International driving licence: 2026 updated information

A French driving licence allows you to drive freely in the European Union and the European Economic Area. Outside these areas, some countries require you to have an international driving licence.


Mis à jour le September 8, 2026

Première publication le September 8, 2026

Temps de lecture : 5 minutes

Information

This international driving licence is an official translation of your national driving licence and must always be accompanied by your national licence.

Before travelling anywhere outside the EU, it is advisable to check the regulations of the country of destination with its consular services.

A modernized procedure as of March 2026

As of 3 March 2026, international driving licences will be issued and delivered by a service provider appointed by the French State. This new procedure optimizes the creation and delivery time when applying for an international driving licence.

 

Costs related to this service will be borne by the applicant and are total €7.25 for 2026 and must be paid online.

The application can only be made online on the France Titres - ANTS site. Applicants must provide:

  • proof of identity;
  • proof of address less than 6 months old;
  • their driving licence that is still valid;
  • as well as an e-photo code less than 6 months old.

Additional supporting documents may be required, depending on the applicant's nationality, in particular proof of residence in France for at least six months for EU, Swiss and Monaco nationals, or a residence permit for nationals from outside the EU.

The time required to issue an international driving licence varies depending on the time of year and the production process. Some applications may take longer to process depending on the circumstances and the checks to be carried out. This is why we advise you to submit your application at least one month before travelling.
 

Application from abroad

Anyone who is living for a temporary period abroad may also submit their application online, provided they have an e-photo code less than 6 months old issued by an authorized professional or an approved photo booth in France.

The licence is sent to a designated third party in France, responsible for forwarding it abroad.
 

Term of validity

The international driving licence is valid for three years, or for the remaining period of validity of the French driving licence if it is less. It has no legal value in France and can only be used abroad if accompanied by your French driving licence.

Handwritten international driving licences that have already been issued will remain valid until their expiry date, even after the new printed version comes into use in 2026.

Sur le même thème

Aucun article n'a de tag en commun avec l'article courant

Partager la page

Veuillez autoriser le dépôt de cookies pour partager sur les réseaux sociaux Facebook, X et LinkedIn.