Rigid truck over 3.5 tonnes
Class C License
The Category C license is the entry-level heavy goods license: it authorises driving a rigid vehicle over 3.5 tonnes (GVW) without a heavy trailer. It is the gateway to delivery driver, construction driver, removals or regional transport jobs. The course combines a dedicated theory test, practical training and FIMO Marchandises for professional activity.
The essentials
The French Class C licence is the basic HGV licence, authorising the driving of a rigid truck over 3.5 tonnes (GVW), with no heavy trailer, up to 32 tonnes. Training combines Heavy Group code, practical on rigid (~35h) and FIMO Goods (140h) for professional use: full bundle between EUR 4,500 and EUR 6,500 in 2026. Minimum age 21 (18 with professional certificate), Heavy Group medical exam mandatory.
Pricing and rates for Class C License
The price of the Category C license ranges from €2,500 to €5,500 depending on the formula. License C alone (Heavy Group code + ~35h of practical training plus manoeuvring and traffic riding + cargo securing and tachograph): €2,500 to €4,000. Pack license C + FIMO Marchandises (140h): €4,500 to €6,500. The fee includes the Heavy Group medical examination with a Prefecture-approved doctor (~€36), the freight-transport-specific code, practical training on rigid vehicles >3.5 tonnes, and exam presentation. Aids: CPF via Mon Compte Formation, France Travail (100% for retraining toward transport, in-tension job), AFT (Association for Transport Vocational Training Development), OPCO Mobilités.
FIMO and CPF funding
FIMO Marchandises (Mandatory Initial Minimum Training) is mandatory to practice professionally with the C license (article R3221-21 of the Transport Code). Duration: 140 hours over 4 weeks. Modules: rational driving, regulatory application, health/safety, transport quality. CPF funding via Mon Compte Formation can cover all or part depending on your rights. France Travail often covers 100% for jobseekers in retraining toward road transport. FCO Marchandises (35h every 5 years) maintains the right to practice professionally. Without valid FCO, professional use is forbidden even with a valid C license.
How it works
01
Medical & file
Heavy group medical check + prefecture file.
02
Theory
ETG adapted to goods transport.
03
Practical
Rigid truck handling, manoeuvres, on-road and motorway driving.
04
FIMO Marchandises
Mandatory 140h qualification to work as a professional driver.
What's included
- Heavy group theory test
- ~35 hours of practical driving (manoeuvres + on-road)
- Vehicle checks training (load securing, tachograph)
- Optional FIMO Marchandises (140h)
- Entry for official exams
Prerequisites
- Minimum age 21 (18 with a vocational qualification)
- Valid Category B driving license
- Mandatory heavy group medical fitness
Frequently asked questions
How much does the C license cost?
On quote: typically between €2,500 and €5,500 depending on the package. CPF and Pôle Emploi / AFT funding are often available.
Can I tow a trailer with the C license?
Yes up to 750 kg. Above that, the CE (super heavy) license is required.
Can I go directly to CE without C?
No. The Category C is a mandatory prerequisite for CE training (goods vehicle + trailer). You must hold a valid C license before starting CE training. No exceptions (article R221-3 of the Highway Code).
FIMO Marchandises: duration and frequency?
The FIMO Marchandises (140 hours) is mandatory to practise professionally with the C license. It is then renewed via the FCO Marchandises (35 hours, every 5 years). Without a valid FCO, professional use is forbidden even if the C license remains valid. The CPF via Mon Compte Formation can fund the FIMO and FCO.
Heavy-group medical examination: what monitoring?
Mandatory examination at a prefecture-approved doctor before issuing the C license, then renewed every 5 years before age 60, then every 2 years. Check: cardio, vision (5/10 min acuity), hearing, alcohol/drug screening. Cost: ~€36. Doctor list available on Service Public or the prefecture portal. Without an up-to-date check, automatic suspension of heavy-group driving rights.
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