questions
Driving licence is set to expire before exchange in France – what can I do?
Some drivers think they can keep driving until the right to drive date shown on the back of the licence has expired, however that is not the case
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Reader question: I applied for my UK driving licence to be exchanged for a French licence late in 2025. I heard from ANTS in the spring about an additional document needed, but have heard nothing since. I am concerned that my licence is expiring and I will not have the new one in time – what can I do?
The Connexion has previously heard from readers who have seen their UK licence expire without receiving their French one.
As you heard from the authorities relatively recently, it means that your case has been looked at, although the request for additional information could have caused a delay.
You should be able to check the progress of your request in your account at France Titres.
Ensure that it does not indicate any further issues. If it says ‘en instruction’ it is still being processed.
You can also send an online message via the contact form, which ANTS states is the best way to contact the organisation, or call on 34 00.
If necessary, you could visit your local France Services office to ask for their help in chasing up the application.
When processing reaches the final stage – at which the holder is asked to send in their old licence – the driver receives an attestation de dépôt sécurisée.
This gives proof of their right to drive in France for an additional four months while the new licence is made. Unfortunately, there is no way to obtain this before the final stage.
A justificatif de dépôt, proving you have made an exchange request, is not enough for you to prove your driving rights.
Some drivers believe they can continue to use their licence up until the right to drive date shown on the back of their licence has passed.
This is not the case however, and insurers may not be able to provide insurance to people with an expired licence.
If your licence does expire, you will be unable to drive legally in France until you receive your attestation de dépôt sécurisée.
Note that drivers needing to exchange their licence for a French are now being advised to do so 12 months in advance on the advice of Nantes prefecture, responsible for processing renewal requests.
