Booked your accommodation, packed your suitcase, prepared your identity card and passport, and you can start your holiday abroad. Your driver’s license also accompanies you in your luggage because you have decided to explore the country or countries behind the wheel of your car or a rental car. Final check: can you travel outside France, in Europe or elsewhere with your only sesame? We’re sorry to disappoint you, but depending on your destination, that might be the case You need an international driver’s license.

The first thing you should know is that the French driver’s license, which has been issued in “credit card format” since 2013, complies with European and international law, according to the service-public website. It is therefore enough to drive a car in all countries of the European Union and the European Economic Area, the United Kingdom and Switzerland, as well as Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, Senegal, Côte-d’Ivoire, Togo, Jamaica , Seychelles, Canada , Albania, Costa Rica etc.

Travel abroad subject to conditions

However, the French driving license is accepted in certain countries under certain conditions: it must be present accompanied by a translation or used for short periods of time usually no longer than 30 days and/or that the stay lasts a maximum of three or six months, depending on the country. However, obtaining an international permit is required or strongly recommended in some areas. The rules actually differ depending on the area visited. Some car rental companies also make their contribution with inquiries tailored to them.

For example, while in the United States the French driver’s license is generally accepted for three months, driver’s license regulations are a state responsibility. There are different situations: full or limited recognition of the international driver’s license to which the original title (French driver’s license) must be added, obligation or non-issuance of a local driver’s license, residence conditions, the need to take an exam in certain states, etc.

In South Africa, the sesame issued in France can only be recognized if it has been translated by the consulate. The same situation exists in Japan, Australia and New Zealand, where permits must be written entirely in English or the local language.

In Benin, Bolivia, Egypt, Indonesia, etc., the international driver’s license is simply mandatory.

Road Safety has listed the steps to follow from country to country on its website. However, it is imperative to find out about the rules in force in the area where you will be spending even a few days. You can contact the French embassies and consulates or the local vehicle registration service. Also, remember to ask the landlord for any documents you need, as some companies are more restrictive than others.

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Apply for your international driving license 6 months in advance

If you need an international permit and live in France, you must pre-apply online on the National Agency for Secure Documents (ANTS) website. Several receipts will be requested directly from you, such as: proof of identity, proof of residence or your French driving license before further documents are sent by post to the Center of Expertise and Resources for Securities (Cert) in Cherbourg or to the Paris Police Prefecture 15 days (certificate of submission of online application, passport photo, envelope ready for mailing, etc.).

But beware, The delivery times are extremely long At the moment. It is highly recommended to start the process six months before leaving for vacation. Only professional emergencies have priority.

Last point: make sure you have your French driver’s license when you go on holiday abroad, otherwise the international driver’s license is of no value!

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