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Drivers can now get proof of driving licence online in France
The new service could be useful in certain situations such as if you are stopped by police
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Driver arrested after dodging French motorway tolls with ‘kind words’ trick
The man used the same technique every time he passed through the péage
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MAP: How likely are you to pass your French driving test by department?
Your location could make more of a difference than you think
Drivers in France can check licence points on new official website
Proof of licence validity and which category of vehicle you are allowed to drive can also be downloaded for employers or insurers
Motorists can check the points on their French licence or download details of its validity at a new official website.
It replaces a platform called Télépoints, which was shut in November after criticism that it was too difficult to use.
Licence-holders can find the new website at mespoints.permisdeconduire.gouv.fr
Read more: Explainer: Speed cameras, fines and driving licence points in France
Log in to see points and vehicle category permissions
To log in, they must first create an account via the FranceConnect service, before specifying their type of licence and licence number.
They will then be directed to information showing how many points are left (in France, points are deducted from a maximum of 12 – or six for new drivers – for speeding and other road offences).
Users can also download a relevé d’information restreint (RIR), which shows what category of vehicle they are allowed to drive, and information such as if they must wear glasses.
RIRs are sometimes required for jobs and by insurance firms.
Read more: Where can I find my French driving licence number?
EU plan for health checks being debated
Drivers would need a health check when they first receive their licence – then every 15 years to keep it, under an EU plan being debated in a bid to reduce road deaths.
Checks could be more frequent for over-70s.
If agreed, the plan would take several years to be put into practice in French law.
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