Question 1

What is the minimum age to get a driving license?

Accepted Answer

The minimum age is 17 to start driving lessons and 17 years 5 months to sit the exam (with parental consent before age 18). With accompanied driving (AAC), you can start from age 15 with a designated accompanying driver.

Question 2

How long does it take to get a car license (B)?

Accepted Answer

In the standard route, expect an average of 6 to 9 months from the start of training. Accompanied driving (AAC) can take 2 to 3 years in total but offers a higher pass rate and a reduced probationary period of 2 years.

Question 3

How many driving hours are mandatory?

Accepted Answer

The legal minimum is 20 hours of driving with an approved instructor for the standard car license. In practice, many students need 25 to 35 hours. For accompanied driving (AAC), 3,000 km with an accompanying driver is required.

Question 4

How long is the theory test (highway code) valid?

Accepted Answer

The general theory test (highway code) result is valid for 5 years. If you have not obtained your license within that period, you will need to retake it. The pass threshold is 35 correct answers out of 40.

Question 5

What is the difference between a manual and automatic license?

Accepted Answer

The manual car license (B) allows you to drive all types of vehicles. The automatic license only permits driving automatic vehicles. Automatic training is shorter (13h minimum) and cheaper. A 7-hour supplementary course removes the restriction.

Question 6

What are the benefits of accompanied driving (AAC)?

Accepted Answer

Accompanied driving offers a 72% first-attempt pass rate (vs 55% in the standard route), a reduced probationary period of 2 years (vs 3 years), and often a 15-50% reduction in car insurance premiums for young drivers.

Question 7

What is the pass rate for the driving test in France?

Accepted Answer

The average pass rate for the car license (B) is around 55% at first attempt. This varies by region (48%-65%) and route: 72% for AAC candidates, 58% in the standard route. Good preparation with an approved driving school significantly improves these chances.

Question 8

What is the probationary period and how long does it last?

Accepted Answer

The probationary period lasts 3 years in the standard route and 2 years in AAC. During this period, the points balance is 6 (instead of 12). The permitted blood alcohol level is 0.2 g/L, and motorway speed is limited to 110 km/h.

Question 9

Do you have to retake the full driving test after cancellation?

Accepted Answer

Yes. After a judicial cancellation, once the prohibition period has expired, you must retake both the theory test and the practical test. A medical check with an approved doctor is also mandatory. The new license issued is a probationary license (6 points).

Question 10

How much does a car license (B) cost in 2026?

Accepted Answer

In 2026, the manual car license costs an average of €1,500 to €2,800 depending on the region and driving school. The automatic license is cheaper (€1,200 to €2,000). Accompanied driving (AAC) costs €1,900 to €2,600 in total but delivers better results.

Question 11

Can you still use the CPF to fund a driving license in 2026?

Accepted Answer

No. Since January 2026, the car license is no longer eligible for the Compte Personnel de Formation (CPF). This ends a widespread practice (2 million licenses funded by CPF between 2020 and 2024). Only professional driving-related training remains eligible.

Question 12

What are the alternatives to the CPF to fund a driving license in 2026?

Accepted Answer

Several schemes are available: the €1/day license (interest-free loan for 15-25 year-olds), Regional Council grants (€300 to €1,200), France Travail grants for job-seekers, the Mobili-Pass grant from Action Logement for employees, and Mission Locale grants for 16-25 year-olds.

Question 13

How does the €1/day driving license scheme work?

Accepted Answer

The €1/day scheme is a zero-interest loan offered by state-partnered banks for young people aged 15-25. It can fund up to €1,200 in training costs, repayable over 24 to 36 months. A guarantor is usually required. Participating banks include Crédit Agricole, Caisse d'Épargne and BNP Paribas.

Question 14

Do regions offer grants for the driving license?

Accepted Answer

Yes, these grants have become essential since the end of CPF funding. Most French regions have specific schemes. Examples: Île-de-France (€600 for under-26s seeking employment), Nouvelle-Aquitaine (up to €1,000), Occitanie (50% capped at €800). Check your Regional Council's website.

