Driving License in νλμ€ for Expats
Complete guide for foreigners getting a driving license
Quick Answer: Can you drive in νλμ€ with a foreign license?
Yes, for 1 year from residency. After that, you must convert to a νλμ€ license. The official test is only in French, but you can practice in English with AutoviaTest.
Key Facts: νλμ€ Driving License for Expats
| Test Authority | ANTS (Agence Nationale des Titres SΓ©curisΓ©s) |
| 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 | 100-200β¬ (exchange) or 1,000-2,000β¬ (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.
π«π· Practice νλμ€ Test in EnglishEligibility by Nationality
πͺπΊ EU/EEA Citizens
EU licenses valid indefinitely. Optional exchange available.
πΊπΈπ¬π§ US/UK Citizens
No agreement with USA. UK: Temporary measures post-Brexit, check current status.
π Other Non-EU Citizens
Must exchange within 1 year if from a country with agreement. Otherwise, full test required.
π Students
Can use foreign license during studies. Exchange required if staying permanently.
License Exchange Agreements
β Direct Exchange (No Test Required)
EU/EEA countries, Switzerland, Monaco, Andorra, Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, Senegal, CΓ΄te d'Ivoire, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Lebanon, Turkey, Cambodia, Canada (Quebec), Australia (some states), UK (transitional)
β No Agreement (Full Test Required)
USA (except for short visits), most of Latin America
Required Documents
- βValid passport
- βTitre de sΓ©jour (residence permit)
- βProof of address (justificatif de domicile)
- βOriginal foreign license
- βOfficial translation (by sworn translator)
- βPassport photos (format required)
- βCERFA application form
Costs Breakdown
| Conversion/Exam Fee | 25β¬ |
| Medical Exam | Not required for conversion |
| Translation | 50-100β¬ |
| Total Estimated | 100-200β¬ (exchange) or 1,000-2,000β¬ (full test) |
Tips for Expats in νλμ€
- π‘Official test is ONLY in French - practice in English first
- π‘Processing times currently very long (3-6 months)
- π‘Sworn translator (traducteur assermentΓ©) required
- π‘Online application through ANTS website mandatory
- π‘Consider auto-Γ©cole 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 νλμ€ driving test in English.