Vehicle Documents

International Driving Permit

While a national driving licence is recognised in all European Union countries (and a few others), this is not the case elsewhere. It is therefore (theoretically) necessary to have an international driving permit. This is merely an administrative document and does not require any test. However, it is not valid for driving in France.

Note that this international driving permit may be requested when renting a vehicle in any country where your national licence is not recognised. So, it’s worth getting one for your travels, especially since it’s free.

Obtaining

Since late 2017, applications have been centralised for regions at the Loire-Atlantique Prefecture and for Paris at the Paris Police Prefecture. This permit is free (a good reason to get one!) and is valid for 3 years. A number of documents must be provided by post, the list of which is available on the service-public.fr website. However, be mindful of delays—the French administration is not known for its speed, and the process can take several weeks.

Other Documents

Only applicable if travelling with your own vehicle.

Insurance (Green Card)

This is required to drive in the countries listed on the back. Elsewhere, you will need either an extension of coverage from your insurer before departure or a "border insurance" offered upon arrival in the country/countries.

Vehicle Registration Certificate

Mandatory for all countries.

Carnet de Passage en Douane

This document acts as a guarantee for certain destinations, primarily in Africa and Asia. It must be stamped upon entry and exit from any country that requires it. Its purpose is to prevent the vehicle from being sold locally without export taxes being paid.

In practice, you leave a deposit with the organisation issuing the carnet, which will be used to "compensate" the country in case of any issues. If everything goes smoothly, you get your deposit back at the end of the trip.

This carnet is obtained from the Automobile Club for 157 € or 230 €, depending on whether you are a member. It is issued for one year, renewable, with a deposit (usually a bank guarantee) equal to 100% of the vehicle’s market value, with a minimum of 2,500 € if the vehicle is no longer listed or its value is lower.