Do I need a special driver's license to drive in Paris, France?

Question

I am traveling to Paris France and I'd like to rent a scooter or small sedan. I'm 33 years old and have a valid Virginia driver's license. Do I need something special i.e. a international license to rent a car there for a week?

Answer 1

I agree with Cabal.  I have been to Paris and you do not want to drive in that chaos.  It is easy to use the metro  or take a taxi!  The bumpers of other cars have no problem touching your bumper at anytime!  I disagree with Cabal.  I would get an international drivers license!

Answer 2

You may not HAVE to have an international driver's license, but it didn't cost much, and it assures that if you DO get stopped, the police will know what KIND of license you hold...there are too many different ones out there for them to know what is real and what is not.  Just go to AAA.   But what do you want to drive there for?  the public transport is just so easy to get around, and, listen, I tried driving in Madrid last year, and it was INSANE!!!   I was having nightmares by the third day.  Take my advice do NOT drive in the city.  It just isn't worth it.  If you really MUST have a car to use outside the city, park it somewhere near the ring road, and take the metro back and forth to the hotel.  You will thank me.  I promise.

Answer 3

You don't need an international driving license. What they ask is for a valid driving license more than three years old (for insurance reasons) with a picture and a valid international credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Amex...).

Unless you are used to crazy traffic, weaving scooters cutting in front of you from right and left and weaving cars I would not recommend a scooter, this is the  most accident prone category of vehicles in Paris. And frankly if you are staying in Paris you do not need a car, you have an excellent underground and bus network. Most Parisians do not own cars. Parking is a nightmare and thanks to our mayor and his fanatical Green friends traffic jams are a given.

Answer 4

I don't think so but you may want to contact a rental car place or talk to a travel agent.  I went to England and rented a car and drove on my american licence of course that was england and not paris.