Permis DE (Car avec Remorque) exam-day guide
Permis DE (Car avec Remorque) · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Identity document
Bring a valid photo ID (national ID card, passport, or residence permit). Confirm with the provider which documents are accepted and whether a photocopy is sufficient.
Driving licence
Bring your current driving licence (the category you are extending) and any provisional or learner documentation issued for the trailer category. Confirm with the provider if a digital licence is accepted.
Exam appointment confirmation
Have the appointment confirmation (printed or on your phone) showing date, time, and test centre address. Check the exact address the day before.
Proof of address
Some centres require a recent proof of address (utility bill, rental contract). Confirm with the provider whether this is needed for your case.
Vehicle documents
Ensure the towing vehicle and trailer are covered by valid insurance, registration, and (if applicable) a recent roadworthiness certificate. Bring the documents or confirm the examiner will check them on the vehicle.
Trailer equipment
Check that the trailer has working lights, indicators, brake lights, reflectors, a coupling lock, and a secondary coupling (breakaway cable). Confirm with the provider if a spare wheel or warning triangle is mandatory in your jurisdiction.
Glasses or contact lenses
If your licence requires corrective lenses, bring them. You will not be allowed to drive without them.
Comfortable clothing and footwear
Wear clothes that do not restrict movement and flat, closed shoes suitable for operating pedals. Avoid loose footwear or high heels.
Arrive early
Plan to arrive at least 15–30 minutes before the appointment to allow for check-in and vehicle inspection. Confirm the required arrival time with the provider.
Review manoeuvres mentally
Go over the key manoeuvres: reversing in a straight line, reversing into a bay, coupling/uncoupling, and safe lane changes with a trailer. No need to practise on the day; just visualise.
Emergency contact and provider phone number
Save the test centre and your driving school's phone number in case of delay or vehicle problem.
Water and snack
Bring water and a light snack in case of waiting time. Avoid heavy meals before the test.
Plan the day
Confirm the appointment time, location, and what to bring by contacting the provider or checking the official notice. Re-read the exam guide and the vehicle/trailer requirements. Check that the trailer lights and brakes work and that the coupling is secure. Make sure the vehicle is clean and fuelled. Practise the reversing manoeuvres once more if possible, but avoid overdoing it.
Prepare your documents in one folder: ID, licence, appointment confirmation, insurance and registration. Check the weather forecast and plan your route to the test centre, including traffic. Set out comfortable clothes and shoes. Get a good night's sleep; avoid alcohol. Confirm the exact meeting point (e.g., which gate or parking area).
Eat a light breakfast and stay hydrated. Arrive at the test centre at least 15–30 minutes early (confirm exact time with provider). Present your documents at check-in. Perform a final walk-around of the vehicle and trailer: check lights, tyres, coupling, breakaway cable, and load security. Adjust mirrors and seat before starting. Listen carefully to the examiner's instructions and ask for clarification if needed.
Follow the examiner's directions calmly. Use the mirrors frequently and signal clearly. When reversing, use all available aids (mirrors, rear-view camera if fitted, and a banksman if allowed-confirm with the provider). Perform the coupling/uncoupling procedure step by step as taught. Keep to speed limits and adapt to traffic. If you make a mistake, stay focused and continue; do not panic. At the end, park safely and wait for the examiner's debrief.
Rules to check
You must present valid photo ID and your driving licence. If you do not have the required documents, you may be refused the test and lose your fee. Confirm the exact document list with the provider.
Arrive on time. Late arrival may result in cancellation of the test; confirm the provider's grace period policy.
The examiner may check that the vehicle and trailer are roadworthy and correctly coupled before the test. If the vehicle is unsafe or documents are missing, the test may not proceed.
Mobile phones must be switched off or in flight mode during the test. Using a phone while driving is prohibited.
The use of dash cams or recording devices during the test may be restricted; ask the provider beforehand.
Breaks during the test are generally not permitted, but if you feel unwell, inform the examiner immediately. Confirm the provider's policy on medical interruptions.
Scoring is based on driving faults, serious faults, and dangerous faults. A single dangerous fault or a accumulation of serious faults will result in a fail. The examiner will explain the result at the end.
Smoking, eating, or drinking (except water) is not allowed while driving. Keep the vehicle clean and free of distractions.