What licence do you need to drive an electric car in 2026?
No specific licence is required to drive an electric car. The standard car licence (B) - or automatic, since all electrics have automatic gearboxes - is sufficient. No supplementary training is mandatory. However, some specifics are worth knowing for relaxed and economical driving.
The specifics of electric braking
Electric cars often feature regenerative braking (energy recovery during deceleration). In 'one-pedal driving' mode, releasing the accelerator can decelerate the vehicle as powerfully as moderate braking. This changes the perceived braking distances. The 2026 highway code now includes questions on this topic.
Silent driving: pedestrian awareness
An electric vehicle is almost silent below 30 km/h. To alert pedestrians, manufacturers have been required since 2019 to equip their cars with an AVAS (Acoustic Vehicle Alert System) that generates an artificial sound. In 2026, all electric vehicles on the road in France are fitted with one.
Battery management while driving
Unlike filling up with petrol, charging an electric vehicle can take from 30 minutes (150 kW fast charger) to several hours (home charger). Good planning of the charging network is essential for long journeys. For daily driving, overnight home charging is the most practical solution.
Training driving schools for electric vehicles: actions in 2026
Since 2025, the training programme for driving instructors has made it mandatory to include a module on electric vehicle specifics. In 2026, the majority of schools have hybrid or electric training vehicles alongside conventional ones.
The impact on car insurance
Insurers have progressively adapted their offers to electric vehicles. In 2026, insurance premiums for electrics are on average slightly higher than for combustion-engine cars (costly battery repairs), but reductions exist for AAC drivers or those with an eco-driving certificate.
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Frequently asked
Your questions on this topic
Can you take the licence on an electric car in 2026?
Yes, since 2024 and confirmed in 2026, the B exam can be taken on a fully electric automatic vehicle without the B78 mention (automatic restriction). This derogation recognises the electric specificity. Tip: check the school has an exam-approved electric fleet, still rare in provinces but common in Paris (40 percent of cars).
What licence for an electric car over 3.5 tonnes in 2026?
Since 2024 the B licence covers an electric vehicle up to 4.25 tonnes (instead of 3.5 tonnes for thermal) to accommodate heavier batteries. This derogation applies to all electric N1 category M1 vehicles. Tip: check the real weight on the registration card (box F2) before buying, some electric SUVs exceed this threshold.
Does the 2026 highway code include electric questions?
Yes, the 2026 highway code adds 20 to 30 new questions on electric vehicles: charging, range, charge-point signage, regenerative braking, specific eco-driving and reactions silent vehicles trigger for pedestrians. About 5 to 7 percent of ETG exam questions. Tip: revise this module with a 2026-updated app, older materials barely cover it.
Electric car insurance for a young driver in 2026?
In 2026 electric car insurance for a young driver is 10 to 15 percent cheaper than an equivalent thermal, thanks to the eco-driving bonus and low mechanical claim costs. Count 900 to 1,800 euros yearly comprehensive in Paris. Tip: pick a Renault Zoe, Peugeot e-208 or Dacia Spring, their insurance rating is very favourable.
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