[REVISION HISTORY]

France licence delays and psychotechnical test mandate

Updated 2 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-07-31 05:36 UTC → 2026-08-01 08:47 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The French driver‑licence system continues to grapple with long waiting times and new procedural rules. Candidates whose licences have been cancelled, suspended or annulled must now pass a compulsory psychotechnical test administered by a psychologist in a prefecturally‑accredited centre; tests performed elsewhere are invalid. The computer‑based assessment evaluates reaction speed, visual‑motor coordination, short‑term memory, sustained attention and logical reasoning through timed exercises such as pattern recognition, trajectory tracing and response to visual‑auditory cues. Psychologists conducting the test must hold an ADELI registration issued by the regional health agency, confirming their qualification. The session begins with a brief interview, followed by the computer exercises, and lasts about an hour. Afterward the psychologist prepares a report that is sent directly to the relevant prefecture; only the prefecture’s decision on that report determines whether the licence can be restored. Processing the report typically takes ten to thirty days, but can exceed a month during busy periods. Results are submitted to the prefecture and a favourable opinion is required before licence restoration can proceed. ~~The list of approved centres, for example in Marseille, Grenoble~~ Candidates must bring a valid identity document, the licence (or withdrawal notice) and ~~other departments, is published by each prefecture~~ the test invitation; missing paperwork or attending an unapproved centre invalidates the test and ~~candidates are urged to verify accreditation beforehand.~~ requires repetition. Waiting times for the practical exam remain high, with some departments reporting delays of up to 172 days and a national median of 76 days. Unions have pressed for more examiners; the administration plans to add 47 contract examiners by 2027 and has created 83 000 extra exam places for 2025. From 20 February 2026 the CPF will finance only light‑vehicle licences for jobseekers registered with France Travail and employees contributing at least €100, capping support at €900 plus a €150 contribution per dossier. Candidates continue to use fast‑track courses, supervised driving periods and last‑minute cancellations to obtain earlier slots. ~~Gender‑bias training for inspectors is also planned.~~

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