The automatic B licence (code 78) is growing spectacularly in France. From 7% of licences issued in 2018 to 38% in 2025 according to the Ministry of the Interior's annual report. The spread of hybrid and electric vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions explains this trend. This guide analyses 2026 specifics, rates, benefits and limits of the B78 licence.
What is the B78 licence?
The B78 licence (also called « automatic ») authorises driving automatic or semi-automatic vehicles only. It excludes classic manual-gearbox cars. On the licence, a « 78 » mark appears in the restrictions column. Training is lighter: 13 hours minimum driving vs 20 for the classic B, with about 25-30% lower cost.
2026 rates in France
Classic B78 package (13h driving + theory): €850-1,150 national average, vs €1,250-1,600 for manual B 20h. In Paris, expect €1,100-1,400 for B78 vs €1,550-1,850 for B. Online platforms (Ornikar, En Voiture Simone, Stych, Lepermislibre) offer B78 packages from €799. Theory is identical: no savings on this part.
Who chooses automatic?
The typical B78 candidate profile has evolved. Historically mainly disabled people (weak left leg, prosthesis). In 2026, profile is much wider: 55% B78 candidates are 18-25 year olds, drawn by simplicity and reduced timelines; 25% are adults resuming driving; 20% are people who repeatedly failed manual B (ECF France 2025 survey).
Urban boom
In big cities (Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Bordeaux), B78 share reaches 48% in 2025, vs 28% in rural areas. Reasons: dominant urban use (frequent stop-starts where auto excels), growing share of EVs and hybrids in cities, scarcity of manual vehicles in carsharing fleets (Zity, Free2Move all automatic).
B78-to-B bridge: 7-hour training
B78 holders can obtain the classic manual B licence by following a complementary 7-hour training minimum, without retaking the exam. Condition: justify at least 3 months of B78 licence. Average rate: €450-650 by region. Training includes 7h driving on a manual vehicle with approved instructor, resulting in a certificate removing mark 78.
Administrative procedure
After 7h training, the school issues a follow-up certificate. The candidate sends this to ANTS via their personal account (« licence modification » request). A new licence without mark 78 is produced within 2-4 weeks. Initial licence must be returned at new licence pickup.
B78 pros and cons
Pros: shorter training (13h vs 20h), approx 25-30% lower cost, higher success rate (63% first-attempt vs 52% manual B), less exam stress (one less difficulty). Cons: limited access to manual vehicles (many used cars, classic rental), mandatory complementary training to access full B, possible insurance surcharge with some insurers (rare in 2026).
Automatic vehicles in 2026
The French car fleet has about 40% automatic-transmission vehicles in 2025 (vs 13% in 2015), a trend amplified by electrification. All 100% electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles are automatic (or gearless for EVs, direct transmission). In new cars, over 60% of 2025 registrations are automatic. In recent used (under 3 years), share reaches 48%.
B78 and professional driving
For transport trades (VTC, taxi, delivery, freelance nurse), B78 is fully operational if the professional vehicle is automatic (often the case in recent fleets). However, for trades requiring a wide vehicle mix (escort, tow, rental), full B remains essential. Before choosing B78, consider your future professional uses.
Specialised B78 schools
Some schools specialise in B78 (100% automatic, zero manual vehicles). They typically offer more competitive rates and a 100% recent/electric fleet. Examples: Ornikar (online platform, specialised partners), En Voiture Simone (100% electric since 2023), Lepermislibre (modern vehicles, Paris and big cities). Traditional schools offer B78 but sometimes with ageing fleets.
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