Foreign driving licence in France: how to exchange your licence?

Which foreign licences can be exchanged in France?

France has concluded licence exchange agreements with many countries. Licences from EU member states are automatically recognised and exchangeable without an exam. For non-EU countries, it depends on bilateral agreements: around fifty countries are covered, including the United States, Canada, Morocco, Tunisia and Japan.

When must you exchange your licence?

If you become a habitual resident of France, you must exchange your licence within one year of your first vehicle registration in France or of establishing your residence in France. For EU licences, you can drive in France with your original licence for as long as it is valid.

The licence exchange procedure

For EU/EEA licences

Exchanging an EU licence for a French one is done online via the ANTS (Agence Nationale des Titres Sécurisés). You provide your original licence, proof of identity, proof of address and a photo. Your French licence is posted to you within a few weeks.

For non-EU licences

For non-EU licences, the procedure is similar but may involve an authenticity check with the issuing country's authorities. In some cases, a theory or practical test may be required if the licence does not meet the necessary conditions.

What if your licence cannot be exchanged?

If your foreign licence is not exchangeable (no bilateral agreement, expired licence, residence exceeding 1 year before the application), you must retake the French driving test in full. Your driving experience will nonetheless be taken into account by driving schools when determining the number of training hours.

What does a licence exchange cost?

The exchange itself is inexpensive (around €25 in stamp duty). If you need to retake the test, costs are those of standard training (€1,200 to €2,500), but often reduced given your prior experience.

How to get the right guidance?

DevisPermis.fr directs you to driving schools specialising in welcoming foreign drivers and handling licence exchanges. Fill in the form selecting 'Foreign Licence' to receive contact details for partner schools in your department.