Senior drivers in Paris: medical exam and licence renewal

In France, there is no legal age limit to drive a car (category B). A senior driver can theoretically keep the licence for life, without a mandatory medical exam, contrary to popular belief. However, specific rules apply for professional licences, in case of declared medical conditions, and after certain offences. This guide clarifies the 2026 official framework for Paris drivers over 60.

B licence: no mandatory age-related medical exam

Unlike several European countries (Italy, Spain, Portugal), France does not impose periodic medical exams for the B licence. Article R.221-10 of the Highway Code, updated in 2023, confirms this position: the B licence is issued without duration limit or age-related medical exam. This rule was maintained despite recurring parliamentary debates, notably after the 2023 ONISR report.

Exceptions concern specific situations

The medical exam becomes mandatory in several cases: professional licence (taxi, VTC, HGV, public transport) from age 60; licence invalidation after points loss; administrative or judicial suspension; declaration of a medical condition incompatible with driving (epilepsy, insulin-dependent diabetes, severe cardiovascular disorders, major vision disorders).

The official list of medical conditions

The order of 28 March 2022 (as amended) sets the list of medical conditions incompatible or compatible with driving. This list distinguishes light categories (B, AM, A1) and heavy (C, D, EC, ED, taxi, VTC). For seniors, main focus points: visual acuity (minimum 5/10 with best correction), horizontal visual field (minimum 120°), binaural hearing, cardiac pathologies, early cognitive disorders (Alzheimer's, Parkinson's).

The medical exam procedure

If your situation requires an exam, go to a doctor approved by the Paris Police Prefecture. The list is published on prefecturedepolice.interieur.gouv.fr and includes about 450 doctors within Paris city limits. The fee is capped at €36 (2023 rate order). The doctor issues a fitness certificate mentioning a validity period (1, 2, 3, 5 years depending on your health), to be transmitted to the prefecture.

Consultation progression

The doctor performs a physical exam (blood pressure, heart rate, motor coordination), a vision test (acuity, peripheral vision, colour perception, night vision), a simple hearing test, and assesses mental state and medications taken. They may request further tests (MRI, ECG, specialised ophthalmological review). In case of restricted fitness, they may prescribe conditions: mandatory glasses, daytime driving only, adapted vehicle (automatic, wide-angle mirrors).

Professional licences: periodic exams

For Paris professional drivers (taxi, VTC, bus, truck), the medical exam becomes mandatory every 5 years up to age 60, then every 2 years between 60 and 76, then every year after 76. These exams are held with an approved doctor or a prefecture medical commission (Bd Saint-Marcel, 13th).

Reporting a medical condition: voluntary step

Any driver realising a health issue could alter their driving (reduced vision, dizziness, attention disorders) must, responsibly, get examined. Article L.223-5 of the Highway Code states no declaration is mandatory to the prefecture; it is for the GP to advise and, if needed, recommend a medical commission exam.

GP's position

The GP is not obliged to report an unfit patient to the prefecture, except in clear endangerment of others. They can however note a driving contraindication in the medical file, opposable in case of accident (insurance, civil and criminal liability consequences).

What to do if unfit

If the approved doctor issues a total unfitness decision, the licence is returned to the prefecture. A challenge is possible within two months with the departmental medical appeal commission, which can summon an independent medical adviser. The appeal reversal rate is around 20% according to prefectural statistics published in 2024.

Adapting driving: good senior practices

Drivers over 65 show an above-average accident mortality rate according to ONISR, mainly due to physical fragility. Good practices: prefer daytime driving, avoid rain and snow, reduce long trips over 2h without break, equip the vehicle with driving aids (reversing camera, parking sensors), attend a « senior driving » course offered by Road Safety. In Paris, several driving schools offer particularly suitable automatic-gearbox refresher modules.

The senior refresher course

These courses, typically over 1 to 2 days, cost between €180 and €350 in Paris. They include a theory review (new signs, recent rules), on-road assessment by a qualified instructor and personalised feedback. Strongly recommended after 70 or after a long break from driving.

Senior Paris driving-school quote

DevisPermis.fr lists Paris schools offering senior-specific modules: refresher, automatic-gearbox training, advanced driving course. Fill our form in 2 minutes to receive up to 3 quotes tailored to your situation within 48 hours.