Question 15

Can France Travail fund my driving license?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if you are a job-seeker and the license is necessary for your return to employment. Your France Travail advisor can validate a Training Action (AF) or Training-Related Expenses Grant (AFAF) covering all or part of the cost. Raise it at your next appointment.

Question 16

How does the theory test (highway code) work?

Accepted Answer

The general theory test (ETG) is a 40-question MCQ on a digital tablet. You need at least 35 correct answers. The test lasts about 30 minutes. In 2026, questions include topics on electric vehicles (regenerative braking, silent driving). Results are available within 48 hours.

Question 17

How does the practical driving exam work?

Accepted Answer

The exam lasts about 35 to 40 minutes on an unpredefined route. The examiner assesses 32 competencies: vehicle control, code compliance, manoeuvres, attitude towards other road users. One manoeuvre (parallel parking, U-turn or bay parking) is mandatory. In 2026, eco-responsible behaviour is also assessed.

Question 18

Which errors automatically result in failure at the exam?

Accepted Answer

Eliminating errors include: failing to stop at a red light, not yielding to a pedestrian, a dangerous manoeuvre, speeding by 10 km/h or more, using a phone, not wearing a seatbelt. These "EL" (eliminating) errors cause immediate failure regardless of the rest of the drive.

Question 19

How to prepare well for the theory test?

Accepted Answer

Best methods: use a government-approved code preparation app in daily revision mode, practice with full mock exams, systematically review incorrect answers. In 2026, ensure your app includes the new questions on electric vehicles.

Question 20

Is the use of a driving simulator recognised?

Accepted Answer

Some driving schools offer hours on an approved driving simulator. These hours can count towards the mandatory training (up to 5h for the car license). The simulator is particularly useful for the initial learning phase and for practising dangerous situations safely.

Question 21

What are the different motorcycle license categories?

Accepted Answer

There are several categories: AM (BSR/50cc, min. age 14), A1 (125cc, age 16, accessible via 7h training if car license held for 2 years), A2 (bikes up to 35 kW, age 18), and A (all engine sizes, age 24 or 2 years after A2 via bridging course). Each requires specific training and an exam.

Question 22

How do you upgrade from an A2 to an A motorcycle license?

Accepted Answer

After 2 years on the A2 license and from age 24, a bridging course of at least 7 hours allows you to obtain the A license without an additional exam. This training costs between €400 and €700 and lasts 1 to 2 days. The instructor then issues a certificate and the A license is registered.

Question 23

What is the 125cc training and who is it for?

Accepted Answer

The 125cc training allows car license holders of more than 2 years to ride motorcycles and scooters up to 125 cm³. The training lasts 7 hours and costs between €280 and €500. No exam is required. The authorisation is permanently attached to your car license.

Question 24

What equipment is mandatory to ride a motorcycle?

Accepted Answer

An approved helmet (ECE 22-06 standard or equivalent) is mandatory for all riders and passengers. Approved gloves have been mandatory since 2016. Wearing a jacket with protectors is strongly recommended. In 2026, airbag vests are growing in use but are not yet mandatory.

Question 25

Is a boat license required to sail in France?

Accepted Answer

The coastal boat license is mandatory to operate a motorboat of more than 6 hp at sea, more than 2 nautical miles from a shelter. On inland waterways, the inland license is required for boats over 4.5m or over 6 hp. Below these limits, no license is required.

Question 26

What is the difference between the coastal, offshore and inland waterway licenses?

Accepted Answer

The coastal license permits sea navigation up to 6 nautical miles from a shelter. The offshore license (extension) allows unlimited sea navigation, at night, with celestial navigation. The inland waterways license covers rivers, streams and canals. The three are independent and can be obtained in any order.

Question 27

How much does the coastal boat license cost in 2026?

Accepted Answer

The coastal boat license costs between €700 and €1,200 in 2026. Intensive weekend courses (2-3 days) are available in coastal towns. The training includes the boat theory test (30-question MCQ, pass mark 20/30) and a practical exam of about 45 minutes at sea.

Question 28

How do I recover points on my driving license?

Accepted Answer

There are two ways: wait (points return automatically after 2 years without a points-deducting offence), or complete a road safety awareness course (maximum 4 points recovered, one course per year, cost between €200 and €320). The course cannot take your total above 12 points.

Question 29

What is the difference between a suspension and a cancellation of the driving license?

Accepted Answer

A suspension is temporary (1 to 5 years depending on severity). When it ends, you get your license back. A cancellation is permanent: the license is revoked and must be retaken in full with a medical check. Invalidation for zero balance is a third measure: after 6 months, you can retake the theory test and recover 6 points.

Question 30

How do I exchange a foreign driving license for a French one?

Accepted Answer

If your country has a bilateral agreement with France (EU, Switzerland, Canada, Japan...), the exchange is done directly at the prefecture without retaking any tests. For other countries, you must retake the theory and practical exams. The application is made on the ANTS website with the required documents (original license + certified translation).

Question 31

How do I transfer my file from one driving school to another?

Accepted Answer

Your NEPH file belongs to you and can be transferred to any approved driving school. Request the leaving certificate from your previous school and hand it to the new one. Driving hours already completed are retained and may be recognised by the new school.

Question 32

Is the quote really free and with no commitment?

Accepted Answer

Yes, completely free and with no commitment. Filling in the 2-minute form does not obligate you to anything. A certified partner driving school will call you back within 48 hours to present a suitable course. No payment is requested at any stage.

Question 33

How does DevisPermis.fr work?

Accepted Answer

You fill in a 5-question form in 2 minutes (type of license, situation, city, availability, contact details). A certified partner driving school in your city receives your request and calls you back within 48 hours to offer a personalised course. You are not committed to anything.

Question 34

Which cities does DevisPermis.fr cover?

Accepted Answer

DevisPermis.fr covers more than 490 French cities, from major metropolitan areas to medium-sized towns. If your city is not listed, we can still connect you with a partner driving school in the nearest city.

Question 35

How soon will I be called back after filling in the form?

Accepted Answer

A partner driving school will contact you within 48 hours (excluding Sundays and public holidays). In practice, the call often happens on the same day for morning requests. You can also indicate your availability in the form to be called back at the best time.

Question 36

How are partner driving schools selected?

Accepted Answer

All DevisPermis.fr partner driving schools are approved by the prefecture and have signed our quality charter. We regularly check pass rates and candidate satisfaction. Only schools maintaining a satisfactory level of service remain in our network.

Question 37

What is the NEPH number and how to obtain it?

Accepted Answer

The NEPH (Numéro d'Enregistrement Préfectoral Harmonisé) is your unique identifier for all driving-license administrative procedures in France. It is issued by the ANTS after registration of your file (or via your driving school). It stays with your file for life, including when changing school or department. It appears on every certificate and your final license.

Question 38

What is the preliminary evaluation at the driving school?

Accepted Answer

The initial assessment is a mandatory 1-hour session before contract signing. It estimates the number of hours needed based on your prior experience, accompanied driving, similar vehicle, perception and anticipation. It determines the course offered (20h legal minimum, 30 to 35h average). The result also builds your learning logbook.

Question 39

What is the learning logbook (livret)?

Accepted Answer

The learning logbook tracks your progress across the 4 assessed competencies: vehicle control, normal traffic conditions, difficult conditions, autonomous and safe driving. It is filled in by your instructor during lessons and handed to the inspecteur du permis de conduire at the practical exam. It certifies that mandatory training has been followed.

Question 40

How to convert an automatic license into a manual license?

Accepted Answer

After at least 3 months of automatic driving, you can take a 7-hour complementary course at an approved school. No theory or practical exam, simple certificate. The instructor submits to the ANTS and your license is updated (code 78 removed). Average 2026 rate: €400 to €700. Required if you plan to rent or drive a manual vehicle.

Question 41

What is new for the highway code in 2026?

Accepted Answer

In 2026, the French Highway Code includes more questions about electric vehicles (regenerative braking, silent driving), motorised personal mobility devices (EDPM, e-scooters), low emission zones (ZFE) and Crit'Air stickers. Pass mark remains 35 out of 40, and the exam is taken with a state-approved operator.

