If you are planning on taking a romantic road trip through the famous city of love, or you intend to cruise the roads while you’re there, this read is definitely for you. We will take you through what an International Driving Permit for France is, letting you know why it is important to have one when driving in France, and the steps involved in obtaining one.
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What is an International Driving Permit?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) or International Driving Licence is a document that allows you to drive a private motor vehicle in a foreign country without the need for further tests or applications. It is essentially a translation of your home country’s driver’s licence into the language of the country you are visiting, making it easier for the officials in that country to interpret the information. For example, if your driver’s licence is in English and you are traveling to France, the IDP provides a French translation so local authorities can easily verify your credentials. The IDP is not a standalone document but is used in conjunction with your valid driver’s licence from your home country.
An IDP is required in over 140 countries of the world, and you will need a different one for every country you visit. Although it is not a universally recognized document, it is internationally acknowledged. However, the recognition of the IDP depends on the specific agreements and regulations of each country you visit.
Who needs an International Driving Permit in France?
In France, an IDP is referred to as a Permis de Conduire International (PCI). The primary purpose is that it serves as a temporary translated driver’s licence. If you intend to drive in France, you will need a Permis de Conduire International as a tourist or resident if:
Your driver’s licence isn’t in French.
Your driver’s licence wasn’t issued by an EU member state, the United Kingdom, or Switzerland.
In this case, you will need to get a certified translation of your licence or a Permis de Conduire International.
Note: The French international driving permit follows the rules of the 1949 and 1968 UN Conventions and is essential for legal driving, serving as a translation of your local licence.
Driving in France with a European licence
You can drive in France with a foreign licence issued by a European Union or European Economic Area member country if:
You are at least 18 years old.
Your driver’s licence has not expired.
Your licence complies with any medical or vehicular requirements you may have, such as wearing the stipulated glasses or adhering to vehicle modifications, etc.
Your driver’s licence is not under any restriction, suspension, or cancellation.
When you got your licence in France, there should have been no legal restrictions or measures that prevented you from applying for or receiving it.
These rules apply to driving licences from EU countries and across Europe, including Ireland, where similar regulations are in place for visitors and residents.
If you meet these conditions, you can drive in France with your European Union licence as long as it remains valid. Otherwise, you do not have the right to drive in France with your European licence. You must wait to meet all the conditions or renew your licence in the event of a cancellation. You can also ask to exchange your European licence for a French licence.
If your European licence was obtained by exchange, the country of issue must practice reciprocal licence exchange with France. However, if it is not exchangeable for a French licence, you can use it in France for one year from the date of acquiring your residence.
To continue driving in France beyond this period, you must pass the French driving licence exam.
However, this is not an obligation unless:
You are applying for a new licence category (extension).
You commit an offense in France resulting in a loss of points, restriction, suspension, or cancellation of your licence.
Note: For UK licences post-Brexit, a UK photocard driving licence issued in the UK is accepted in France without an IDP or translation during a short visit. If you have a paper driving licence, you’ll need to update it to a photocard driving licence or get an IDP. Additionally, original UK paper and photocard driving licences issued after 2021 also have a 1‑year validity limit in France.
Validity and recognition of International Driving Permits
International driving permits (IDPs) are widely recognised in over 140 countries, including many popular destinations such as Canada, the United States, and most European countries. The validity period of an IDP typically ranges from one to three years, depending on the issuing country and the type of permit. Before you travel, it’s important to check both the expiration date of your IDP and whether it is recognised in the countries you plan to visit.
IDPs are usually issued by a local authority or automobile association in your home country. The process for obtaining an IDP generally involves providing proof of identity, proof of residency, and a valid driving licence. Some countries may have additional requirements or restrictions, so it’s essential to research the specific rules for each country on your itinerary. Ensuring your international driving permit is valid and recognized will help you avoid any issues with local authorities and make your driving experience abroad much smoother.
Benefits of having an International Driving Permit
Having an international driving permit can help you avoid fines or complications that may arise if you are found driving without the proper documentation. Many car hire companies require an IDP before allowing you to rent a vehicle, so having one on hand streamlines the hiring process and ensures you won’t be turned away at the counter.
