Agricultural and Forestry Equipment Repair Professional

To start an agricultural and forestry equipment repair business in France, you must hold a professional qualification. You need either a relevant diploma (CAP, baccalauréat professionnel or BTS in equipment maintenance) or three years of effective professional experience. If you qualify through experience, you must obtain a qualification certificate from the CMA (Chambre des Métiers et de l'Artisanat) in your area.

This regulated craft activity covers the repair, maintenance and servicing of machinery used for soil cultivation, planting, livestock farming, brush clearing and mowing. You must submit the JQPA form with your business registration and meet honorability conditions. Registration with the CMA is required as it is classified as an artisanal activity.

Qualification Requirements

  • Required diplomas: CAP "Tractor and Agricultural Equipment Mechanic", BTS "Techniques and Services in Agricultural Equipment" or "Agricultural Equipment", Professional Baccalaureate "Agricultural Equipment" or "Equipment Maintenance, Agricultural Option"
  • Alternative experience: Three years of effective professional experience in the EU/EEA as a business manager, self-employed worker or employee
  • Effective control: Possibility to practice under the effective and permanent supervision of a qualified person
  • Certificate: The CMA can issue a professional qualification certificate upon request

Registration Procedure

  • Competent authority: Chamber of Trades and Crafts (CMA) of the place of establishment
  • EU/EEA nationals (LPS): Prior declaration of activity for temporary and occasional practice, one-month processing time
  • EU/EEA nationals (LE): Application for professional qualification recognition certificate for permanent practice, four-month deadline
  • Compensation measures: In case of substantial differences, adaptation period (max 3 years) or aptitude test
  • Insurance: Professional liability insurance mandatory for self-employed practitioners

Honorability Conditions and Restrictions

  • Prohibitions: Cannot practice if subject to a prohibition from directing, managing, administering or controlling a commercial or craft business
  • Incompatible penalties: Prohibition from practicing if subject to a ban on professional or social activity under Article 131-6 of the Criminal Code
  • Free of charge: The application for professional qualification certificate is free, but case processing fees may be charged for compensation measures