France
International Driver's License for
France
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Apply online in 2 minutes — Digital copy in 8 minutesApply in 2 minutes — Receive in 8 minutes
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Printed booklet shipped worldwide — Free ID card includedWorldwide shipping — Free ID card included
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Valid in 175+ countries — Translated into 12 languagesValid in 175+ countries — 12 Translations
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Free replacements if lost or damagedFree replacements if lost or damaged
Do You Need an IDP in France?
Whether you need an International Driving Permit in France depends on who you are and how long you are staying.
Last updated:
| Driver type | IDP needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist or short-term visitor | Recommended | Strongly recommended for all visitors; often required when your license is not in the local language. |
| Rental car driver | Often required | Many rental agencies ask for an IDP alongside a foreign license at pickup. |
| Long-term resident | Not sufficient | After establishing residency you will usually need a local driver's license. |
| Local license holder traveling abroad | Recommended | Carry an IDL with your national license when driving in most foreign countries. |
Rules vary by region — see the FAQ below for local requirements and traffic laws.
Documents you need
- A valid driver's license from your home country
- A passport-style photo — a phone photo is accepted
- No driving test and no DMV visit required
You do not need to be a citizen or resident to apply.
How it works
- Complete the online application — it takes about 2 minutes
- Upload your driver's license and photo
- Receive your digital IDL in about 8 minutes; the printed booklet ships worldwide
International Driver's License Information & Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need an International Driver's License in France?
France asks foreign visitors to present an International Driver's License together with their valid home country license when driving. In France the IDL serves as an official translation of your domestic license, which helps with police checks and car rental companies. You can apply for your International Driver's License online through E-ITA and get your documents within minutes.
What is an IDL/IDP, and how is it used in France?
An International Driver's License (IDL) or International Driving Permit (IDP) is a booklet that translates your national license into several languages. In France it is never used on its own — you carry it with your original license, and only the two together let you drive legally. French police and rental staff check both.
Which side of the road do people drive on in France?
People drive on the right-hand side of the road in France. Be mindful of the priorité à droite rule at some junctions, where traffic joining from the right may have priority, and take care in busy roundabouts and city centres.
What are the main traffic laws for drivers in France?
* People drive on the right side of the road.
* The minimum age to drive a car is 18 years old. The minimum age to rent a car is 18 years old.
* France does have a national seat belt law. We recommend always wearing a seat belt if it is available.
* France does have a national law prohibiting mobile phone use while driving. Using a hands-free device is permitted.
* France does have a national law requiring the use of helmets when on motorcycle or scooter. This applies to both drivers and passengers.
* Legal Blood Alcohol Content Level: 0.05%. Do not drink and drive.
* The maximum driving speed is 50 km/h (31 miles/hour) in urban areas and 90 km/h (55 miles/hour) in rural areas.
What is the drink-driving limit in France?
France enforces a legal Blood Alcohol Content limit of 0.05%, with a lower threshold for newly qualified drivers. Enforcement is common, so the safest choice is to avoid alcohol altogether when you plan to drive.
What are the speed limits in France?
The maximum driving speed in France is 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas and 90 km/h (55 mph) on ordinary rural roads. Motorways allow higher limits where signposted, and speeds may be reduced in rain or poor weather, so watch for posted signs.
Do I need to be a certain age to rent a car in France?
In France you can drive and rent a car from age 18, though many rental companies add a young-driver surcharge for drivers under 25 and require a licence held for a minimum period. Check the rental terms before booking.
Do French rental agencies ask for an International Driver's License?
Rental agencies in France frequently request an International Driver's License from non-EU visitors alongside the home license and passport, particularly when the license is not in French or the Latin alphabet. Having the IDL ready prevents delays; without the required documents a rental may be refused.
Can I get an International Driver's License after arriving in France?
A foreign IDL should be arranged before you travel to France rather than on arrival. With E-ITA you apply online and receive your documents within minutes, which makes it practical even if you decide to drive at short notice once your trip is underway.
How long does it take to get an IDL for France through E-ITA?
The E-ITA application takes only a few minutes. You provide your details, confirm the information on your existing national license, and your International Driver's License is issued shortly after — with no appointment or office visit needed to drive in France.
Who can apply for an IDL to drive in France?
Anyone who holds a valid national driver's license can apply for an IDL to use in France. The permit does not replace your home license or grant new driving privileges — it simply translates the license you already have so French authorities can read it.
What travelers say
Reviews from verified E-ITA customers.
“The rental agent asked for an IDP with my license. I showed the digital copy from my phone and picked up the car with no issues.”
“The digital version arrived fast and worked at the rental counter. The printed booklet took five days to arrive, which was fine for my trip.”
“Applied from the airport with urgent processing and had the PDF before boarding. Exactly what I needed for my road trip.”
Ready to drive in France?
Apply in about 2 minutes — digital delivery in 8, printed booklet shipped worldwide.
