All about the BE license with printer: price, procedures, …

Last updated on January 20, 2025 by Maxime de Prinel

What are the different types of BE license categories?

The BE license is an extension of the B license, specially designed to allow you to drive vehicles with heavier trailers or specific combinations. There are no specific subcategories, but it can be combined with the B96 extension for heavier combinations.

Which vehicles can you drive with a BE license?

The BE license allows you to drive:

• A combination consisting of a category B vehicle (car or van) and a trailer or semi-trailer whose gross vehicle weight (GVW) is between 750 kg and 3,500 kg.
• Vehicles transporting people or goods with a GVW of 3.5 tons or less and up to 9 seats (driver included).
• Combinations of a towing vehicle and trailer whose total GVW (towing vehicle + trailer) is greater than 4,250 kg.
• Motorhomes with a trailer exceeding the standard B license limits.
• Some horse trailers, in particular the heaviest models, which exceed the limits of the B license or the B96 extension.

This license is particularly useful for activities that require transporting specific loads such as horses, boats or professional equipment.

Source: Service-Public.fr

Prerequisites for obtaining the BE license

To obtain the BE license, you must meet the following conditions:

1. Minimum age: 18 years old.
2. Hold a valid B license: this is essential to access the training.
3. Valid theory test: you must have passed the general theory test (ETG) less than 5 years ago.
4. Mandatory medical examination: carried out by an approved doctor, it certifies your physical and mental fitness to drive a towing combination.

What documents do you need to provide for the BE license?

When registering for the BE license, prepare the following documents:

• A valid ID document.
• Proof of address dated less than 6 months ago.
• A digital ID photo that meets ANTS standards.
• A copy of your B license.
• A medical certificate issued by an approved doctor.
• Cerfa form no. 14866*01, available on Service-Public.fr.

What are the steps to get the BE license?

The steps to get the BE license are as follows:

1. Administrative registration: on the ANTS website or through a specialized driving school.
2. Compulsory training: theory and practical lessons to master driving with a trailer.
3. Taking the exams: two tests, one off-road and one in traffic, allow your skills to be assessed.

What does BE license training involve?

BE license training is designed to make you capable of driving specific combinations. It includes:

1. Theory course:
   • Regulations on heavy trailers and their technical specifics.
   • Loading, equipment and road safety.
2. Practical lessons:
   • Maneuvers (hitching/unhitching, parking, reversing).
   • Driving on the road, in town and on the highway with a loaded trailer.

The average duration of the training is 7 hours, but it may vary according to individual needs.

What are the BE license tests?

The BE license has two distinct tests:

1. Off-road test (maneuvering area):
   • Technical checks of the vehicle and trailer.
   • Maneuvers with the trailer, such as hitching and unhitching.
   • Load safety.
2. Road test:
   • Driving on roads, with an assessment of your behavior in real conditions.
   • Handling the specific characteristics of the towing combination.

How much does the BE license cost?

The price of the BE license is generally between €600 and €1,200, depending on the region and the driving school. This cost includes:

• Registration and exam fees.
• Teaching materials for the theory training.
• Practical driving hours.

Financial aid such as the CPF (personal training account) or regional subsidies can be used to reduce costs.

How long is the BE license valid?

The BE license is valid for 15 years, like the B license. Its renewal is a simple administrative procedure, with no medical examination or driving tests.

Further information on other types of license: