The Personal Training Account (CPF) in France is undergoing changes that will require employees to pay a fee if they choose non-priority training. This cost could reach up to 350 euros, according to Jean-Pierre Farandou, a government official. The new rule applies when training does not align with a defined priority or benefit from co-financing—government or employer support to reduce the cost. The reform comes as the government seeks to manage public finances carefully, Farandou explained. Before accessing their CPF funds, users—whether employees or job seekers—will need to complete a questionnaire about their career goals and the training they are considering. Whether a training project is considered a priority will be determined based on a list of certifications set by decree, after discussions with employer groups and labor representatives. Those whose training receives at least 150 euros in co-financing, or job seekers whose training is linked to a priority certification, will not have to pay the additional fee. Employees who want to train in a priority certification will pay 150 euros, while job seekers without co-financing will pay the same amount if they choose non-priority training. Employees opting for non-priority training without co-financing will pay the highest fee of 350 euros. This amount will be officially set by decree, as confirmed by government officials. The CPF has already seen several changes in recent years. In the 2026 budget, the government limited how much users could withdraw for a single training and restricted funding for driver's licenses to only the unemployed. A small fee of 100 euros was introduced in 2024, later raised to 150 euros in 2026. During a recent event focused on artificial intelligence in the workforce, Farandou announced that AI-related training would be classified as a national priority. This classification will increase co-financing for AI-related training, helping to reduce the remaining cost for those wishing to participate in such programs. Critics argue that these reforms have limited individuals’ freedom to shape their professional futures. Arnaud Portanelli, co-founder of the language training platform Lingueo, said, "We see that the latest reforms have really constrained the freedom to choose one's professional future." He added, "We are free, but we are free to pay." He noted that most CPF users make their own decisions about training, but the new fees may influence their choices.