Resources for learner drivers
This page gathers the practical tools you actually need while working towards your French driving licence — from the moment you start theory revision through to the day of your practical test. Use the checklists below to organise your study, prepare for lessons and avoid the small oversights that delay so many candidates. Everything here is designed to be used immediately, whether you are learning for the first time, returning after a break, or simply weighing up how to fit lessons around a busy schedule.
Theory Test (Code de la route) Study Checklist
- Register for your NEPH number through your driving school or the ANTS website before booking the code exam — you cannot sit the test without it.
- Set a daily revision target of 20–40 practice questions and track your average score across sessions.
- Focus early on the highest-weighted themes: priority rules, road signs, speed limits and safety distances.
- Learn the four fixed speed limits by heart: 130 km/h on motorways, 110 on dual carriageways, 80 on most rural roads, 50 in built-up areas.
- Practise questions on stopping distances and the two-second gap rule until you answer them without hesitation.
- Take at least three full mock exams of 40 questions under timed conditions before booking the real thing.
- Aim to consistently score 37 out of 40 or better in mocks, since the pass mark is 35 correct answers.
- Book your code exam only once your mock average has been stable for a week — resitting costs time and money.
Practical Lesson Preparation Checklist
- Bring your NEPH number, a valid ID and your logbook (livret d'apprentissage) to every session.
- Wear flat, closed shoes that let you feel the pedals — avoid boots, heels or loose sandals.
- Before each lesson, note two or three specific skills you want to work on, such as reversing or roundabouts.
- Complete the mandatory minimum of 20 hours of instruction, but plan for the national average of closer to 30–35 hours.
- Ask your instructor for honest feedback after each session and write it in your logbook straight away.
- Practise mirror-signal-manoeuvre as a fixed routine so it becomes automatic before your test.
- Book lessons close enough together — ideally one or two per week — so skills do not fade between sessions.
- Arrange a mock driving test with your instructor at least two weeks before your official examination date.
Quick Reference: Key Facts
- The code exam has 40 questions and you must answer at least 35 correctly to pass.
- Your code result (ETG) stays valid for 5 years and covers up to 5 practical test attempts.
- The minimum age is 17 to take the practical test under traditional learning, or 15 to start supervised driving (conduite accompagnée).
- The practical test lasts about 32 minutes, including roughly 25 minutes of continuous driving.
- You need a minimum of 20 supervised hours of practical instruction, though most learners need more.
- The pass mark for the practical test is 20 points out of 31, with automatic failure for any dangerous action.
Do I need to pass the theory test before starting practical lessons?
You can begin some practical instruction alongside theory study, but you must hold a valid code result before you can sit your practical driving test. Most learners pass the code first so they can concentrate fully on driving skills afterwards.
How many driving lessons will I actually need?
The legal minimum is 20 hours, but the majority of candidates take between 30 and 35 hours before they are test-ready. The exact number depends on how often you practise, whether you drive between lessons, and how quickly you build confidence in traffic.
How long is my code (theory) result valid?
Your code result remains valid for five years, during which you can attempt the practical test up to five times. If you have not passed the practical within that window, you would need to retake the theory exam.
What causes most people to fail the practical test?
Common reasons include poor observation at junctions and roundabouts, incorrect use of mirrors, hesitation that disrupts traffic, and errors on speed or priority rules. A single dangerous action results in an automatic fail, so consistent safe habits matter more than perfect manoeuvres.
Can I fit lessons around work or study?
Yes. Many driving schools offer early morning, evening and weekend slots, and intensive courses that condense practice into a short period. Booking one or two lessons a week at regular times usually gives the best balance between progress and cost.
How do I choose a good driving instructor?
Look for a properly registered school, a clear pricing structure with no hidden charges, and an instructor whose teaching style suits you. Ask about their pass rates, how they track your progress in your logbook, and whether they include a mock test before your exam.
Guides
Understanding the driving theory test
How the driving theory test works in France, what topics it covers and how to study effectively for a first-time pass.
What to expect from practical driving lessons
How practical driving lessons are structured, the skills you build in each stage and how to make steady progress toward your test.
Preparing for your driving test
A practical checklist for driving test preparation in France, from mock tests to managing nerves and knowing what examiners look for.
Choosing the right driving instructor
What to look for in a driving instructor, questions to ask and how a good teaching style can speed up your learning.
How to book your driving lessons
A step-by-step overview of booking driving lessons in France, from first enquiry to arranging your first session.
Fitting driving lessons around your life
How flexible scheduling helps you fit driving lessons around work and study, and how to plan a consistent learning routine.