Additionally, an IDP can be a lifesaver in emergencies, as it provides a recognised form of identification that can be quickly understood by police or emergency services.
Overall, an international driving permit gives you peace of mind, knowing you are prepared and compliant with local regulations, and allows you to enjoy your trip abroad with confidence.
How can I get an International Driving Permit for driving in France?
IDPs are issued by your resident country and not France, so if you want to drive in France, you must apply for one before leaving your country. To get the permit, you need to do the following:
Visit the International Driver’s Permit website and search for your country. You will be redirected to the authority responsible for issuing IDPs in your country.
Fill out the online application form on your country’s IDP website.
Confirm the documents related to your country and upload them. These usually include:
Passport photos
Identity documents
Your valid driver’s licence
Proof of address
Pay the stipulated fee. The fee for an international driving permit for France varies by country. In America and Canada, it ranges between $20-$25, in the UK it is £5.50, and in Nigeria, it is between $54.99-$69.99.
Once you have followed all the steps and paid the fees, you should be issued your International Driver’s licence. Issuance of the licence can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the process in your country.
Note that you must be at least 18 years old to drive in France, even if the driving age in your country is younger. Having an International Driving Permit for France will not automatically permit you to drive.
How to translate my Foreign Driver’s Licence
If the driver’s licence issued in your country is not in French, a translated version of your driver’s licence can be used in place of an International Driver’s Permit. To get a French driver’s licence translation, you need to get a good sworn translator who specialises in translating driving permits and licences for France.
A certified translation is a translation of a document that is accompanied by a signed statement from an authorized translator or translation agency affirming that the translation is accurate and complete. This statement, often called a certification or affidavit of accuracy, attests to the authenticity and reliability of the translation.
Translayte offers access to certified translators who are qualified and sworn in by their regional Court of Appeal in France. Our turnarounds are fast, our prices are attractive, and our customer service is top-notch.
Our driver’s licence certified translations are accepted by the French Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Civil Registration Office, OFII, and other institutions, such as Universities, Banks, Local authorities, and Courts.
To get a certified translation, take the following easy steps:
Visit the Translayte website.
Click on "Order Certified Translation".
Select "Certified Translation", select the target and source language, and your preferred turnaround time.
Upload your driver's licence and any other documents you would like to translate. Ensure the file has been named correctly.
Select either the Standard, Specialist, or Professional translation services, based on your needs and budget.
Specify if you want a "notarised translation" and any other specifications you prefer for your document.
Place your order and wait for your translation to be completed. Your translation will be delivered to you either by email or by post on or before the stipulated time
It’s that easy! Give it a try now.
Road Safety and Regulations in France
When driving in France, you need to familiarise yourself with the country’s road safety rules and regulations. France enforces strict speed limits, clear traffic signs, and well-defined right-of-way rules to keep all road users safe. The French driving system operates on a points-based licence, meaning that violations such as speeding, running red lights, or using a mobile phone while driving can result in fines, loss of points, or even suspension of your driving licence.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers, and the use of mobile phones without a hands-free system is strictly prohibited. Additionally, every vehicle must carry certain safety equipment, such as a reflective vest and warning triangle, in case of breakdowns. Third-party liability insurance is compulsory for all vehicles in France, so make sure your car is properly insured before you hit the road. Regular vehicle maintenance is also important; ensure your tires, brakes, and lights are in good working order to avoid any issues with the authorities and to keep your journey safe.
Insurance and Driving Abroad
Before driving abroad, review your car insurance policy to ensure you have adequate coverage for international driving. Many standard insurance policies do not automatically extend to driving in a foreign country, so you may need to arrange additional coverage. In many countries, including France, at least third-party liability insurance is required by law, and you may be asked to provide proof of insurance, such as a green card, when driving across borders.
If you’re renting a car abroad, check with the hire company about their insurance requirements and what is included in your rental agreement. It’s also wise to consider extra coverage, such as collision or comprehensive insurance, for added peace of mind. Always keep your driving licence, insurance documents, vehicle registration, and any required permits in the car while driving. Being prepared with the right documents and insurance will help you avoid fines, ensure you’re protected in case of an accident, and make your international driving experience as smooth as possible.
