUR25.20.

Expenses for Renewal or Replacement

If you currently have a French copyright and need to restore or change it, the costs are generally lower:

  1. Renewal

    • Renewal Fee: The renewal charge for a French copyright is EUR25.20. This cost covers the administrative expenses and the production of the new license.
    • Medical Certificate: You will require to provide a medical certificate, which can cost in between EUR30 and EUR50.
  2. Replacement

    • Replacement Fee: If you need to change a lost, stolen, or damaged license, the replacement charge is EUR25.20.
    • Cops Report: If your license has actually been lost or taken, you might require to file a police report, which can cost around EUR20.

Additional Costs to Consider

  1. Driving School Insurance: Many driving schools require you to have insurance coverage while you are finding out. The cost of this insurance coverage can differ, but it usually varies from EUR100 to EUR200 for a year.
  2. Practice Car: If you select to practice driving beyond driving school lessons, you will need to have a car that is correctly insured. The cost of car insurance coverage can be a considerable extra expense.
  3. Roadway Tax (Taxe Routière): While not straight associated to acquiring a copyright, it deserves keeping in mind that you will require to pay roadway tax if you own a car in France. The quantity differs based upon the type and age of the lorry.

Actions to Obtain a French copyright

For new students, the process to get a French copyright typically includes the following actions:

  1. Enroll in a Driving School: Choose a credible driving school (auto-école) and enlist in a driving course.
  2. Complete the Theory Course: Attend the theory classes and get ready for the theory test.
  3. Take the Theory Test: Schedule and take the theory test at the Prefecture. You should pass this test to continue to the dry run.
  4. Complete Driving Lessons: Take the necessary number of driving lessons to prepare for the dry run.
  5. Take the Practical Test: Schedule and take the useful driving test. If you stop working, you can retake the test after a waiting period.
  6. Request the License: Once you pass the dry run, look for the real copyright at the Prefecture.
  7. Get the License: Wait for the license to be issued and sent out to your address.

For knowledgeable chauffeurs with an international license, the procedure might be a little various:

  1. Check Reciprocal Agreements: Verify if your nation has a mutual contract with France, which might simplify the procedure.
  2. Collect Documentation: Collect all needed files, including your valid international license, a medical certificate, and a licensed translation of your license if needed.
  3. Make an application for the License: Submit your application and pay the application fee at the Prefecture.
  4. Take Required Tests: If needed, take the theory and/or dry runs.
  5. Get the License: Wait for the license to be provided and sent to your address.

Often Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How much does a copyright cost in France for a new student?

Q2: What is the expense of converting an international copyright to a French copyright?

Q3: Can I drive in France with an international copyright?

Q4: Are there any discounts offered for driving school fees?

Q5: What occurs if I fail the dry run?

Q6: How long does it require to receive a French copyright after passing the dry run?

Q7: Can I drive with a provisionary license while waiting for my French copyright?

Q8: Is it compulsory to take driving lessons from an expert driving school?

Tips for Saving Money

  1. Choose a Driving School Wisely: Research and compare driving schools in your location to find the one that uses the finest worth for cash. Some schools might provide discount rates or unique bundles.
  2. Study Independently: While many driving schools consist of the theory course in their packages, studying separately can save you some cash on theory products.
  3. Practice with Friends or Family: If you have good friends or household who are already licensed motorists, they can help you practice driving beyond driving school lessons, possibly lowering the variety of lessons you require.
  4. Take the Theory Test Early: Taking the theory test early can assist you focus on the practical aspects of driving, which may decrease the number of driving lessons you require.
  5. Retake Tests Quickly: If you fail a test, retake it as soon as possible to prevent spending for additional lessons or tests.

Getting a French copyright can be an expensive venture, however it is an essential step for anyone who wants to drive legally in France. By comprehending the numerous expenses and steps involved, you can better prepare for the process and potentially conserve cash along the method. Whether you are a new student or an experienced driver, the secret is to pick the best driving school, study diligently, and finish the required tests effectively. With the best approach, you can navigate the system and delight in the liberty of driving in France.


This guide provides an extensive overview of the costs connected with getting a French copyright, from the initial learning stage to the last issuance of the license. By following these steps and ideas, you can make the process as smooth and cost-efficient as possible.

get more info

Report this wiki page