Driver’s License: Soon Possible from Age 17?

It has been several months since the idea of lowering the driving age to 17 was in the government’s mind.

According to information from our colleagues at FranceInfo, Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne could announce in eight days a bill that would allow 17-year-olds to drive a car alone. This announcement would be made during the youth plan.

The political party Les Républicains even considered lowering the age to 16 three weeks ago.

Do other countries allow taking the driving test at 17?

France will not be the only country to adopt the driving license starting at 17. In Europe, the UK, Ireland, and Slovakia have already implemented this reform. In the United States, the minimum age to drive a car alone is 16, two years less than in France currently. However, minors are still allowed to drive vehicles in France.

Lowered age for accompanied driving?

Younger individuals can drive a car from age 15, but only when accompanied. They can later pass the driving test at 17 and a half, but must wait until 18 to drive alone.

The age for accompanied driving is not expected to decrease despite the bill for a 17-year-old license. The main goal would be to help young people access employment more easily. A 17-year-old license would give them a mobility advantage.

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