In an earlier post, I observed that French bureaucrats were becoming nicer, more humane in their treatment of clients. A recent experience with the sous-prefecture has shown otherwise.
Government offices keep odd hours, and the sous-prefecture is no exception. It is open only in the mornings. A long line of people extend beyond the door, down the stairs and on to the sidewalk.
We went to change car titles to our name. Two of the cars needed repair, but the potential buyers wanted them anyway.
We have our paperasse (paperwork). Photo ids. Copy of bills from the electric and phone companies to prove residency. Copy of the estate paperwork along with the Livret de Famille. Permission (procuration) from the other owner (with copies of a photo id), enabling us to change the name on the title.
Simple enough?
At this particular sous-prefecture, a receptionist-gatekeeper determines whether you are allowed to take a number for an appointment.
--How did you lose so many car titles?
--We didn't. It’s an estate. . . .
--But this estate lists three heirs . . .
--But we have a procuration from the other person. . . .
She shuffles papers on her desk.
--What? These cars need to pass the contrôle technique (technical inspection) before you change the name on the title!
--But they don’t need to pass that inspection. We just need to change the name on the title.
--I don’t have time! NEXT!
A friend , Cathy L., later commented, “It’s like asking for a health certificate after the person has died."
Needless to say, we will have to return. . . .
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