Question 42

Where can the highway code test be taken?

Accepted Answer

Since the 2016 liberalisation, the highway code exam (ETG) is run by several state-approved private operators: La Poste is one of the most widespread with 1000+ rooms, alongside SGS (Objectif Code), Pointcode and others. Official fee is €30 and booking is online on the chosen operator's website. Results by email within 24 to 48 hours.

Question 43

What to do in case of loss or theft of the driving license?

Accepted Answer

The procedure is fully online on the ANTS website. For theft, prior declaration at the police station. Required documents: ID, proof of address, digital ID photo, €25 fiscal stamp. A receipt is issued while awaiting the new license (2 to 4 weeks). This receipt acts as a driving license for 2 months.

Question 44

How long is the French driving license valid?

Accepted Answer

Since 2013, French driving licenses are issued in plastic-card format with an embedded chip and have a 15-year administrative validity for categories AM, A, B and BE (simple renewal request, no exam or medical). Professional licenses (C, D and sub-categories) are valid 5 years with mandatory medical exam at an approved doctor for renewal.

Question 45

Is the €500 apprentice grant still available?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The €500 flat-rate grant for adult apprentices preparing the B license remains in force in 2026. It is combinable with other schemes (€1/day loan, regional grant). Apply via your training centre or employer, with a driving-school enrolment certificate. Payment is made directly to the school or the beneficiary. Official page on Service Public.

Question 46

What is the Action Logement Mobili-Pass grant?

Accepted Answer

Mobili-Pass is an Action Logement subsidy covering up to €3,500 of professional mobility expenses, including the driving license if required for employment. Conditions: employee of a private non-agricultural company with 10+ staff, job relocation over 70 km or 1h15 commute. To be claimed within 6 months of the mobility.

Question 47

Can the Mission Locale help fund the driving license?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Missions Locales, present throughout France, support 16-25 year-olds on their professional integration path. They can mobilise schemes to fund all or part of the license: Contrat d'Engagement Jeune (ex-Garantie Jeunes), regional mobility grants, Departmental Youth Support Fund (FAJ). Contact the Mission Locale of your town for a free interview.

Question 48

Can an employer fund an employee's driving license?

Accepted Answer

Yes, via the skills development plan when the license is essential to the role (delivery, mobile sales rep, driver, ambulance driver...). The company CPF or training budget can be used. In apprenticeship or professionalisation contracts, the OPCO often covers the license (€800 to €1,500 flat). To discuss at annual review or with HR.

Question 49

Who are the driving license inspectors (IPCSR)?

Accepted Answer

IPCSR are civil servants of the Ministry of the Interior trained at INSERR (National Institute of Road Safety and Research). Their mission: assess candidates using the 32-competency grid validated by the Sécurité routière. About 1,500 IPCSR in France. An inspector may conduct 12 to 13 exams a day.

Question 50

How does the RdvPermis platform work?

Accepted Answer

RdvPermis is the national practical-exam booking platform, rolled out progressively by department since 2021. It is managed by the driving school (candidates cannot access it directly). It centralises available slots and enables fairer distribution between schools, especially in high-demand areas like Paris or Île-de-France.

Question 51

How many times can the practical exam be retaken after failure?

Accepted Answer

No legal limit. In practice, after failure, you must wait for the next available date (average 2 to 4 months in France, up to 4 to 5 months in Paris). Each new attempt usually requires a few extra hours of driving with the school. Candidates who have failed twice generally benefit from priority on the RdvPermis platform.

Question 52

Is a colour-blindness test required for the driving license?

Accepted Answer

For the B license, no vision test is mandatory: the ability to distinguish traffic lights is assumed. For professional licenses (C, D) and heavy-vehicle licenses, a medical exam at an approved doctor is mandatory and includes a visual check (acuity and visual field). If you have any concern about your vision, ask an ophthalmologist before training.

Question 53

What is the Motorcycle Theory Test (ETM)?

Accepted Answer

Since March 2020, A1 and A2 candidates take the ETM, a motorcycle-specific code exam (40 questions, pass 35/40) distinct from the car code. Topics: motorcycle dynamics, equipment, blind spots, lane splitting, slippery road driving, specific signs, specific two-wheeler offences. €30 fee, bookable via La Poste or other approved operators.

Question 54

What is the full mandatory motorcycle gear in France?

Accepted Answer

Mandatory: helmet approved to ECE 22-06 standard (penalty €135 + 3 points if missing), CE-approved gloves (EN 13594 standard), high-visibility vest present in the vehicle (not worn except emergency stop). Strongly recommended: jacket with elbow, shoulder and back protectors (EN 17092), suitable trousers with knee protectors, ankle-covering boots. In winter, thermal waterproof gear.

Question 55

What is direct access to the A license at 24?

Accepted Answer

Candidates aged 24+ can directly access the full A license (no power limit) without going through A2. Training is longer (25 to 30 hours in practice recommended). It includes ETM, plateau and traffic, with a three-part final exam. Average 2026 rate: €1,200 to €1,500. This route suits adults wanting directly a powerful motorcycle.

Question 56

What are 125cc equivalences for electric scooters?

Accepted Answer

In 2026, continuous electric power (in kW) determines the category. Up to 4 kW = 50cc equivalent (AM / BSR license sufficient), 4 to 11 kW = 125cc equivalent (A1 license or 7h training if B license), 11 to 35 kW = A2 equivalent, above = A. Electric scooters eligible for the ecological bonus (Silence S01, NIU MQi, Super SOCO TC Max...) are mostly in the 125cc equivalent category.

Question 57

What specific knowledge is needed for the offshore license?

Accepted Answer

The offshore license (extension of coastal) allows unlimited-distance sailing, day and night. The exclusively theoretical training adds: celestial navigation (position calculations), advanced marine meteorology, routing, current and tide calculations, sextant use, nautical chart understanding, international maritime collision rules. Paper questionnaire exam, 12/20 average required.

Question 58

Is a license required to ride a jet-ski (PWC)?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The coastal boat license (or coastal option of the pleasure license) is mandatory to ride a Personal Watercraft (PWC, jet-ski) more than 300 metres from shore. Under 300 metres no license is required but speed limited to 5 knots. Rental forbidden to minors; a 1 to 2-hour briefing is often required by the rental provider even with a license.

Question 59

What are the allowed blood alcohol limits and penalties?

Accepted Answer

In France: 0.5 g/L of blood for experienced drivers, 0.2 g/L for young (probationary) drivers. Between 0.5 and 0.8 g/L: €135 fine + 6 points off. Above 0.8 g/L: offence, up to €4,500 fine, 2 years prison, license suspension up to 3 years, possible cancellation. Source: Sécurité routière. A standard drink (10 g alcohol) raises blood alcohol by 0.2 to 0.25 g/L on average.

Question 60

What are the penalties for driving under drugs?

Accepted Answer

Driving under the influence of drugs (cannabis, cocaine, ecstasy, opiates, amphetamines) is an offence in France regardless of dose. Penalties: €200 fixed fine or up to €4,500, 6 points off, license suspension or cancellation, up to 2 years prison. A roadside saliva test is carried out, confirmed by blood analysis if contested. ONISR: drugs are involved in 13% of fatal accidents.

Question 61

Is phone use allowed at the wheel with a hands-free kit?

Accepted Answer

Since 2015, any handheld phone use (calls, SMS, manipulation) is punished €135 and 3 points off. Earpieces and headphones are also forbidden since 2015. Only the vehicle-integrated hands-free kit (Bluetooth, speakers) is allowed. In 2026, the law allows immediate license suspension if the phone offence is combined with another offence (speeding, stop, etc.).

Question 62

What is the mandatory following distance?

Accepted Answer

The following distance must be at least 2 seconds, about 50 metres at 90 km/h and 70 metres at 130 km/h. On motorway, it is materialised by white lines: keep at least 2 lines of distance. Non-compliance: €135 and 3 points off. Intelligent tower cameras deployed since 2023 can automatically detect following-distance breaches.

Question 63

Is fatigue at the wheel a major accident cause?

