CPC (initial) and periodic CPC in 2026: duties for professional drivers

FIMO and FCO: what are these qualifications for?

France's FIMO (initial minimum training) and FCO (mandatory continued training) implement the EU Driver CPC directive. They attest that the driver masters EU social rules, safety and eco-driving. Without this certificate, a holder of a C, CE, D or DE licence cannot drive professionally.

FIMO: the initial qualification

Content and length

140 hours (5 weeks) for goods FIMO (C/CE) or passenger FIMO (D/DE). Programme: social rules (driving time, tachograph), safety (load securing, distances, alcohol), customer service (passengers) or dangerous goods (freight), eco-driving.

Validity

5 years from the date of issue. Then mandatory renewal via FCO.

FCO: renewal every 5 years

Content and length

35 hours (5 days), to complete within the 12 months preceding the CPC card's expiry. FCO updates skills: new regulations (e.g. ETS2 in 2026), eco-driving, stress management, adverse-condition driving.

Penalties

Driving without FIMO or with an expired FCO is punished by a €135 fine and vehicle immobilisation. The employer faces up to €15,000 in fines if inspected. Insurers may also refuse cover in case of a claim.

Cost in 2026

FIMO: €2,200 to €3,200 depending on the centre. FCO: €500 to €850. These courses are eligible for employer skills-development plans, OPCO funding (employees) or France Travail (jobseekers).

Where to take your FIMO or FCO?

At a prefecture-approved training centre. AFTRAL, Promotrans, ECF Pro, some large professional driving schools. DevisPermis.fr directs you to an approved centre in your region to compare offers and availability.

Common scenarios

I retire in 2 years — do I have to take FCO?

Yes, if you still drive professionally — the rule has no age exception. Many drivers schedule FCO right before their retirement date.

My CPC card has been expired for 6 months — what to do?

You must retake the 35-hour FCO before any return to professional driving. No complex paperwork, but a wait of 6 to 10 weeks depending on the centre.