The complete, versatile course
Class B Manual Gearbox
The manual gearbox license (B) is the classic driving license allowing you to drive all light vehicles under 3.5 tonnes (PTAC). It is the most versatile course: once obtained, you can drive both manual and automatic cars, and it is recognised throughout the EU thanks to the Vienna Convention. The course has two parts: the General Theory Test (ETG) at an approved operator like La Poste, Objectif Code SGS or Pointcode, then practical driving lessons (20 hours minimum). According to ONISR, the national pass rate for the B license is around 58% in 2026. You can fund the training via your CPF on Mon Compte Formation, the Permis 1€/jour scheme, or France Travail aid.
The essentials
The French manual gearbox Class B licence is the standard car driving licence, authorising all light vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes (manual and automatic). The legal minimum is 20 driving hours, but the actual national average is 35 hours (source ONISR). 2026 prices range from EUR 1,500 to EUR 2,700 depending on city and additional hours. CPF financing available via Mon Compte Formation, plus the State EUR 1/day scheme.
Pricing and rates for Class B Manual Gearbox
The average price for the manual gearbox B license ranges from €1,500 to €2,000 for 30 hours of driving, and €1,800 to €2,700 depending on the city and additional hours required (Paris at the high end). The fee includes the highway code, ANTS registration, the 20-hour minimum package and exam presentation. Extra hours: €45 to €60/hour. To reduce the cost, you can use your CPF via Mon Compte Formation, the State Permis 1€/jour scheme (up to €1,200), France Travail aid if you are a jobseeker, or regional grants (Île-de-France, Hauts-de-France, Nouvelle-Aquitaine).
Intensive training
Intensive training for the manual B license takes 4 to 8 weeks with a daily rhythm of 4 to 6 driving hours. It suits candidates with full-time availability (between two jobs, students on holiday, gap-year youth) or professionals needing the license quickly for a job. Allow €200 to €400 extra vs the standard route for priority on exam slots and instructor availability. The highway code can also be prepared intensively over 1 to 2 weeks via an online platform before sitting it at La Poste, Objectif Code SGS or Pointcode.
Manual vs automatic
Manual vs automatic: the manual B license requires 20 driving hours minimum (vs 13h for automatic) and costs €400 to €600 more. In return, it lets you drive ALL light vehicles, manual and automatic, with no restriction. The automatic B license limits you to automatic transmission only (code 78 in field 12). For 70 to 80% of candidates, manual remains relevant: wider used-car market, lower vehicle purchase prices, sometimes required for professional driving (delivery, ride-hail). In urban areas with an electric-vehicle plan, automatic becomes the logical choice.
How it works
01
Registration & file
Opening your NEPH file, issuing your logbook and scheduling your first sessions.
02
Highway code
Learning the highway code via classroom or a dedicated app. Sit the ETG when ready.
03
Driving lessons
Minimum 20 hours with an approved instructor. Progress is adapted to your level and pace.
04
Practical exam
Take the practical driving test. Your instructor accompanies you to the test centre.
What's included
- Preliminary driving assessment
- ANTS registration and NEPH file
- Unlimited highway code sessions
- Minimum 20 hours driving (standard route)
- Highway code theory test (ETG)
- Practical driving exam
Prerequisites
- Be at least 17 years old (accompanied driving AAC from age 15)
- Pass the highway code theory test (ETG)
- Provide proof of identity and address
- Undergo a preliminary driving assessment
Frequently asked questions
How much does a manual gearbox license cost?
The national range is between €1800 and €2700. This varies by city, number of hours needed and driving school. Request a free quote for prices near you.
How long does it take to get a car license?
On average 6 to 9 months via the standard route. With accompanied driving (AAC from age 15) this can be reduced. It depends on your availability and progress.
Can I drive an automatic car with a manual license?
Yes, the manual gearbox license authorises you to drive all types of light vehicles - manual and automatic. This is its main advantage over the automatic license.
What is the difference between the standard route and accompanied driving?
The standard route is available from age 17. Accompanied driving (AAC) is available from age 15 and allows you to build experience with a supervisor before turning 18, often reducing the time to pass.
Can I finance a manual license with CPF?
Some parts of the training are eligible for the Personal Training Account (CPF), particularly highway code preparation in approved centres. Ask your partner driving school for available options.
What happens if I fail the practical exam?
If you fail, you can retake after a minimum 2-month gap during which you must complete at least 1 hour of driving with an instructor. Most candidates pass on the 2nd or 3rd attempt. The retake slot is allocated via the RdvPermis platform or by your driving school.
How many points does the B license start with?
The probationary license starts with 6 points for 3 years (reduced to 2 years after accompanied driving AAC). You earn 2 points per year without infraction, until reaching the 12-point cap at the end of the probationary period. You can check your balance on Mes Points Permis with FranceConnect.
Is a medical check required for the B license?
No medical check is required for the standard B license route. A check with an approved doctor is only mandatory in case of cancellation for alcohol/drugs, declared medical conditions (epilepsy, insulin-dependent diabetes) or for professional licenses (categories C, D). See the relevant Service Public fact sheet.
Does the B license allow driving in LEZ?
Yes, provided your vehicle complies with the Crit’Air classification authorised in the zone. Low Emission Zones in Paris, Lyon, Strasbourg, Grenoble ban Crit’Air 3, 4, 5 vehicles depending on the city. The license itself is not restrictive, the vehicle must comply. Check your Crit’Air sticker before driving.
What sanctions for serious infractions during the probationary period?
An infraction causing the loss of 3 or more points during the probationary period requires a points recovery course (at your expense, around €200) and a follow-up letter 48N from ANTAI. Losing all 6 points triggers license invalidation: you must retake code and driving after a minimum 6-month delay.
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