Is the CACES® compulsory? CACES® vs driving authorisation
4 min read · Updated October 2026
The CACES® is not a licence
No law requires the CACES® as such. What is required to drive a forklift in France is a driving authorisation issued by the employer (French Labour Code, article R4323-56).
In practice, the CACES® is the most common way to prove your knowledge and skills. Most employers and temp agencies require it before issuing the authorisation.
The 3 conditions for a driving authorisation
The employer issues it after checking three things:
- A medical fitness opinion from the occupational doctor.
- A check of the knowledge and skills needed to drive safely: that is what the CACES® does.
- Knowledge of the site and its safety instructions.
Why employers ask for the CACES®
After an accident, the employer must prove the driver was trained. The CACES®, issued by a certified testing centre, is the strongest and most recognised proof.
It also helps on a CV: many warehouse and order picker job ads list it as essential.
Which category to get
The category depends on the truck used in the job: rider pallet truck or stacker (1A, 1B), counterbalance forklift (3 up to 6 tonnes, 4 above), reach truck (5), high-level order picker (6) or moving trucks outside production, for maintenance or demonstrations (7). The categories guide covers each case.
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Start the free testFrequently asked questions
Do I need a CACES to drive a forklift in France?
The law does not require the CACES® itself. It requires the employer's driving authorisation, and most employers want a valid CACES® before issuing it.
Who issues the driving authorisation?
The employer, in writing, after a favourable medical opinion, a skills check and a site briefing.
Is my CACES valid with another employer?
Yes, the certificate stays yours until its end date. Each new employer issues its own driving authorisation.