Minibus 16 seats max
Class D1 License
The Class D1 license is the intermediate tier for minibuses up to 16 seats (9 to 16 passengers, vehicle 8 m max). More accessible than the full Class D license, the Class D1 license fits the needs of associations, youth organisations, medico-social structures and light school transport on a 16-seat minibus. Training is shorter than a full Class D license, and the Class D1 entry-level price starts from EUR 2,200 excluding FIMO.
The essentials
The French Class D1 license is the intermediate category for minibuses up to 16 seats (vehicle 8 m maximum). More accessible than the full Class D license which has no passenger limit, the Class D1 license costs EUR 2,200 to EUR 4,500 (FIMO Passengers extra for professional use). Minimum age 21, Heavy Group medical exam mandatory. Ideal for sports clubs, youth centres, medical-social structures and school shuttle transport on a 16-seat minibus.
Pricing and rates for Class D1 License
The price of the Class D1 license ranges from €2,500 to €4,500 depending on the formula, with entry-level packages from €2,200 excluding FIMO. The Class D1 license remains more moderate than the full Class D license because practical training on a 16-seat minibus (8 m max) is shorter than on a coach. The Class D1 fee includes the Heavy Group code, practical training on minibus, manoeuvring exercises, traffic riding, the Heavy Group medical examination with a Prefecture-approved doctor (~€36), and exam presentation. Combinable aids: CPF via Mon Compte Formation, AIF France Travail for retraining, regional aids for in-tension jobs (collective transport, medico-social support, school transport). The Class D1 license is often the license sought by sports associations, youth shelters and medico-social structures operating a 16-seat minibus.
FIMO and CPF funding
FIMO Voyageurs remains mandatory to practice professionally with the Class D1 license (regular school transport, paid associative transport, 16-seat minibus shuttle). Duration: 140 hours over 4 weeks. CPF funding via Mon Compte Formation can cover all or part of the Class D1 license + FIMO depending on your accumulated rights. France Travail (AIF) often covers 100% for jobseekers in retraining. For school transport, the school transport certificate (article R442-1 of the Highway Code) is also required in addition to D1+FIMO. Mandatory renewal via FCO Voyageurs (35h, every 5 years), often paid by the employer.
How it works
01
File & medical
Prefecture file and mandatory medical exam.
02
Theory
Passenger transport specific ETG.
03
Practical
Minibus driving, manoeuvres and passenger handling.
04
Exam
Manoeuvring + on-road test with the inspector.
What's included
- Heavy group theory test
- Minibus practical training (≤ 8m)
- Manoeuvring and on-road preparation
- Entry for official exams
Prerequisites
- Minimum age 21
- Valid Category B driving license
- Heavy group medical fitness
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between D and D1?
D1 is limited to 9 to 16 passengers (≤ 8m). The full D has no passenger limit. D1 is available from 21; the D is usually available from 24.
Can I tow a trailer with D1?
Yes, with an additional D1E endorsement. Without it, the trailer is capped at 750 kg.
Is D1 enough for school transport?
Yes for minibuses. A FIMO Voyageurs is also required if the activity is professional and regular. For school transport, the school transport certificate (R442-1 of the Highway Code) is also mandatory in addition to D1+FIMO.
What funding is available for the D1 license?
CPF via Mon Compte Formation, France Travail (especially for retraining), regional aids for in-demand transport jobs. The D1 is eligible for all D license aids, but with a more moderate cost (often €2,500 to €4,500), self-funding is also accessible. See conditions on Service Public.
D1 medical examination validity?
Same as the D license: 5 years before age 60, 2 years after. Renewal at a prefecture-approved doctor (list on Service Public). Without a valid medical, professional use of the D1 is forbidden even if your license mentions it. Visit cost: ~€36, set by decree.
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