Training
Truck License
Class C truck license for rigid trucks up to 32 tonnes, CE for super-heavy articulated combinations: directly access long-haul, regional or tipper driver careers. FIMO Goods training and CQC card included. CPF, France Travail / AIF or OPCO funding depending on your status. Free quote, 48h callback.
The essentials
The French HGV license covers two categories: Class C for rigid trucks up to 32 tonnes (from age 21, or 18 with the FIMO), and Class CE for super-heavy articulated combinations (semi-trailers) after obtaining the C. Training costs EUR 3,000 to EUR 5,000 for the C license, FIMO Goods (140h) included, and can be fully funded via France Travail, the CPF or a transport OPCO. Medical exam by an approved doctor is mandatory.
Everything about the truck license
The French HGV license opens access to a key profession in the French economy: goods transport. With over 50,000 unfilled jobs every year and constant sector growth, hiring prospects are exceptional. The C license (rigid truck) covers trucks up to 32 tonnes, essential for local transport, urban delivery or skip lorries. The CE license (articulated) adds trailer capability, allowing combinations up to 44 tonnes - the foundation of long-distance and international transport. Additionally, the FIMO Marchandises (140h) makes the trucker role operational. DevisPermis compares CPF-eligible training centres and guides you to financial aid (CPF via Mon Compte Formation, France Travail, OPCO Mobilités, Regions).
Why get an HGV license?
- Very high-demand sector: over 50,000 openings per year, fast hiring guaranteed.
- Attractive salary: €1,900 to €2,500 net as a beginner, up to €3,500 net on long haul or specialities.
- Evolving career: international trucker, specialised transport (tanker, reefer, hazardous materials).
- 100% funding available: CPF, Pôle Emploi, AFT, Regions - out-of-pocket cost often near zero.
Who is this course for?
- Jobseekers looking for a fast (3 to 6 months) and well-paid career change.
- Candidates from age 18 via the Titre Pro Conducteur Routier (CTRMV), 21 for the standard path.
- Transport sector employees wanting to move up: delivery staff, warehouse operators.
- Career changers seeking a stable job with real employment opportunities.
How does the training work?
- Mandatory medical exam with a prefecture-approved doctor (heavy group aptitude).
- Theory: specific large-vehicle code (60 questions).
- Practical C license: 35h minimum on rigid truck (off-road + on-road).
- Practical CE license: 35h minimum on articulated set, after obtaining C.
- FIMO Marchandises (140h) if you aim for professional practice, then FCO 35h every 5 years.
Our tips to choose wisely
- Check the centre is Qualiopi-certified: essential for CPF or France Travail funding.
- Prefer a modern fleet: a recent truck (Scania, Volvo, Renault T) makes training more realistic.
- Ask for package details: driver card (€80), psycho-technical (€100), medical - are they included?
- A good centre often offers employment support at the end: partnerships with hiring carriers.
- List of prefecture-approved doctors for the heavy-group medical exam available on Service Public or via your prefecture.
Truck License courses available
2 courses01
Choose your course
Select the training that fits your project and profile.
02
Receive your quote
Answer 5 questions in 2 minutes. An advisor calls you back within 48h*.
03
Start your training
Enrol in the nearest partner driving school.
*Excluding Sundays and public holidays.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need the C license before the CE?
Yes. The Category C license (rigid truck) is a mandatory prerequisite for the CE training. You cannot go directly to the CE without the C.
What funding options exist for the HGV license?
CPF, Pôle Emploi (AIF, POEI), Transport OPCOs (AFT-Iftim) and French regions offer many schemes covering all or part of the cost, especially for jobseekers and career changers.
What is the difference between FIMO and FCO?
FIMO (Mandatory Initial Training, 140 hours) is the entry qualification to drive professionally. FCO (Mandatory Continuing Training, 35 hours) is the 5-year renewal required to keep the professional driving rights active.
From what age can I take the C license?
The C license is accessible from age 21 in the standard path. It can be obtained from age 18 as part of a Titre Professionnel Conducteur Routier (CTRMV), CPF- and Pôle Emploi-recognised, complete 3 to 4 month training.
How much does an HGV license cost in France?
The C license costs between €2500 and €4000, the CE license between €2000 and €3500. FIMO Marchandises adds around €2,500. The full package is often 100% funded for jobseekers.
What is an HGV driver salary?
A starting HGV driver earns €1,900 to €2,200 net per month. With experience, night/weekend bonuses and long haul, salary can reach €2,800 to €3,500 net. Specialised transport (tanker, ADR) pays even more.
How long does C + CE + FIMO training actually take?
Full path: 4 to 6 months depending on pace. The intensive Titre Pro path combines both licenses + FIMO in 4 months. Continuous pace: 2 months for C, 1 month for CE, 5 weeks for FIMO.
What does FIMO Marchandises contain exactly?
FIMO (140h) covers: European social regulations (driving and rest times), road safety, eco-driving, transport document management, risk prevention, health and working conditions. Mandatory since 2008 to drive professionally.
Are there guaranteed job opportunities after?
The sector is in very high demand: most training organisations partnered with employers offer a post-training hiring commitment. Pôle Emploi may condition funding on a hiring promise (POEI).
How long is the HGV license valid?
The C/CE license must be renewed every 5 years (medical + qualification card) up to age 60, then every 2 years. The FCO (35h) also every 5 years to keep your professional rights active.