In France, the driving license medical exam mainly concerns professional drivers and holders of heavy vehicle licenses, as well as anyone whose license was suspended for medical or alcohol-related reasons. In Paris in 2026, this exam must be conducted by a doctor approved by the police prefecture, either in a private practice or in a primary medical commission. Here is the complete guide to prepare for the exam, understand the fees, and plan the license renewal.
Who needs the medical exam in Paris?
The medical exam is not automatic for all senior drivers. It is required in specific situations: holders of C, D, CE, DE and Taxi-VTC licenses, drivers whose license was suspended for alcohol, drugs or medical reasons, and individuals with certain conditions (insulin-dependent diabetes, heart disorders, epilepsy, sleep apnea). For the standard B license, no age-based mandatory exam exists in France, unlike in several neighbouring EU countries.
Finding an approved doctor in Paris
The Paris police prefecture publishes the official list of approved doctors practicing in the 20 districts every year. This list is available on the prefecture website (driving and road safety section) and at district town halls. Approved practices are concentrated mainly in the 8th, 9th, 11th, 15th and 17th districts, but every area has practitioners. Appointments are booked directly by phone or via online medical booking platforms.
Fees and exam process
The fee for a driving license medical exam is set by ministerial decree: 36 euros when performed by an approved doctor in a city practice. In a primary medical commission (prefecture), it is free but waiting times can reach several months. Some practices charge close to 50 euros for consultations including additional tests (ECG, capillary blood glucose). The exam lasts about 30 minutes.
Tests performed
The doctor assesses visual acuity (with or without correction), peripheral vision, hearing, joint mobility, reflexes, blood pressure and conducts a full medical interview. They also review medical history and current treatments, as some medications are incompatible with driving. A urine test may be requested in case of suspension for drugs.
Medical certificate validity
Certificate validity depends on the license category and the driver's age. For a heavy professional license: 5 years until age 60, 2 years between 60 and 76, then 1 year beyond. For Taxi-VTC licenses, the period is 5 years before 60 and 2 years after. Following an alcohol-related suspension, the doctor may issue an authorization valid from 6 months to 3 years depending on the context.
Renewal with the Cerfa 14880 form
License renewal after the medical exam is fully completed online on the ANTS website (national agency for secure documents). The driver must create a user account, scan the Cerfa 14880 medical opinion issued by the approved doctor, provide an approved ID photo (digital photo booth) and sign digitally. Average processing time is 2 to 4 weeks, and the new biometric license is sent by tracked mail to the home. No prefecture visit is required.
Documents to prepare
For the exam: old license, ID document, usual glasses or lenses, proof of address, current prescriptions. For the ANTS procedure: medical opinion, digital photo, proof of address less than 6 months old, old license scanned front and back.
What to do if the doctor refuses?
If the doctor considers fitness to drive is not guaranteed, they may declare temporary unfitness (with care recommendations) or permanent unfitness. The driver can then appeal to the prefecture medical appeal commission within 2 months. A counter-expertise by a second approved doctor may be requested. In case of fitness with restrictions, notes are added to the license (glasses required, daytime driving only, automatic transmission).
Practical tips to prepare for the exam
Book the appointment at least 2 months before the license expires, as waiting times can be long in the Paris area. Bring a recent eye specialist report if you are over 70, it reassures the doctor about your vision. Avoid alcohol or sedatives in the 24 hours before the exam. If you are on medication, ask your treating doctor for a letter confirming you are stabilized. Finally, keep the medical opinion safe: without this document, ANTS renewal is impossible.
Next step
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