Accepted Answer

Yes. According to the ONISR, drowsiness or fatigue is involved in 8 to 10 % of fatal accidents, up to 30 % on motorway where it is the first cause of fatal accidents. Warning signs: repeated yawning, heavy eyelids, visual hallucinations, jerky driving. Official Sécurité routière advice: 15 to 20-minute break every 2 hours, do not drive after 17 h awake, sleep at least 7 h before a long trip.

Question 64

Is the seatbelt mandatory for everyone?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the seatbelt is mandatory at the front since 1973 and at the rear since 1990 in cities (1991 outside cities) for all passengers. Non-use: €135 and 3 points off for the driver (adult); €135 per concerned adult passenger. For children under 10, approved restraint device (car seat or booster) required. Source: Sécurité routière.

FAQ Driving Licence: price, exam, CPF, motorcycle, boat

Car License (B)

What is the minimum age to get a driving license?

How long does it take to get a car license (B)?

How many driving hours are mandatory?

How long is the theory test (highway code) valid?

What is the difference between a manual and automatic license?

What are the benefits of accompanied driving (AAC)?

What is the pass rate for the driving test in France?

What is the probationary period and how long does it last?

Do you have to retake the full driving test after cancellation?

What is the NEPH number and how to obtain it?

What is the preliminary evaluation at the driving school?

What is the learning logbook (livret)?

How to convert an automatic license into a manual license?

What is new for the highway code in 2026?

Where can the highway code test be taken?

What to do in case of loss or theft of the driving license?

How long is the French driving license valid?

License cancelled: how long before being able to retake it?

At what age can accompanied driving (AAC) start?

Financing

How much does a car license (B) cost in 2026?

Can you still use the CPF to fund a driving license in 2026?

What are the alternatives to the CPF to fund a driving license in 2026?

How does the €1/day driving license scheme work?

Do regions offer grants for the driving license?

Can France Travail fund my driving license?

Is the €500 apprentice grant still available?

What is the Action Logement Mobili-Pass grant?

Can the Mission Locale help fund the driving license?

Can an employer fund an employee's driving license?

How much does the B license cost on average in 2026?

How much does the highway code cost in 2026?

Where to find the cheapest driving license?

Why such price differences between driving schools?

How much does accompanied driving (AAC) cost in 2026?

How to use the CPF for the driving license in 2026?

Who can benefit from the €1 per day license?

Does France Travail fund the driving license?

License in apprenticeship: who pays for apprentices?

What Mission Locale grants for young people aged 16-25?

What amount is available on Mon Compte Formation in 2026?

Is there a specific license grant for disabled people?

Exam & Training

How does the theory test (highway code) work?

How does the practical driving exam work?

Which errors automatically result in failure at the exam?

How to prepare well for the theory test?

Is the use of a driving simulator recognised?

Who are the driving license inspectors (IPCSR)?

How does the RdvPermis platform work?

How many times can the practical exam be retaken after failure?

Is a colour-blindness test required for the driving license?

How long does it take to get the B driving license?

What is the delay to retake the practical exam after failure?

How many mistakes maximum are allowed in the highway code?

What verification questions are asked at the practical exam?

How long is the highway code valid after obtaining it?

How long does the practical B license exam last?

How to book a code exam session?

Motorcycle

What are the different motorcycle license categories?

How do you upgrade from an A2 to an A motorcycle license?

What is the 125cc training and who is it for?

What equipment is mandatory to ride a motorcycle?

What is the Motorcycle Theory Test (ETM)?

What is the full mandatory motorcycle gear in France?

What is direct access to the A license at 24?

What are 125cc equivalences for electric scooters?

What is the price of the A2 motorcycle license in 2026?

What difference between A and A2 motorcycle licenses?

A2 to A bridging: what conditions?

125 cc training: why are 7 hours mandatory?

From what age can the BSR (AM category) be taken?

Which license to ride an electric scooter?

Which motorcycle helmet standard is mandatory in 2026?

Boat

Is a boat license required to sail in France?

What is the difference between the coastal, offshore and inland waterway licenses?