Padel licence: what you need to know

Padel is a rapidly growing sport, and if you become passionate about it, you will get hooked and start competing officially; and competitions and tournaments mean a padel licence.

In this article, we will explore in detail what you need to know about it, from the application process to the benefits it brings, including the associated costs. Let's discover everything you need to know about the padel licence, in France and even if you want to play abroad.

What is a padel licence?

The padel licence is an official authorisation issued by the French Tennis Federation (FFT) in France. It is essential for fans of this sport and allows you to take part in competitions. 

Remember that for playing padel one-on-one, there are no official competitions. 

Licence Validity and Format

The FFT licence is valid for one school year from 1 September to 31 August. Therefore, the earlier you take it out in the season, the more you can benefit from it (it is generally available from June before its validity begins). It is now electronic, and you will receive an email from the FFT confirming its validity.

Types of Licences

Since September 2022, the FFT has distinguished the Padel licence from the Tennis licence. Affiliated clubs can issue a licence dedicated solely to playing Padel. It is also possible to obtain a multi-racket licence, covering Padel, Tennis and Beach Tennis in competition.

Benefits of the padel licence

The padel licence offers several benefits to players, starting with the opportunity to take part in competitions and appear in the official rankings, but that is not all.

Access official competitions

The padel licence plays an essential role as your gateway to official competitions in this discipline. It allows you to register for the hundreds of tournaments and championships offered throughout France. These competitions are an excellent way to test your skills, meet other padel enthusiasts, and enjoy unforgettable sporting experiences.

These competitions are organised at different skill levels, including P25, P100, P250, P500, and many others. This means that whether you are a beginner or experienced player, there will always be a competition suited to your level. 

Please note that for the highest levels, such as P500, the licence is not enough and tournament participation is often validated based on the team's ranking, depending on the number of teams entered.

Track your ranking 

No official padel ranking in France without an FFT padel licence! Naturally, if you start taking part in competitions, you will be ranked according to your results. To understand everything about how padel rankings work, read or reread our article on the subject. 

Your FFT padel licence will give you access to the Ten Up app, which allows all players to check their ranking and progress throughout the sporting year.

Discounts and Benefits

You may not necessarily think of it, but licence holders benefit from discounts with certain FFT partners. This includes discounts on L'Équipe's digital subscription, the Wilson e-shop, Hertz rentals, and much more. Exclusive benefits are regularly offered on Ten'Up.

Priority access to Roland Garros ticketing

Finally, FFT licence holders (multi-racket or padel-only) have priority access to Roland Garros ticketing for one week each February, as well as other events such as the Bercy tournament or the Greenweez Padel Open. 

How to obtain a padel licence

To obtain your FFT-affiliated padel licence, you will need to join a club that is affiliated with the federation. This ensures that you will be welcomed into a sports organisation that meets your needs and makes your playing experience easier.

Joining a club will also make it easier for you to find a padel court and improve, for example by learning how to serve well in padel.

Once you have chosen an affiliated club, the process of obtaining your licence is simple and convenient. Simply visit the Ten’Up app or the club's website, where you can upload the necessary documents and submit your application. By following these steps, you will quickly receive your licence certificate.

What about the medical certificate?

Minors can obtain their licence by completing a health questionnaire, unless at least one answer is positive, in which case they will need to provide a medical certificate less than 6 months old.

For adults, from the 2023-2024 season onwards, a medical certificate is no longer required to obtain a padel licence.

How long is a padel licence valid for and how do you renew it?

Your licence is valid for one year from 1 September to 31 August. If you are affiliated during the current year and wish to continue at the same club the following year, an application has already been created at your current club to renew your licence. If you change clubs, you will need to create a new application for a licence with the club in question.

The cost of a padel licence

Padel licence fees vary depending on age and the type of licence. Here are the details:

• Since September 2022, the standard price of a padel licence has been €20, regardless of age

• If you opt for a multi-racket licence, covering Padel, Tennis and Beach Tennis, the price depends on the player's age
• €32 for adults, 
• €22 for 7 to 18-year-olds,
• €12 for children aged 6 and under

The role of padel federations

Padel federations play an essential role in the development and promotion of this sport. They establish the rules, organise competitions, and ensure that players comply with fair-play standards. As a padel licence holder, you help support these efforts and strengthen the padel player community. In France, there is no padel federation as such; the French Tennis Federation fulfils this role, as the sport is not yet developed enough to have its own federation.

In conclusion, a padel licence is much more than just a pass to play. It opens the door to a world of benefits, access to exciting competitions, and an engaged community. Choose the licence that best suits your needs - padel or multi-racket - and make the most of your experience in the world of padel. 

If you are considering playing padel abroad, make sure you know all the licence rules and requirements in that country.