The road transport of dangerous goods is strictly regulated. In France, it is based on ADR, namely the Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road, as well as the TMD Order of 29 May 2009, which sets out how it applies within French territory. In 2026, the applicable reference framework is ADR 2025.
For the drivers concerned, the ADR driver training certificate is a regulatory requirement. It certifies that the driver has completed specific training and passed an examination covering safety rules, the risks associated with dangerous goods and the right actions to take in the event of an incident.
Would you like to understand what this certificate is for, who is concerned, which training courses must be taken and how to renew your qualification? Here is the key information to know in 2026.
The information presented in this article is provided for general information purposes only. It does not constitute comprehensive legal or regulatory advice and does not replace consultation of the applicable official texts or guidance from an approved training body or a qualified professional.
The ADR driver training certificate is an authorisation intended for drivers of vehicles carrying dangerous goods subject to ADR regulations. It is not a driving licence, but an additional certification required for certain road transport operations.
Its purpose is twofold:
The ADR certificate should not be confused with the driver qualification card (CQC). The CQC relates to the professional qualification of the road driver, whereas the ADR certificate specifically concerns the carriage of dangerous goods by road.
The ADR certificate is required for drivers transporting dangerous goods by road within the scope of ADR, subject to the exemptions provided for by the regulations. In practice, it particularly concerns professionals transporting chemicals, hazardous waste, flammable liquids, gases, corrosive substances or other classified substances.
Basic training covers a large proportion of dangerous goods transported in packages, in bulk or in certain authorised configurations. However, additional specialisations are required for certain operations or certain hazard classes.
ADR training enables the driver to acquire the knowledge required to carry out their activity in compliance with the regulations. It covers in particular:
This training must be taken with a training body approved by the competent authority.
ADR classifies dangerous goods into several classes. This classification is used to determine the rules applicable to transport, packaging, labelling, loading and signage.
The route depends on the nature of the goods transported and the type of operations carried out.
Basic ADR training is the mandatory foundation. It allows the driver to transport dangerous goods falling within the scope covered by this training, excluding cases requiring an additional specialisation.
The regulatory minimum is expressed in training sessions. For initial basic training, a minimum of 24 sessions is required, including theoretical instruction and practical exercises.
Depending on the activity carried out, the basic training may be supplemented by one or more of the following specialisations:
The regulations also provide for restricted tank specialisation courses, particularly for LPG and petroleum products.
The ADR certificate is valid for 5 years. To continue transporting dangerous goods beyond this period, the driver must complete a refresher training course before the certificate expires and then pass the corresponding examination.
For the basic refresher training course, the regulatory minimum is 16 sessions, including theoretical input and practical exercises. This refresher course updates the driver’s knowledge, particularly in line with regulatory, technical and operational developments.
In the transport, waste, construction or industrial sectors, ADR compliance is not limited to holding a certificate. It forms part of a broader risk-control approach: choosing the right packaging solution, ensuring packaging compliance, marking, signage, load securing and compliance with transport procedures.
Anticipating ADR training and certificate renewal helps secure operations, avoid disruptions and ensure transport complies with the regulatory requirements in force in France.
Complying with ADR regulations also means choosing suitable solutions for packaging, handling, storage and the transport of hazardous materials or waste.
To find out more, you can visit our page dedicated to ADR regulations or contact the Otexio team to discuss your needs.
Depending on the nature of the waste or materials handled, OTEXIO offers complementary solutions to protect the container, facilitate handling and secure transport operations.
The Container bag range notably includes solutions dedicated to the collection and transport of asbestos waste. Available in a standard version or a ZIP version, these container bags can include asbestos marking, a filling skirt and, for the ZIP version, a closure system designed to make the container bag leak-tight. A practical solution for professionals looking for a textile solution suited to the transport of hazardous waste.
With PROTECSKIP®, OTEXIO offers a Protective bag or liner made from plastic film and designed for containers and FMA. In addition to protecting the container, this solution makes it possible to make a container leak-tight, keep it clean and optimise turnaround cycles. It is particularly relevant for dirty, liquid or specifically treated waste.
Depending on your operating constraints, the nature of the waste to be transported and your packaging needs, the OTEXIO team will guide you towards the most suitable solution.