What Budget is Required to Become a VTC Driver in France?

Becoming a VTC (Chauffeured Transport Vehicle) driver in France can be a promising career choice, offering flexibility and independence. However, starting a VTC business requires a certain financial commitment, as drivers must meet specific legal, administrative, and operational requirements. Here’s a detailed look at the costs involved, from the initial training and licensing to vehicle purchase and insurance, to help you plan your budget for launching a VTC business in France.

1. Training and Exam Costs

The first step to becoming a VTC driver is passing the official VTC exam, organized by the Chamber of Trades and Crafts (CMA). To prepare, it is highly recommended to enroll in a specialized VTC training program. Here are the primary expenses:

• Training Program: VTC training typically costs between €1,200 and €2,000. These courses cover essential areas, including driving safety, customer service, navigation, and business management. The training usually lasts around 140 hours.
• Exam Fees: The exam registration fee generally ranges from €200 to €300. This exam evaluates your knowledge of transportation regulations, road safety, and customer relations, and includes both theoretical and practical components.

Estimated Total for Training and Exam: €1,400 to €2,300

2. Administrative Costs

After passing the exam, you’ll need to obtain the VTC professional card and register with the VTC registry.

• Professional Card Application: This card is essential for legally working as a VTC driver. The application fee for the card is approximately €50 to €60, depending on the prefecture.
• Medical Certificate: A medical certificate is required to ensure that you meet the health standards necessary for a VTC driver. The cost of the examination by an authorized doctor is around €25 to €50.
• Criminal Record Extract: A clean criminal record (bulletin n°2) is required and is generally free for individuals requesting it for professional purposes.

Estimated Total for Administrative Costs: €75 to €110

3. Vehicle Purchase or Rental

A significant part of your budget will be dedicated to acquiring a VTC-compliant vehicle. The VTC regulations specify that the vehicle must meet specific standards in terms of size, comfort, and age. You have two main options: purchasing or renting a vehicle.

• Vehicle Purchase: The cost of purchasing a VTC-compliant vehicle depends on the model and age of the car. New vehicles that meet VTC standards, such as sedans or premium models, typically range from €25,000 to €45,000. A second-hand vehicle that meets the standards can cost between €15,000 and €30,000.
• Vehicle Rental: Renting a VTC-compliant vehicle can be an option for those who want to avoid the high upfront cost of purchasing. Monthly rental prices range from €500 to €1,500 depending on the model, insurance coverage, and rental company. Long-term leasing contracts may also include maintenance and insurance, which can help reduce some ongoing expenses.

Estimated Total for Vehicle:

• Purchase: €15,000 to €45,000
• Rental: €500 to €1,500 per month

4. Insurance and Licensing Fees

As a VTC driver, you are required to have specific insurance policies to protect both yourself and your passengers. These include liability insurance, vehicle insurance, and professional insurance.

• Professional Liability Insurance: This insurance covers any harm or injury caused to clients during service. It costs between €300 and €500 annually.
• Vehicle Insurance: Full coverage vehicle insurance is essential, as it covers accidents, theft, and other damages. The annual cost for a VTC vehicle insurance policy ranges from €1,500 to €3,000, depending on the driver’s experience and the type of vehicle.
• Additional Legal Fees: Registering with the VTC Registry is mandatory and costs around €170 for the initial registration and renewal every five years.

Estimated Total for Insurance and Licensing Fees: €1,970 to €3,670 annually

5. Additional Costs

• Fuel Costs: Fuel is an ongoing operational expense, and prices fluctuate depending on vehicle type, driving habits, and fuel costs in your region. Fuel expenses for VTC drivers in urban areas typically range between €200 and €400 per month.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure vehicle reliability and safety. Basic maintenance (oil changes, tire replacement, etc.) can cost approximately €1,000 to €2,000 annually. Unanticipated repairs may incur additional costs, so it’s wise to budget a contingency fund of around €500 to €1,000 per year.
• VTC Apps and Subscription Fees: Many VTC drivers use platforms like Uber, Bolt, or private apps to reach clients. These platforms charge a commission on each fare, typically between 20% and 30% of the trip revenue. Additionally, you may pay a monthly fee for premium service or additional tools.
• Continuing Education: Every five years, drivers must undergo a refresher course to update their knowledge on regulations and best practices. This training typically costs between €150 and €250.

Estimated Total for Additional Costs: €3,400 to €6,200 annually

6. Total Estimated Budget

To summarize, here’s an estimated breakdown of the costs required to become a VTC driver in France:

Expense Category	Estimated Cost
Training and Exam	€1,400 – €2,300
Administrative Costs	€75 – €110
Vehicle (Purchase or Rental)	€15,000 – €45,000
Insurance and Licensing Fees	€1,970 – €3,670
Additional Costs (Fuel, Maintenance)	€3,400 – €6,200
Total Initial Investment	€21,845 – €57,280

Monthly Budget for VTC Operations

For drivers opting to rent, here’s an estimate of monthly operational expenses:

• Vehicle Rental: €500 – €1,500
• Insurance: €130 – €300 (annual divided monthly)
• Fuel: €200 – €400
• Maintenance: €100 – €200 (annual divided monthly)
• Platform Fees: 20% – 30% of revenue

Estimated Monthly Total: €930 – €2,400 (plus commission fees)

Conclusion

Becoming a VTC driver in France requires careful financial planning and budgeting to cover training, licensing, and vehicle-related expenses. While the initial costs can be substantial, the earnings potential and flexibility of the VTC profession can make it a worthwhile investment. For those ready to commit, setting up a realistic budget and planning for ongoing costs will be key to building a successful VTC business.

Union VTV Lille is a large VTC chauffeur reservation center dedicated to your travel in Lille and France 24/7.