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 preparation apps (En Voiture Simone, iCode, PermisOnline) 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 300 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.

Frequently asked questions

Car License (B)