Hi,
I’m originally from MA as well and moved to France in 2018. I did the same as Monti, I arrived with an international driver’s license.
Then I got the reciprocal license, and my process was the same. If I recall correctly I had to have a permanent address before being able to apply. All the info is available via your prefecture. So once you settle in, you can look it up.
The only thing I can add is if you ride a motorcycle, the exchange is not equivalent. You will only be allowed to ride A2 motorcycles: 35 KW or 47.5 hp… Prolly TMI anyway. If you want to know more just let me know.
But as Vero says, it’s a REALLY good idea to get lessons for driving in France. How good is your French??
Cheers