Twenty Myths About French Driving License: Busted
How to Get a French Driving License
Before you begin driving in France it is essential to know the driving regulations. It is also important to know the requirements for a driving licence.
It could take between a few weeks to a couple of months to get your French driving license. It comes in the form of a pink credit card and is valid for 15 years.
Rules of the Road
With its vast stretches of breathtaking countryside and lively cities, France is a popular destination for road trips. However, it is important to be aware of the rules of the road to avoid getting into trouble with the police. You must always carry your driving licence and proof of insurance. A driving permit is also useful to get around.
The traffic in France is slower and there are many more pedestrians. It is therefore essential to drive with caution and be on the lookout for drivers who turn left in front of you. Also, it's not recommended to drive after having consumed alcohol. You could be fined up to 135 euros and lose points on your license If you are caught driving under the impaired.
It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving in France. You may only use hands-free calls if you are wearing a headset that is integrated into your helmet. If you are stopped by police, you could be penalized for texting or licencefrancexpress.com speaking while driving. Also, you must wear a seat belt in both the front and back seats. If you have children younger than the age of 10 in your vehicle, they must be placed in the back seat and secured by a seat belt or an approved child seat.
You should also carry a copy your passport at all times. This is legally required and will be scrutinized by the police if you are stopped for any reason.
Another important thing to keep in mind is that speed limits on French roads vary by kind of road. For example, Autoroutes have a higher speed limit than other roads. You can pay the tolls in cash or with a credit card.
The most important rule in France is priorite a droite, which means that any vehicle approaching from your right has the right to have the right of way. This is the case regardless of whether the vehicle is connecting to a busy highway via a tiny village road. This is especially important on country lanes that are narrow which are where cars usually pass each other in middle of the road.
Passing the test
Once you've completed the written exam then it's time to take the driving test in the real world. It's a more difficult test than the theory test and you will need to practice a lot before you pass. You should find a driving instructor who will provide you with a variety of behind-the-wheel sessions before the test. You should also make sure you have at the very least third-party liability insurance on your vehicle prior to driving in France.
You can sign up for the test by visiting the ANTS website and entering your NEPH number (your application number) and a photo ID. The French driving license photo must be full-face and in color, unlike the American passport photo. You can request a translator if are not a native English speaker. You should request this at a minimum two days prior to your test.
After you've taken the driving test, you will receive an CEPC, which is your driver's licence examination certificate. You'll need to present this to your local prefecture whenever you apply for an French license. Then, you'll be able start driving in France.
If you fail the driving test, you'll have to wait between two and 45 days before attempting to retake it. There's no limit to the number of times you can retake the driving test however, it's advised to wait until you feel ready to retake it.
A driver's license is a must for living in France. If you plan to live in France for more than one year, you'll require a driving license before you can drive on French roads. While some Americans decide to disregard this requirement and continue to drive on their US license after the one-year mark, this could lead to serious accidents and fines.
Fortunately there are some states that have reciprocal agreements with France. Kentucky, for instance, allows its citizens the option to exchange their U.S. driver's licenses for French ones, without having to undergo the lengthy and exhausting process of passing a test written as well as a practical driving test. Other Americans are required to go through a series of hoops to get their French licenses.
Inquiring for an official license
If you are an expat or a foreign citizen that has an active driver's license from the country with which France has an agreement of reciprocity You can exchange your licence to a French one without having to pass the driving test. However, there are certain rules that you need to be aware of. First, ensure that your driver's licence was issued while you were legally living in the country where it was issued. Then, you must submit an application to obtain a new licence. The form can be found online. Follow the next step after selecting Renewal of Driver's License.
Select the reason you need the licence and then fill in your driver's details. If you are a licensed driver B, you are able to drive vehicles up to 3,5 tons and with the maximum of nine passengers. You can also choose to tow a trailer that is not heavier than the vehicle you are driving.
The next step is to submit the application to the prefecture that is in your area. You must complete all the required details and attach copies your identity documents. Make sure you include your passport or other photo ID along with a proof of address. If required, you will also be required to provide a medical certification. Licenses for categories A and B are valid for 15 years while licences for categories C, CE, and DL are valid for five years.
In some cases, it is possible to obtain an French licence in just several months. This is especially applicable to students from abroad who are enrolled at the French university. Students who aren't enrolled at an French university can expect to wait much longer for their licence to be granted.
If you're looking to learn to drive in France should think about taking a driving course at a school that offers English. The majority of driving schools in Paris offer courses in English however this is not the case everywhere. If you live outside of the capital, you can contact your local prefecture to ask whether driving schools offer classes in English.
Driving in France
It is crucial to observe the rules of the road and the proper manner of driving in France. A valid driver's license as well as third-party insurance for cars are required. Taking driving lessons from a professional driving instructor is an excellent way to learn the language and rules of the road. You should also make sure that your vehicle is properly maintained and fueled before your trip. Be aware of the different speed limits on various kinds of French roads.
In France traffic laws are strictly adhered to. The French have a point-based system to punish traffic offenses. New drivers begin with six points and must accumulate 12 points before their probationary period is over. If you are cited for a traffic violation the points will be taken away and the fine will vary depending on the category of the violation.
The theory test is the first step towards getting an French driving license. The test consists of 40 questions on the rules of driving and traffic safety. The second phase is the practical part of the exam. This involves a minimum of 20 hours of driving with an instructor. If you fail the practical portion of the test, you must wait a year before trying again.
To obtain a French driving license you must be at least 18 years old and pass a medical examination. People who suffer from disabilities or health issues are required to undergo a special medical exam.
If you're from a non-EU or EEA country, you will require an International Driving Permit in addition to your regular license. The IDP includes a driver's photo and a translation in 12 languages of their driving licence. It is available at the airport or at a car rental company.
Driving in France can be challenging however, it is possible to drive without any problems with a foreign license if you have an IDP. It is crucial to know the rules of driving and take some lessons before you attempt to drive on your own.