Probationary licence: rules, duration and points

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The probationary licence governs new drivers during the first years after passing in France. Here's its duration, the points system and why passing the theory exam is the first step.

The probationary licence in brief

After the theory

The licence is obtained after the theory exam (ETG) and the practical test. The probationary period starts once you get the licence.

Progressive points

The probationary licence starts with 6 points, rising each year without offences to reach 12 points after 2 or 3 years.

Rules to follow

Lower speeds, reduced alcohol limit, 'A' disc: the probationary licence imposes specific rules set by French law.

What it is and when you start

Accompanied driving (conduite accompagnée) is the phase in which you drive on public roads with an experienced supervisor before sitting the practical test. You begin only after an initial training at a driving school and after passing the code - there is no way around that order.

It is a learning phase, not a licence. It carries obligations, it requires a supervisor beside you at all times, and it runs against the clock of your code pass, which is valid for five years from the day you obtain it.

Two formulas, and how to tell which is yours

France runs two main formulas. AAC (apprentissage anticipé de la conduite) starts from 15, includes a phase of at least one year and about 3000 km, and shortens the later probationary period from three years to two. Supervised driving (conduite supervisée) is aimed at adults or at candidates who have already failed the practical test, with more flexible duration conditions.

Unlike some neighbouring countries, these rules are national: they are the same everywhere in France. What varies in practice is only how long you wait for a practical-test slot, which depends on your department.

What it requires

Whichever formula you follow, several obligations apply, and breaching them is treated as a driving offence rather than an administrative slip.

The mistake that costs the most

The clock starts when you pass the code. People who wait several months before driving regularly find themselves short of time before the practical test, and if the five-year code validity lapses, the code has to be retaken from scratch.

Treat the code pass as the beginning of a countdown, not as a box ticked. If your circumstances change and you will not be ready in time, plan the practical test well before that five-year window closes.

Accompanied driving at a glance

Frequently asked questions

Must you pass the theory exam before driving?

Yes. Passing the category B theory exam is a prerequisite to take the practical test and obtain the licence, then enter the probationary period.

Do I need to pass the code before starting accompanied driving?

Yes, always. Accompanied driving begins after an initial driving-school training and after you have passed the code.

What is the difference between AAC and supervised driving?

AAC starts from 15, with a phase of at least one year and about 3000 km, and shortens the probationary period to two years. Supervised driving is for adults or candidates who have failed the practical, with more flexible duration conditions.

Can I drive alone during accompanied driving?

No. Your designated supervisor must be with you at all times, the "accompanied driving" disc is compulsory, and reduced learner speed limits apply.

What happens if my code pass expires before the practical test?

The code pass is valid for five years and up to five practical attempts. If it lapses, you must sit the code again, so plan the practical test well inside that window.

Are the rules the same everywhere in France?

Yes. Accompanied-driving rules are national and identical across the country. Only the waiting time for a practical-test slot varies by department.

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