Burkina Faso Permis C (Poids Lourd) exam-day guide
Burkina Faso Permis C (Poids Lourd) · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Valid national ID (CNIB) or passport
Bring the original document, not a photocopy. Confirm with the provider that this specific ID is accepted for your test.
Existing driving licence (if held)
If you already hold a lower-category licence, bring the original. Confirm with the provider whether it must be presented on test day.
Learner's permit / proof of registration for the C category
Bring the document issued when you registered for the Poids Lourd category. Confirm with the provider which paper proves your eligibility to sit the practical test.
Medical certificate
A valid medical fitness certificate is typically required for heavy-vehicle categories. Confirm with the provider the required validity period and accepted format.
Proof of training completion
If you completed a driving school course, carry the attestation or certificate. Confirm with the provider whether it is checked at the test centre.
Appointment confirmation / convocation
Bring the printed or digital summons showing date, time and centre. Confirm with the provider how the convocation is delivered.
Payment receipts
Carry receipts for any exam or category fees already paid. Confirm with the provider which fees must be settled before the test and which on the day.
Glasses or hearing aid if worn
If your medical certificate notes a corrective device, bring it and wear it. Testing without a required correction can affect your result.
Closed shoes and practical clothing
Wear closed, flat shoes and clothing that lets you climb in and out of a truck cab safely. Avoid loose clothing that can catch on controls.
Arrive early and rested
Plan to reach the centre well before your slot so you can complete any check-in formalities. Confirm with the provider the recommended arrival time.
Review vehicle pre-departure checks
Practise mirror, seat and belt adjustment, and basic walk-around checks (tyres, lights, fluids) before the day. Confirm with the provider what pre-trip checks the examiner expects.
Know your test vehicle type
Find out in advance whether you drive a school vehicle or your own truck. Confirm with the provider the vehicle category, load condition and documentation the vehicle must carry.
Plan the day
Re-read the practical test requirements and confirm your appointment time, centre address and which documents are required. Confirm with the provider any point that is unclear.
Do at least one full practice drive in a vehicle of the same category, covering starting on a slope, reversing, turning in tight space and gear changes.
Practise the walk-around and cab drill out loud: adjust seat and mirrors, fasten belt, check gauges, test brakes and lights.
Assemble all documents in one folder and check names, dates and validity. Note anything missing and contact the provider immediately.
Confirm your transport to the centre and plan to arrive with a buffer. Avoid late-night study; sleep is more useful than last-minute cramming.
Do not drink alcohol. If you take medication that may cause drowsiness, check with a pharmacist or doctor before driving.
Eat a normal meal, dress in closed shoes and practical clothing, and take your document folder and any required corrective eyewear.
Arrive early, complete check-in, and ask staff where to wait and when your vehicle inspection will happen.
Listen to each instruction fully before acting. If you did not understand, ask the examiner to repeat it.
Before moving off, complete the cab drill deliberately and visibly: seat, mirrors, belt, gauges, then signal and check blind spots.
Drive smoothly and predictably, respect speed limits and safety distances, and narrate nothing unless asked. Stay calm if you make a mistake and continue safely.
Rules to check
Bring original identity documents; photocopies are generally not accepted. Confirm with the provider exactly which IDs are valid for the practical test.
Follow the examiner's instructions and do not argue during the test. If you believe an instruction was unclear, ask politely for it to be repeated.
Wear any corrective lenses or hearing aid noted on your medical certificate. Failing to use a required correction may count against you.
Do not use a phone or any electronic device during the test unless the examiner explicitly permits it.
The vehicle presented must be roadworthy, insured and of the correct category, with the required documents on board. Confirm with the provider the exact vehicle requirements.
Scoring and the number of permitted minor faults are set by the examining authority. Confirm with the provider how the practical test is scored and what constitutes an automatic failure.
Breaks and rest periods during the test are at the examiner's discretion. Ask at the start if you are unsure how the session will be structured.
If you feel unwell, tired or impaired on the day, tell the staff before the test begins. Driving while unfit is unsafe and may end your session.