Guide To French Driving License: The Intermediate Guide To French Driving License
How to Get a French Driving License
It's important that you understand the driving rules of France before you begin driving. You should also know the requirements to obtain a driving license.
Depending on the prefecture, it may take a few weeks or a few months to obtain your French driving license. It comes in the form of a pink credit card and is valid for 15 years.
Rules of the road
France is a well-loved travel destination due to its stunning countryside and vibrant cityscapes. To avoid any issues with the police, it's important to be aware of the rules of driving. It is crucial to keep a valid driving licence and insurance documents with you at all time. A driving permit is also essential to travel.
Traffic in France moves a lot slower than in the United States, and there are more pedestrians on streets. This means that it is essential to drive defensively and keep an eye out for drivers turning left in front of you. It is also not advised to drive after having consumed alcohol. If you are caught driving under the influence you could be punished up to 135 euros or lose points on your license.
It is illegal to use a mobile while driving in France. You can only make phone calls hands-free in the event that your helmet is equipped with an integrated headset. If you are stopped by the police, you may be penalized for texting or talking while driving. Additionally, you must wear an appropriate seat belt in the rear and front seats. If you have children younger than 10 years old in your vehicle, they must be seated in the back and secured by an approved seat belt or approved child seat.
You must also keep a copy of your passport at all times. This is a requirement of the law and will be checked in the event of a stop for any reason.
Another thing to keep in mind is that speed limits on French roads differ based on the type of road. For instance, Autoroutes have a higher speed limit than other roads. There are also tolls for driving on these roads that can be paid with cash or a credit card.
The most important rule in France is to prioritize a straight, which means that any vehicle coming from your right has the right of way. This is true even if they're joining the busy highway from a small village track. This is especially true when driving on narrow country roads which are where cars usually are able to pass each other in the 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. This is a more difficult test than the theory test and you'll have to do a lot of practice before passing. You should find a driving instructor who will provide you with a variety of driving lessons prior to the test. It is also important to ensure that you have at minimum third-party liability car insurance before attempting to drive in France.
You can sign up for the written test by going to the ANTS website and entering your NEPH (your application number) along with a photo ID. The French driving license photo must be full-face and in color unlike the American passport photo. If you're not a native French speaker you can request a translator for your exam. You should request this at the very least two days prior to the date of the test.
After passing the driving test, you will receive a 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 your driving test, it will take between two and forty-five days to allow you to take the test again. There's no limit to the number of times you may take the test again however, it's advised to wait until you are at ease enough to retake the test.
A driver's license is a necessity to live in France. If you're an ex-pat who plans on living in France for more than a year, you'll need to obtain a license before you can legally drive on the country's roads. Some Americans do not adhere to this requirement and continue to drive on their US license even after they reach the one-year mark. This could result in serious accidents or even fines.
Fortunately, a few states have a an agreement of reciprocity with France. Kentucky, for example, allows its citizens to swap their U.S. drivers' licenses for French ones without undergoing the long, drawn-out process of taking a written test and passing a practical driving test. Certain Americans have to undergo a lengthy process to obtain their French licenses.
How to obtain a license
If you are an expat or a foreign national who has an active driver's license from a country with which France has an agreement of reciprocity You can exchange your licence for a French one without having to pass the driving test. However, there are some rules that you need to know. Make sure you have a valid driver's license. Then, you need to fill out an application for a new licence. The form is available online. Select the next step after selecting Renewal of Driver's License.
Enter your details and select the reason you require a licence. If you're a licensed driver B, for example you can drive vehicles that are up to 3,5 tons in weight and that have a capacity of nine or less. You'll also be able 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 in your area. You must complete all of the required information, and include copies of your identity documents. Make sure you include your passport, or any other photo ID, and the proof of address. If necessary, you will be required to submit an official medical certificate. The licences for the categories A and B last 15 years. The licences for categories C, CE, DL, and D are valid for five years.
In certain cases it is possible to get a French license in several months. This is particularly the case for foreign students who are enrolled in a French University. Students who aren't at an French university can expect to wait longer to be granted.
Anyone who wants to learn how to drive in France should think about taking a driving course at a school that is able to teach English. Many schools in Paris offer English classes, but not all. Those who live outside of the capital should contact their local prefecture and ask if there is a driving school that offers lessons in English.
Driving in France
When driving in France it is essential to follow the rules of the road and adhere to proper etiquette. 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 method of learning the language and rules of the road. You should also make sure that your vehicle is properly maintained and filled with fuel prior to your journey. You should also be aware of the various speed limits on various types of French roads.
In France, traffic laws are strictly followed. The French have a point-based system to punish traffic violations. New drivers start with six points, and must earn twelve points before their probationary period is over. If you are ticketed for a traffic violation, your points are withdrawn. The amount of fine is determined by the type of the violation.
The theory test is the first step towards getting an French driving license. This exam consists of 40 questions that examine the rules of the road and traffic safety. The practical part of the test is the next step. This requires at least twenty hours of accompanied driving under the supervision of an instructor. If you fail the practical portion of the test, you will have to wait a year before trying again.
For permis d driving licence you must be 18 years old and pass a medical examination. Those with disabilities and health problems must undergo a medical exam.
If you are from a country outside of the EU or EEA, you must have an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your regular driving license. An IDP contains a photo of the driver and an official translation of their driving licence in a dozen different languages. It can be obtained at the airport or from a car rental company.
Driving in France isn't easy, but you can drive legally with a foreign license provided you have an IDP. It is crucial to know the driving rules in France and to take some driving lessons before attempting to drive on your own.