Can you change driving schools mid-training?
Yes, it is entirely legal to change driving schools at any point during your training. Whether for scheduling, teaching methods, fees or because you have moved, you have the right to transfer your file to a new school.
When is it a good idea to switch schools?
Switching schools may be the right decision if you are not progressing despite many driving hours, if your relationship with your instructor is poor, if the available slots don't suit your schedule, if you have moved, or if you feel the fees are excessive relative to the quality of training.
The process for changing schools
1. Retrieve your NEPH file
Your NEPH number (Numéro d'Enregistrement Préfectoral Harmonisé) belongs to you. Your current school is legally obliged to provide it on request. This number contains your exam history and is essential to enrol in a new school.
2. Request a refund for unused hours
If you paid for a package that includes driving hours you have not yet used, your school must reimburse those hours. Check your contract for the refund terms.
3. Retrieve your training log
Your training log (or its digital equivalent) records the competencies you have acquired. Ask your current school for a copy; it will help the new school assess your level.
4. Enrol at your new school
With your NEPH number and training log, enrol at the new school. It will pick up your file from where you left off, without starting from scratch.
How to quickly find a better driving school?
DevisPermis.fr connects you for free with certified schools that handle file transfers. Fill in the form stating you wish to change schools, and a partner school will call you back within 48 hours to assess your situation and make a tailored offer.
Next step
How to get the right support?
DevisPermis.fr connects you for free with a certified driving school near you. Answer 5 questions in 2 minutes, and an advisor will call you back within 48h* to offer a tailored package.
Discuss it for free*Excluding Sundays and public holidays
Frequently asked
Your questions on this topic
Can you change driving school mid-training?
Yes, any student can change driving school freely and at any time. The original school must hand over the learning logbook and proof of hours completed within 15 days after written request (registered letter). No transfer fee is legal. Paid but uncompleted hours are refunded pro rata within 30 days maximum after request.
How to recover your driving school file quickly?
3 steps: 1) written request by registered letter with acknowledgement (8 EUR), 2) 15-day legal deadline for handing over the logbook and certificate, 3) in case of blockage, contact DGCCRF or prefecture (driving schools department). Over 8,000 complaints yearly, processed within 1 to 2 months. Keep copies of all payments and email exchanges.
Will I lose paid hours when changing driving school?
No, paid but unused hours are refunded pro rata within 30 days, or transferred if the new school accepts a credit. Completed hours are recorded in the learning logbook and recognised by the new school without new assessment. Check the initial contract: some abusive clauses on file fees (50 to 150 EUR) can be challenged.
What are the reasons to change driving school?
Top 5 reasons: 1) overly long waiting times for driving (38 percent of cases), 2) bad relationship with instructor (22 percent), 3) moving home (18 percent), 4) hidden fees or unannounced extra hours (12 percent), 5) driving school closure (10 percent). No legal reason required; freedom of choice is absolute since the 2015 law.
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