Foreigners Licenses are Legal in France
As long as you're 18 years old and you have a valid license, you're actually legally allowed to drive in France. They're a lot stricter on the '18 years old' part than they are on anything else. This means that, even though your license might be recognized by the State, if you're not 18 or above, you're not allowed to drive in the country. As for the validity of your license, it has to be recognized by your country of origin and as long as it has no restrictions and it remains valid during your stay here, you're allowed to drive!
Exchanging Your License to a French One
Once one year has passed and you're still in France, you'll need to get a French license in order to drive. Only certain countries have this privilege, so ensure that you know if your country is one of them or not! One exception is for EU citizens. Their licenses, be they French or from their respective countries of origin, allow them to drive in the country for an unlimited amount of time. Provided, however, that their own licenses do not have specific restrictions and remain valid throughout their stay here. Another exception is for students and diplomats. They're are allowed to drive throughout their entire stay in France without having to exchange it for a French one.
What You'll Need to Exchange Your License
When it's time to exchange your license for a French one, you'll need to apply at your local Préfecture de Police or Mairie. They, in turn, will ask for a series of documents to process the application. This list of requirements includes a colored photocopy of your foreign driver’s license (with translations if needed), your International Driver’s Permit (if you have one), most recent passport photos, a photocopy of your French/Schengen visa (if you are a non-EU citizen, and proof of six months’ residence in France. Once you've shown all of these, you won't have to worry about much anymore!
The French Driving Test
If your country of origin isn't part of the list of countries in agreement with France on legal license exchange, you'll have to take the French driving test after a one-year residency in the country. This is the same test that all French citizens take in order to get a license. This will include a theory exam, which will test you on the French Highway Code, as well as the standard practical exam. You're only allowed five attempts for the practical driving test, which now includes first-aid knowledge. After that, it will only take 48 hours until you get your results!
Road Rules in France You Need To Know
In order to pass your French driving test—as well as to drive safely and properly in France if it's your first time driving here—you have to be familiar with the French Highway Code (Code de la Route). Fortunately, you can easily get a copy for yourself in practically any bookstore in France. Though one of the more common ones you should already know are that you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Children 10-years-old and below are not allowed to ride in the front seat unless there is no room in the back. You must also carry a reflective triangle and vest in the car at all times. And more!
The legality of driving in France is a lot more complex than you might realize. Though the gist of it all is easy enough to understand as it is. Nevertheless, it's important to always stay informed about whether you're allowed to drive in the country and how to do so properly!
