Explained: what does an 'A' symbol on a car in France mean and rules for use
What does the A symbol mean, who has a probationary licence, and what are the rules?
The permis probatoire was introduced in a bid to reduce the number of accidents involving new and higher-risk drivers
HJBC / Shutterstock
You may have seen cars with an ‘A’ sticker on them in France, which shows that the driver is using a ‘probationary’ licence designed for young drivers (permis probatoire). Here is what it means.
What is a probationary licence?
The permis probatoire (probationary licence) came into law on March 1, 2004, and was introduced in a bid to reduce the number of accidents involving new drivers, or those considered to be higher-risk drivers.
Who must hold a probationary licence?
New drivers. Anyone obtaining their driving licence for the first time, whether through a traditional driving course or auto-conduite accompagnée (AAC). It applies to car drivers and motorbike riders.
Licence cancellations. Anyone who has lost their previous licence following a cancellation ordered by a judge, as a result of a serious offence (substantial speeding, drink-driving, etc.).
Invalidated licences. Anyone who lost their previous licence via invalidation (i.e. the loss of all 12 points).
All new drivers of cars in France (B licence), who have just passed their driving test, must hold a probationary driving licence. It only applies to the first driving licence you have received (so, for example, if a licence holder of a car B licence later gets their motorbike A licence, they will not be required to have a probationary licence again).
Read also: Can I hold both a French and a UK driving licence?
How many points does a probationary driving licence have?
A probationary licence only has six points on it, rather than the usual 12 on a full driving licence.
This means that probationary drivers must be more vigilant and comply with certain rules, or face harsher penalties than experienced drivers.
Read also: Can I check how many points are on my French driving licence?
How long does a probationary licence last?
The probationary period is three years for traditional driving lessons, and two years for drivers on accompanied driving courses (AAC).
Every year that a holder drives without losing any points, or any driving offence, they gain two additional points (or three points per year for accompanied driving, AAC).
This continues until the holder has amassed 12 points at the end of the probationary period.
To reach the maximum of 12 points over this time, drivers must comply with the rules for the duration of the licence’s validity period.
What are the rules for probationary licence-holders?
Holders of probationary licences are subjected to the following driving rules and penalties:
Lowered alcohol driving level. Just 0.2 grams per litre of blood (zero tolerance).
Reduced speed limits. 110 km/h instead of 130 km/h on motorways; 100km/h instead of 110 km/h on expressways (or roads with a central reservation); and 80 km/h instead of 90 km/h on roads away from built-up areas.
The ‘A’ sign on the vehicle. Young drivers must affix a disc with the ‘A’ sign to the rear of their vehicle. Failure to do so can result in a €35 fine.
‘106’ on the back of the licence. The number ‘106’ on the back of the licence indicates that the driver is on probation.
More severe penalties for offences. For example, if an offence results in the loss of three or more points, the driver is obliged to take a road safety awareness course at their own cost.
Can I drive at night with a probationary licence?
Yes, there are no time constraints with a probationary licence.
However, drivers must still comply with the extra rules of their licence, and be aware that driving at night can be more challenging for less experienced drivers.
When does the probationary licence expire?
If the driver does not commit any offence resulting in the loss of points during their period, their points increase every year until they reach a total of 12.
However, with optional extra training, young drivers can shorten the period of their probationary licence and obtain their 12 points more quickly. This one-day course can be taken between six and twelve months after obtaining your licence, and allows you to accumulate up to four points in one go.
What happens when you lose points on a probationary licence?
Any offence involving the loss of points interrupts the automatic accumulation of points to the 12-point maximum.
Loss of a single point: Automatic recovery. If drivers lose one point during the probationary period, they can recover them automatically after six months, if no other offences are committed.
Loss of two to five points: A compulsory course. The driver must take a road safety awareness course within four months of being notified of their loss of points, at the cost of €200-300. This enables the driver to recover up to four points. Failure to do so can result in a fine of €135 and licence suspension.
Loss of six points: Licence invalidated. The driver is banned from driving for six months, and must retake their driving test at the end of this ban period if they wish to re-obtain their licence.
How are young drivers insured during their probationary period?
Driving insurance for probationary licence drivers works similarly to normal insurance, but with a few extra conditions.
Higher insurance premiums. This is due to their lack of experience and the statistically higher risk of accidents. It is often up to 100% in the first year, 50% in the second year, and 25% in the third year.
Insurance duration. Probationary licence drivers are insured for three years if they are learning to drive in the normal way, and for two years if they are accompanied while driving (AAC).
If you are an accompanied driver (AAC), you can benefit from lower premiums when you get your probationary licence. This is because there is a statistically lower risk of accidents.
Can you drive abroad on a probationary licence?
Yes, but depending on the country, other rules may apply.
For example:
As the holder of a French probationary licence, you are entitled to drive in all member countries of the European Economic Area (EEA).
Outside of Europe, some countries require an international driving licence (IDP). This is an official translation of your national licence. For example, in the US, some states require an IDP. In the UK, you can drive using an IDP and a valid, non-UK licence for up to 12 months.
Can I hire a car on a probationary licence?
Not usually. Most hire companies require the driver to have at least one to two years' driving experience.
