Here is when and how to do it to replace him

If you still hang out with your driver’s license in pink unfolding format in your wallet, you will have to move.

This good nostalgic old cardboard that has accompanied us for decades has been bowing on January 19, 2033.

After this date, presenting this document during a check will earn you a fine of € 11 (which can increase to € 38 in the event of an increase). Suffice to say that there is still time, but it is better to do it in advance rather than playing procrastinators until the last minute. Especially since the steps, even if they are online, can take several weeks.

The license is now a bank card format

Since September 2013, the French driving license has changed its look. Exit the pink leaflet which folded in all directions and always ended up tearing up in the corners. Make way for a secure credit card format, more convenient to slip into your wallet and above all much more difficult to falsify.

Even if you are more than 7 years old in front of you, several good reasons are pushing to change now. First, the old paper license is getting badly: it is tearing itself apart, is staining, the photo fades … So many problems that can complicate your life during a road control.

Then, the new card format is more practical on a daily basis. No more document that folds badly and takes the place of three cards in your wallet. The new version is easily slipped next to your bank card.

On the security side, the new permit incorporates much more advanced anti -falsification elements. Electronic chip, holograms, special inks … enough to reassure the police and avoid prolonged controls.

The online approach, simple but to anticipate

The change is made exclusively on the ANTS website (National Agency for Secure Titles). No passage in the prefecture, everything takes place from your sofa. Direction the section ” Driving license ” Then ” Request the manufacture of your driving license« .

You will have to click on ” Loss, theft, deterioration, end of validity or change of civil status – Yes, even if your license is neither lost nor stolen, it is the right tab for early renewal.

Documents to be expected:

• Digital identity photo (respecting official standards)
• Proof of address of less than 6 months
• Valid identity document (identity card or passport)
• Your old pink license (to scan)

The process is free. Count 2 to 3 weeks to receive your new secure mail license. During this period, keep your old document which remains valid.

And the digital license on smartphone, then?

Good news for followers of “everything in the phone”: France has been testing the digital driving license on the France Identity application since 2023. This dematerialized version allows you to have your license directly in your smartphone, as you can already do with your vital card.

To go further
How to install digital identity card, driving license, vital card and gray card on your smartphone

How does it work? Once your new card format license has been obtained, you can add it to the Identity App by scanning its electronic chip. The digital license is then displayed with photo, QR secure code and all your driving categories. Practical when you forget your wallet.