Buying a license-free car in 2026: the complete guide
Everything to know before buying a license-free car: who can drive, new or used, buying steps, financing and insurance. Looking to compare prices? See our page license-free car prices.
Who can buy and drive a license-free car?
AM licence
Mandatory for everyone, with no exemption by date of birth. Available from age 16 through theory and practical training at an approved driving school.
Theory and practical test
The AM licence is obtained by passing a theory test and a practical test at an approved driving school. There is no exam-free route.
Suspended or revoked licence
If your category B licence is suspended or revoked, a license-free car often remains usable. Check the court ruling: some bans cover every motor vehicle.
From age 16
With the AM licence, a 16-year-old can legally drive a license-free car. Ideal for getting around for school or work.
New or used?
| Criterion | New | Used |
|---|---|---|
| Price | 8,000 to 14,000 € | 2,500 to 9,000 € |
| Warranty | 2-year manufacturer | 0 to 12 months depending on seller |
| Risks | No hidden defects | Wear, unknown history |
| Availability | 2 to 8 week lead time | Immediate |
| Customisation | Options, colours of your choice | As is |
For detailed prices by model, see our page new license-free car prices and our guide used license-free cars.
The 5 steps of buying
- 1
Set your budget
Cash purchase or financing? Factor in insurance (600 to 1,200 €/year), yearly upkeep (~300 €) and charging or fuel. Realistic total budget: 10,000 to 15,000 € over 3 years for new, 6,000 to 10,000 € for used.
- 2
Choose the right model
Electric or petrol? 1 or 2 seats? Closed or open body? Compare on our page dedicated to license-free car prices and pinpoint the models that match your daily needs.
- 3
Find a dealer or a listing
Approved dealer for new cars and warranty, private seller or Auto Trader for cheaper used cars. Always check the vehicle's history with an HPI check or through the DVLA.
- 4
Choose your financing
Cash: negotiation possible. Standard loan: rates of 4 to 7 %. Lease-to-own: low monthly payment but you do not own the vehicle. Compare manufacturer offers (often good) and banks.
- 5
Take out insurance before delivery
Insurance must be active when you take the car. Get several quotes: the gap between insurers can reach 400 €/year. Mandatory wording on the insurance certificate: light motor quadricycle (L6e).
Electric or petrol?
| Criterion | Electric | Petrol |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase price | From 7,990 € (Ami) | From 8,500 € |
| Cost per km | ~0.03 €/km | ~0.08 to 0.12 €/km |
| Range | 60 to 120 km | 250 to 400 km |
| LEZ | Allowed everywhere | Possible restrictions |
| Upkeep | Very low | Oil change, belt, filter |
Full detail in our guide electric license-free car.
Where to buy a license-free car?
Approved license-free car dealer
+ Manufacturer warranty, after-sales, test drive possible
− List price, little negotiation
Used (private seller / Auto Trader)
+ Lowest prices, negotiation possible
− No warranty, inspection required
Leasing / lease-to-own
+ Low monthly payments, recent vehicle
− Not an owner, limited mileage
Importing (Belgium, Spain)
+ Savings of 10 to 20 % on some models
− UK type-approval to verify, distant after-sales
Your license-free car deserves a suitable GPS
TacTac works out filtered routes for license-free cars, with no motorway and a realistic ETA at 45 km/h.
Download on the App Store →Frequently asked questions
Can you buy a license-free car without holding a licence?
Yes, anyone can buy a license-free car. To drive it, though, you need the AM licence, available from age 16. The purchase itself needs no specific licence.
What is the average price of a new license-free car in 2026?
The price of a new license-free car ranges from 7,990 € (Citroën Ami) to 14,000 € for top-of-the-range models (Ligier JS60, Microcar Due). The average sits around 10,000 to 12,000 €. Used, reckon on 30 to 50 % less.
Is it better to buy an electric or petrol license-free car?
It depends on how you use it. Electric (Ami, Topolino) is ideal in town over short distances: cheaper to run, quiet, allowed in LEZ. Petrol (Aixam, Ligier diesel) suits longer trips and rural areas without a charging point better.
Is lease-to-own possible on a license-free car?
Yes, most major license-free car manufacturers (Aixam, Ligier, Microcar) offer lease-to-own plans. Reckon on a down payment of 10 to 20 % and monthly payments of 100 to 200 €/month depending on the model and term. Some independent lenders also cover used cars.
Is insurance mandatory for a license-free car?
Yes, insurance is mandatory, at minimum third-party liability. Reckon on 600 to 1,200 €/year depending on the profile and the cover. Young drivers (AM licence) often pay more. Compare several insurers that specialise in license-free cars.