Driving age in France
Cars (permis B)
- Standard age: 18 years
- Can start driving school at 16
- Theory + practical tests required
Accompanied driving (AAC)
France offers "Apprentissage Anticipe de la Conduite":
- Training starts at 15 years
- Can drive at 17 with registered supervisor
- Must complete 3,000 km minimum
- Lower insurance rates after
- Shorter probationary period (2 years vs 3)
License classes by age
| License | Age | Vehicles |
|---|---|---|
| AM | 14 | Mopeds up to 50cc |
| A1 | 16 | Motorcycles up to 125cc |
| B (AAC) | 17 | Cars (with supervisor) |
| B | 18 | Cars |
| A2 | 18 | Motorcycles up to 35kW |
| A | 24 | Unlimited motorcycles |
| C | 21 | Trucks |
| D | 24 | Buses |
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Getting a French license
Process
- Register at driving school (auto-ecole)
- Pass theory test (Code de la Route) - 40 questions
- Complete driving lessons (20 hours minimum)
- Pass practical test
Costs
- Driving school package: €1,200-€2,000
- Individual lessons: €40-€60/hour
- Theory test: €30
- Practical test: €30
Probationary period (permis probatoire)
- 3 years for standard license
- 2 years for AAC graduates
- Start with 6 points (full license = 12)
- Lower speed limits apply
- Lower alcohol limit (0.2 g/L)
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