Driving License in France for Expats
Complete guide for foreigners getting a driving license
Quick Answer: Can you drive in France with a foreign license?
Yes, for 1 year from residency. After that, you must convert to a France license. The official test is only in French, but you can practice in English with AutoviaTest.
Key Facts: France Driving License for Expats
| Test Authority | ANTS (Agence Nationale des Titres Sécurisés) |
| Official Test Language | French |
| Grace Period | 1 year from residency |
| Theory Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Practical Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Medical Exam | Not required |
| Total Cost | 100-200€ (exchange) or 1,000-2,000€ (full test) |
| Processing Time | 2-6 months (currently experiencing delays) |
Official test only in French?
Practice in English first with AutoviaTest. Learn all the rules and questions before taking the official test.
🇫🇷 Practice France Test in EnglishEligibility by Nationality
🇪🇺 EU/EEA Citizens
EU licenses valid indefinitely. Optional exchange available.
🇺🇸🇬🇧 US/UK Citizens
No agreement with USA. UK: Temporary measures post-Brexit, check current status.
🌍 Other Non-EU Citizens
Must exchange within 1 year if from a country with agreement. Otherwise, full test required.
🎓 Students
Can use foreign license during studies. Exchange required if staying permanently.
License Exchange Agreements
✅ Direct Exchange (No Test Required)
EU/EEA countries, Switzerland, Monaco, Andorra, Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Senegal, Côte d'Ivoire, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Lebanon, Turkey, Cambodia, Canada (Quebec), Australia (some states), UK (transitional)
❌ No Agreement (Full Test Required)
USA (except for short visits), most of Latin America
Required Documents
- ✓Valid passport
- ✓Titre de séjour (residence permit)
- ✓Proof of address (justificatif de domicile)
- ✓Original foreign license
- ✓Official translation (by sworn translator)
- ✓Passport photos (format required)
- ✓CERFA application form
Costs Breakdown
| Conversion/Exam Fee | 25€ |
| Medical Exam | Not required for conversion |
| Translation | 50-100€ |
| Total Estimated | 100-200€ (exchange) or 1,000-2,000€ (full test) |
Tips for Expats in France
- 💡Official test is ONLY in French - practice in English first
- 💡Processing times currently very long (3-6 months)
- 💡Sworn translator (traducteur assermenté) required
- 💡Online application through ANTS website mandatory
- 💡Consider auto-école packages for English speakers
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the French driving test in English?
How long can I drive in France with my foreign license?
Can I exchange my US license for a French one?
Why is the process taking so long?
Ready to Practice?
Start practicing for your France driving test in English.