How to Lease a Car in France as an Expat

The expat car leasing process is explained in 5 easy steps!

The car leasing process in France may seem intimidating to foreigners. However, as with everything in life, preparation is the key to success!

By following our 5-Step process, the car leasing process will be much easier to navigate!

1. Have Your Documents Ready!

The good news is that there are leasing companies in France who are specialized in assisting foreign professionals with financing their vehicles. To move forward, you will need to provide them with the following documents:

• Employment contract (stamped/signed by the company)
  • The latest payslip before the work in France
  • Lease document filled (only have it in French)
  • The latest bank account statement
  • ID card
  • Proof of address in France
  • The latest income statement

2. Driver’s License Rules in France

If you are an expat or foreign student living in France, then you can drive using a foreign license for a while. The country recognizes driver’s licenses issued by many countries. However, after a certain period, about a year, in most cases, you will need to exchange your driving license for a French one.

With foreign driving licenses becoming invalid within 12 months of the residency date, it is vital to ensure that you get started on this process as quickly as possible after arrival. An application to change your license can be completed at the Police headquarters in Paris. You will need a form known as une demande d’échange de permis de conduire. Not all sub-prefectures process license exchanges, which means that it is a good idea to check beforehand so you can avoid any issues.

These are the Documents Required:

 A color photocopy of your current driver’s license.
 An official translation of your license, or an IDP (International Driver’s Permit) if you have it;
 A recent passport photograph.

Follow the link on how to exchange a foreign driver’s license: Service Public France.

Note: Information may not be up-to-date. Please check official government information for latest laws and regulations.

3. Know What You Want and Your Budget

How long do you need the car?
Car leasing in France typically starts at 12 months. Usually, the longer the lease term, the lower the monthly payments

What is your budget?
The first thing any car leasing specialist will ask you is “what is your budget?” For this reason, it’s good to have an idea of what you are willing to spend on your monthly car payments.

When do you need the car?
Usually, the more flexible you are with your car selection, the faster you can obtain your lease. Many times, vehicle providers have popular cars in stock that could be available on short notice. On the other hand, if you opt for a factory-ordered vehicle of a make not common in France, you could be in for a long wait.

Delivery times vary considerably on new cars, and you want to be out in good time to ensure that you can get the car you want at your desired time. The usual process time is one to two weeks if the car is available in stock.

4. The Terms and Conditions

Usually, there is no down payment at the start of the lease. Maintenance, service, repairs, road side assistance, and tires may be included.

Auto Insurance
Insurance is usually included in France. Make sure to read the print in small to make sure you and the passengers are covered in case of an accident. Also, find out how much you’re expected to pay in the event of an accident or damage to the car.

Terminating the lease early
If you have to return your vehicle earlier than expected, the lease agreement will state exactly how any remaining payments or penalties are calculated. So be sure to consider the termination terms when comparing offers.

Vehicle registration
The leasing company will handle the vehicle registration as part of their service.

5. Expat Specialized Car Leasing Company

A company that can assist is ExpatRide International. They have experience with assisting expats across the globe and service many Fortune 1000 companies’ employees in France

ExpatRide can assist with most vehicle makes and models available in France, such as: Alfa Romeo, Audi, BMW, Chrysler, Fiat, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Jaguar, Jeep, Kia, Land Rover, Lexus, Mazda, Mercedes Benz, Mini, Mitsubishi, MG, Nissan, Opel, Peugeot, Porsche, Renault, Rolls-Royce, SEAT, Skoda, Smart, Subaru, Suzuki, Tesla, Toyota, Volkswagen, Volvo

They service all majpr cities of France such as: Paris, Colmar, Haguenau, Mulhouse, Ribeauvillé, Strasbourg, Agen, Bayonne, Bergerac, Biarritz, Bordeaux, Dax, Lacq, Libourne, Mont-de-Marsan, Pau, Périgueux, Pessac, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Talence, Aurillac, Clermont-Ferrand, Le Puy-en-Velay, Montluçon, Moulins, Riom, Vichy and and the list goes on……

Please visit ExpatRide’s France page for more information on how the local expat car leasing process works and local practical information. Learn more about their services in France here…