To get (or not-to-get) a French Driver's license...

Hey Dan-

I am from US also, and am going through the process now. My status is a little different than yours in that I have a home here; in process of establishing full time residency; and already obtained my Visitor Visa allowing me to stay long term without leaving UE every 3 months. The visa just requires annual renewal. I must obtain a French DL within 1 year anniversary of obtaining the visa.

As you stated, if you miss the anniversary date it is mandatory to take the exams (in French), sometimes lessons and is not cheap. Depending on what you drive, if you take the test in a vehicle with auto transmission your license will be restricted to only driving an automatic transmission vehicle. If you do not get the French license, your car is subject to confiscation, and I read that your insurance is not valid if you are in an accident without a valid license.  You may be personally responsible for all cost. If it is in a rental you are really in deep...

Difficulty now is getting electronic copies of the backup documentation, e-photo (passport photo and certified e-signature) to apply for the license online. This process is now mandatory since end of last year, in lieu of going to the counter at the prefecture. It is probably faster overall, but is just a bit of a challenge since not many are familiar with the new process if you need help from your friends/neighbors (as I do).

Another issue is regarding your existing state license. I am from Texas so they have an established agreement already with France for reciprocal license exchange. It is best to get an International Drivers License from AAA while in the US (can't be done from France). If you do not have this, you are required to get an official certified translation of your license into French. Yes, it seems silly since no translation for your name, address, license number or even "restrictions", since the word is the same in French. Regardless, the translation must be by a sworn translator, sealed and is recorded with the court...my cost was 70 euros and must drive 60 miles from my village to pick it up. An Intl DL from AAA is only about $25, and is a benefit if you ever need to rent a vehicle from someone other than the typical American rental companies. I obtained one before coming to France knowing this requirement, but now here I am a year later and can't find it.. go figure. Was in the car forever, but not now of course.

Well a book of info, so hope this helps.  Feel free to followup if there are questions, or want to know more details of requirements. You can also check these out:

https://permisdeconduire.ants.gouv.fr/https://www.service-public.fr/particuli … oits/F1460https://www.service-public.fr/particuli … its/F12956https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/ … 01f1c2.pdf