C and CE licences: what exactly do they cover?
The C licence allows you to drive a goods vehicle over 3.5 tonnes. The CE licence adds a trailer of over 750 kg — this is the articulated-truck licence. Both are essential for a career in professional road freight transport in France.
Eligibility
You must have held a B licence for at least 24 months (12 if you went through accompanied driving), be 21 (or 18 via vocational training), pass a medical examination with a prefecture-approved doctor and show no disqualifying condition (sight, hearing, heart).
Training length and content
C licence
Between 105 and 140 hours in a classic format, reduced to 35 hours for an experienced driver in a continuing-education path. The curriculum alternates HGV-specific theory, pad manoeuvres (reverse parallel parking, angled parking) and open-road driving.
CE licence
The CE requires the C first (unless you follow a full Titre Pro Conducteur path) and averages 105 hours. Focus is on coupling/uncoupling, manoeuvring a 16–18 m semi-trailer and managing the extended blind spots.
How much does it cost in 2026?
Expect €2,200 to €3,500 for the C alone and €3,500 to €5,500 for a C + CE + FIMO bundle. These trainings can be funded via France Travail (jobseekers), an OPCO (employees) or an AIF grant. CPF remains available for the professional-certificate leg.
The job behind the licence: 2026 outlook
A strained labour market
The FNTR federation estimates more than 50,000 unfilled driver positions in France in 2026. Entry-level salaries start around €2,100 net per month for a C licence and €2,400 to €2,800 with the CE (excluding bonuses, overnight stays and standby).
Three main specialities
Long-haul (international, frequent overnights), regional (home every night) and urban delivery (city, mostly rigid trucks). The speciality shapes lifestyle more than pay — choose according to your personal project.
Do you have to use a driving school?
Yes — C and CE licences can only be prepared through a prefecture-approved training centre. But prices vary a lot: compare at least three serious providers before signing. Also check the first-attempt pass rate (the most reliable metric) and the availability of HGV manoeuvring slots.
DevisPermis.fr to find your professional centre
Our service connects you for free with approved driving schools or vocational training centres across France. Fill in the form in 2 minutes, get a callback within 48 hours with a tariff matched to your project (C, CE, Titre Pro, funding).
Next step
How to get the right support?
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