Biometric licence: what changes?
Since 2013, French driving licences are delivered as a credit-card format with a biometric chip. Gone are the old cardboard "pink licences" valid for life. The new licence shows an administrative validity date on side 4 (back).
Validity duration
B, A, A1, A2, AM licences
These "leisure" categories have a 15-year administrative validity in France for licences delivered between 2013 and 2023. Since January 2024, validity has moved to 20 years. Note: this is administrative validity, NOT an expiry of driving rights. The right to drive remains as long as you have points.
C, CE, D, DE licences
Much shorter validity: 5 years up to age 60, then 2 years between 60 and 76, then 1 year after 76. Medical exam mandatory at each renewal.
French licence in Switzerland, Luxembourg, Belgium
If you hold a French licence while residing in these countries, validity depends on the country of residence. Check the local embassy or consulate.
How to renew your licence
On ANTS: simple and free
Free process for renewal at expiry (not for loss or theft). Documents: old licence (to return), e-photo, recent proof of address. Average 2026 delay: 3-5 weeks.
When to start
You can apply up to 6 months before expiry. Do not apply too early or too late: more than a year ahead, the request may be refused.
What if I miss the deadline?
Your licence remains valid to drive in France even if administratively expired, as long as your right to drive is itself not expired (points, suspension, medical). But you can no longer use it as ID, and you may face issues abroad. Renew promptly.
The France Identité digital licence
Launched in late 2023, the licence in the France Identité smartphone app has been accepted at roadside checks since January 2025. Handy for young drivers worried about losing the card. Physical format still required abroad.
For professionals: plan ahead
HGV and passenger drivers must plan medical exam + renewal 2-3 months before expiry to avoid being unable to work legally. Discuss internal procedures with your employer.
Next step
How to get the right support?
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Frequently asked
Your questions on this topic
What is the biometric licence validity period?
15 years for biometric licences issued between 2013 and 2023, 20 years for those issued since 1 January 2024. Important: this is the administrative validity of the document (photo update, civil status), not the driving right which remains valid for life unless points are lost or suspended. Renewal before expiry is mandatory to avoid an 11 EUR fine.
How to renew your biometric licence?
Request on ANTS 1 to 3 months before the expiry date printed on the back of the licence. 4 documents: current licence scanned front and back, proof of residence, ID, approved e-photo. Cost: 25 EUR tax stamp. No medical visit required for classic B licence. 2-month receipt valid, new licence received in 2 to 4 weeks at home.
What happens if my biometric licence is expired?
Driving right remains valid for life: no legal loss, but the document is no longer administratively valid. Risk: 11 EUR fine at a roadside check, and obligation to regularise within 1 month. Possible refusal by rental companies, banks and administrations. Renew on ANTS without waiting for the fine. No additional penalty if the request is pending (receipt).
Does licence validity affect driving rights?
No, in France the driving right is granted for life once the licence is obtained, excluding points loss or judicial penalty. The validity date (15 or 20 years) concerns only the duration of the physical biometric support, like a national ID card. Essential distinction: even with an expired licence, you are legally allowed to drive in France.
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