France Driving License (Permis de Conduire Français) – Features & Verification Guide (2025)

The French Driving License is an official government-issued identity and driving document, recognized both in France and across the EU. It serves not only as a permit to drive but is also widely used for KYC (Know Your Customer) and identity verification in both digital and in-person services.

Overview

The current French driving license format is the EU-standard plastic photocard, issued since 2013, and compliant with Directive 2006/126/EC. Older paper versions are still valid until 2033 but are gradually being phased out.

Key Features of the French Photocard Driving License

Credit card size (ID-1 format)
EU standard pink card with the French Republic emblem and the EU flag
Languages: French with some English/EU codes
Durable plastic with embedded anti-counterfeit features

Front Side Includes:

Photo of the license holder
Full name (Nom, Prénom(s))
Date and place of birth
License number (Numéro du permis)
Date of issue and expiry
Issuing authority (Préfecture or Agence Nationale des Titres Sécurisés – ANTS)
Categories of vehicles permitted (e.g., AM, B, C, D)
Digital signature
French flag and “République Française” label

Back Side Includes:

Vehicle categories and issue dates
Administrative restrictions or codes (if applicable)
Machine-readable zone (MRZ) or barcode for verification

Validity

Valid for 15 years for standard categories (A & B)
Shorter validity (5 years) for heavier vehicles or medical restrictions
Must be updated if there are changes in name, address, or health

KYC & Digital Identity Verification Use

The Permis de Conduire is accepted for identity verification on:

Banking & fintech platforms: Revolut, Wise, Lydia, N26, Payoneer
Crypto exchanges: Binance, Kraken, Bitstamp
Travel and mobility apps: BlaBlaCar, Uber, Bolt
Government and online service portals

To verify:

Upload clear front and back images of the license
Ensure the following are visible:
- License number
- Name, date of birth, and photo
- Vehicle categories
- Date of issue and expiry

Additional checks may include:

Selfie holding the license
Liveness detection / video verification
Proof of address (for full onboarding)

Lost, Expired, or Damaged License

To renew or replace:

Apply via the ANTS website
Required documents:
- Old or damaged license (if available)
- Valid ID (passport or CNI)
- Proof of address
- Passport photo
Fee: ~€25 (online payment)
Processing time: 2–3 weeks

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