Updated April 22, 2026
Driving License in France for Expats
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
- Processing Time
- 2-6 months (currently experiencing delays)
- 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)
Eligibility by Nationality
EU/EEA Citizens
EU licenses valid indefinitely. Optional exchange available.
US/UK Citizens
No agreement with USA. UK: Exchange agreement established post-Brexit for UK licenses held before 2021.
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.
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)
License Exchange Agreements
Direct Exchange (No Test Required) · 30
License Exchange Agreements
Direct Exchange (No Test Required) · 30
EU/EEA countriesSwitzerlandMonacoAndorraUKAlgeriaMoroccoTunisiaSenegalCôte d'IvoireBeninBurkina FasoCameroonCentral African RepublicCongoGabonMadagascarMaliMauritaniaNigerTogoJapanSouth KoreaSingaporeTaiwanLebanonTurkeyCambodiaCanada (Quebec)Australia (some states)
No Agreement (Full Test Required): USA, most of Latin America, China, India - must take full tests
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
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the French driving test in English?
No, the official Code de la Route test is only in French. However, you can practice with AutoviaTest in English to learn all rules before taking the French test.
How long can I drive in France with my foreign license?
If you're from a country with an exchange agreement, you have 1 year from establishing residency to exchange your license. Without an agreement, you should start the process immediately.
Can I exchange my US license for a French one?
No, there is no bilateral agreement between the USA and France. Americans must take both the theory test (in French) and practical test.
Why is the process taking so long?
France has been experiencing significant delays in processing license exchanges. Start your application as early as possible and consider getting an attestation that you've applied.