France has officially moved its International Driving Permit (IDP) application process to a fully digital platform as of March 9, 2026 www.visahq.com. This transition replaces the previous paper-based system, requiring all applicants to submit their requests through the National Agency for Secure Documents (ANTS) portalants.gouv.fr. Along with the shift to online-only submissions, the French government has introduced a mandatory processing fee of €7.25, ending the previous policy of free issuance.

The modernization of the application process is expected to significantly improve efficiency, with processing times projected to drop from approximately three months to between two and four weeks. Applicants are required to upload digital copies of necessary documentation and complete the payment directly through the online portal. This change is part of a broader effort to streamline administrative procedures in France ahead of the implementation of the European Union's Entry/Exit System (EES).

Travelers and organizations managing international mobility are advised to update their internal protocols to account for the new fee and the digital-only requirement. Failure to carry a valid International Driving Permit while driving in jurisdictions that require it can result in significant fines. The new system aims to ensure that permits are issued in a more timely manner, reducing the risk of travelers being without the necessary documentation for their trips abroad.