A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "I'd like to check out" in French
The standard French phrase to ask for the bill at a restaurant or to pay for services.
Je voudrais régler.
zhuh voo-DRAY ray-GLAYneutral
French TTS · 0:01
Use this when you're finished eating at a restaurant and want to get the bill. It's also appropriate when you're ready to pay for a service, like at a hotel reception.
Alternatives
- L'addition, s'il vous plaît.More direct, specifically asking for the bill rather than the act of paying.
- Je peux payer ?Slightly more casual, asking if you are able to pay now.
Ways to get it wrong
Pronouncing 'régler' like 'reg-ler'
The French 'r' sound is guttural, made in the back of the throat, not a hard 'g'.
Confusing 'régler' with 'réserver'
'Régler' means to pay or settle, while 'réserver' means to book or reserve.
The same phrase in other languages
Frequently asked
How do I ask for the bill in French?
The most common way is 'Je voudrais régler.' You can also say 'L'addition, s'il vous plaît.' for a more direct request for the bill itself.
Is 'Je voudrais régler' polite enough?
Yes, 'Je voudrais régler' is perfectly polite and standard for asking to pay in most situations.
Can I use 'Je voudrais régler' at a hotel?
Absolutely. It's a good phrase to use at the reception desk when you are checking out and ready to settle your bill.