Driving licences: Readers share their experiences and tips when exchanging for a French one
Many find the process takes longer than expected
Many respondents reported extremely long wait times to exchange their foreign driving licence, often stretching from several months to over two years
aurelie le moigne / Shutterstock
Many residents of France go through the process of exchanging a driving licence from their country of origin for its French equivalent - and often find the process takes longer than expected.
We invited readers who have been through the process of exchanging their licence to complete a survey on their experiences - here is a breakdown of responses so far.
How long had you been living in France when you applied (years)?
Problems in driving licence exchanges
Many respondents reported extremely long wait times, often stretching from several months to over two years—far beyond initial estimates. This sometimes left individuals without a valid licence, as their original one expired during the process.
Wider frustrations with bureaucracy were also common. Respondents described difficulties contacting ANTS, receiving irrelevant or automated responses, or being repeatedly asked for documents they had already submitted.
Other issues included expiring paperwork, strict photo ID requirements, difficulties uploading documents, and rejections linked to technical errors or misinterpretations of rules (such as distinctions between citizenship and residency, or the recognition of certain US states).
How difficult did you find the process?
How long did the entire process take (weeks)?
These delays and complexities caused significant stress, inability to drive, and even isolation for some. Advice shared included applying well in advance (up to a year or two), being patient and well-organised with paperwork, and using support services such as France Services or dedicated Facebook groups.
Did you have to use an attestation de dépôt sécurisée?
If so, did you have to renew this document?
Several respondents noted stark contrasts with other countries, pointing out that licence renewals in the UK take only a few weeks, and exchanges in Switzerland are processed much faster.
Were you kept up to date on the progress of your application?
Why swap for a French driving licence?
The most common reason was the expiry of a UK or other foreign licence, especially at age 70. Many also said they no longer had a valid UK address to renew a British licence.
Others exchanged because they were permanent residents in France, were legally required to after a certain period (typically 12 months), or wanted consistency for naturalisation or long-stay visa applications.
Practical reasons included smoother dealings with insurers, avoiding problems if stopped by authorities, and simply making life in France easier.
For some, Brexit was also a factor—either in anticipation of changes or in response to new requirements.
Several respondents highlighted ongoing difficulties and delays with the ANTS system, with some still waiting for their French licence or having abandoned the process altogether.
If you have exchanged a foreign driving licence for a French one and would like to take part in our ongoing survey, you can do so here.
