How to Apply for an International Driving Permit in France

An international driving licence (IDP) is essentially a ‘translation’ of your current French driving permit that may be required to drive overseas.

An IDP is recognised in 186 countries around the world and can smooth the bureaucracy when renting a car as it is automatically recognised. The IDP should still always be accompanied by the original licence.

If you currently live in France and have exchanged your overseas licence for a French licence, Whether or not you will need an international driving licence to drive overseas depends on the rules of the country in question. You won’t need an IDP to drive in the UK, the US, and EU and EEA countries; however, other countries may require an international licence or a certified translation into the local language.

Find out more about the international permit requirements here.

If you have a French or EU licence, you can apply for an international driving permit via ANTS.

1/ Sign in or create an account on ANTS (Agence Nationale des titres sécurisés) – you can use the same account used when you applied for your French licence.

2/ Click on “Demander un permis international”

3/ Fill in the form and add the required supporting documents. You’ll need to provide your ID, proof of address, your current driving licence, and proof of French residence, such as your titre de Sejour.

4/ Confirm the process by sending the requested additional documents by post. You’ll need to provide a passport-style photograph, the printed form issued after making the online application, and a stamped, self-addressed envelope (signed-for delivery).

6/ The process can take up to four months and your licence will be sent via post. You can follow the progress of your request in your ANTS space.

Find out more about the application process here.

Bon route!