The three main categories of mandatory exam
1. Professional licences (C, CE, D, DE, taxi, VTC)
Mandatory at first registration and each renewal (5 years up to age 60, 2 years between 60 and 76, 1 year after 76). Sight, hearing, cardiovascular, neurological. 2026 cost: €50 excluding insurance.
2. After suspension, cancellation or invalidation
The exam is required to recover driving rights after a medical suspension, a 40 km/h+ excess, an alcohol/drugs offence, a 48SI (cancellation). Often paired with psychotechnical tests (€90–120).
3. Specific medical fitness (disability, illness, medication)
Insulin-dependent diabetes, epilepsy, cardiac disorders, degenerative diseases, amputation, etc. Prior exam to confirm fitness and possibly add restrictive mentions on the licence (e.g. daytime driving only).
No mandatory exam for other categories in France
In 2026, France is one of the few European countries not imposing periodic medical exams for private B/motorcycle licences. Reform plans discussed in 2023–2024 were dropped. Only a case-by-case exam on report (doctor, family, police) can be required by the prefect.
How does the exam work?
It lasts 15–30 minutes: medical questionnaire, sight test (corrected or not), hearing, blood pressure, balance, questions on current treatments and history. The doctor issues a Cerfa 14880 stating fitness or a motivated refusal.
Where to find an approved doctor?
Consult the list on your department prefecture website (section "Approved doctors"). Book directly: no need to go through your regular GP. Note: some slots are saturated at 4–6 weeks.
What if fitness is refused?
Counter-expertise with the medical commission
A refusal can be contested via appeal to the primary medical commission (prefecture). Decision within 4–8 weeks. Success rate: around 30% if a new specialist is consulted.
Appeal to the administrative court
After a second refusal, you can file with the administrative court. Cost with a lawyer: €1,500–2,500. Procedure can last 6–18 months.
Plan ahead to avoid surprises
For transport jobs, schedule your exam 3–4 months before licence expiry. Inform your GP of any health changes (glasses, hearing aid, new treatment): they can refer you to a specialist before the mandatory exam.
Next step
How to get the right support?
DevisPermis.fr connects you for free with a certified driving school near you. Answer 5 questions in 2 minutes, and an advisor will call you back within 48h* to offer a tailored package.
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