Following the implementation of the agreement to exit the United Kingdom from the European Union (EU) known as Brexit, the French and British authorities have reached an agreement on the continuity of the mutual recognition of driving licenses, which will enter into force from Monday of June. February 28, 2021.

This principle of recognition remains valid for holders of a British driver’s license issued before 1 January 2021, who therefore do not need to exchange their license for a French license, regardless of their nationality. This principle also applies to French license holders residing in the United Kingdom.

Specifically, British permit holders living in France and French permit holders living in the UK can continue to travel with their original valid permit. It is not necessary for them to request the exchange for the permit from the country of residence, except when the validity date of the original permit has expired or in case of loss or theft of this permit.

On the other hand, the license exchange is mandatory for holders of a driver’s license issued after January 1, 2021 and who wish to reside for more than one year in France. In this case, the holders have a period of one year from their installation in the country to request said exchange.

Exchange requests should be sent to the National Agency for Guaranteed Securities (ANTS): https://permisdeconduire.ants.gouv.fr/

It is recalled that any holder of a British driving license going to France for a short tourist stay can drive there with his license, under the Vienna Convention on road traffic of 8 November 1968, including France and the United Kingdom . Great Britain and Northern Ireland are signatories. This also applies to French drivers traveling to the UK.

British Ambassador Ed Llewellyn said:

“I am delighted to be able to reassure people who have a valid UK license that they can continue to drive in France without having to take a French driving test.
I know this is good news for many people in France who need the ability to drive to work, go to their medical appointments, and see their friends and family.

For those with an expired British license, there is now a clear process to exchange it for a French license, allowing them to get back on the road. “