Moving to France · driving · all states
Can you exchange a District of Columbia driver's license for a French one?
District of Columbia (DC)
No reciprocity agreement — you'll need the French test.
District of Columbia currently has no reciprocity agreement with France. You can drive on your District of Columbia license for a limited time after moving, but to keep driving you'll need to obtain a French license by passing the code (theory) and the practical test.
The 1-year rule
You have 1 year from establishing residence in France. The clock starts when you establish residence (typically your visa validation date), not when you arrive. During that first year you may drive on your District of Columbia license (with a certified French translation or International Driving Permit). After it, you must hold a French license.
What District of Columbia drivers need to do
- Drive on your District of Columbia license during your first year (carry a certified French translation or an International Driving Permit).
- Register with a French driving school and pass the code (theory exam).
- Pass the practical driving test to get your French permis.
- Plan ahead — waiting lists for the practical test can be long, so start well before your first year runs out.
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