Belgium Driving Licence : Obtaining a Belgian driving licence allows you to legally operate motor vehicles on public roads in Belgium. Here is an overview of driving licences in Belgium:
Types of Licences
There are different categories of driving licences issued in Belgium:
- Category A – Motorcycles
- Category B – Motor vehicles up to 3,500 kg
- Category C – Vehicles over 3,500 kg
- Category D – Passenger transportation vehicles
- Category BE, CE, DE – Combined vehicle licences
Eligibility and Minimum Age
To qualify for a Belgian driving licence you must:
- Be at least 16 years old (Category A)
- Be at least 18 years old (Category B)
- Be at least 21 years old (Category C, D)
- Pass required theory and practical driving exams
Licence Validity
Licence validity periods in Belgium:
- Category A – 20 years
- Category B – 10 years or until age 60
- Other categories – 5 years
Licences must be renewed before expiration.
New Residents and Tourists
New residents can drive using foreign licences for 6 months. Tourists can drive for up to 12 months with a valid licence from their home country.
Getting Your First Belgium Driving Licence
Here are the steps to obtaining your initial driving licence in Belgium:
1. Enroll in a Driving School
- Complete minimum 12 hours of theory lessons.
- Take minimum 20 hours of practical driving lessons.
- Obtain learner’s permit to start practicing.
2. Pass the Theory Test
- Take computer-based theory test on traffic rules, signs, laws.
- Answer 50 out of 60 questions correctly to pass.
3. Pass the Practical Driving Test
- Take practical test with examiner assessing your driving.
- Demonstrate competent control, road safety knowledge and skills.
- Minimum pass score is 34 out of 38 points.
4. Obtain Your Licence Card
- Visit Town Hall with passed test certificates.
- Provide ID, residence permit, passport photo.
- Pay issuance fee.
- Your plastic card licence will be issued.
Renewing a Belgian Driving Licence
To continue driving legally, you must renew your licence before expiration:
- Renewal can be done up to 8 months before expiry.
- Visit Town Hall with your current licence.
- Undergo vision screening and get new photo.
- Pay renewal fees.
- Updated licence will be issued.
Replacing a Lost or Stolen Licence
If your Belgian driving licence is lost or stolen:
- File a report with the police documenting loss/theft.
- Apply for replacement at Town Hall within 8 days.
- Provide police report and details of old licence.
- Pay replacement fee.
- You will be issued a duplicate licence.
Changing Your Address on Your Licence
When you change your official residence in Belgium:
- Notify Town Hall within 8 days of address change.
- Provide proof of your new address.
- Pay update fee.
- Your driving licence will be modified with new address.
Getting an International Driving Permit
To drive abroad, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP):
- Apply for IDP at Belgian Automobile Association.
- Bring current licence, passport photos and photocopies.
- Complete application and pay fee.
- Carry both licence and IDP when driving overseas.
Traffic Rules and Regulations in Belgium
When driving in Belgium, you must follow these main traffic laws:
General Driving
- Drive on the right side of the road
- Mandatory seat belt wearing
- Require proper use of child seats and restraints
- Yield right-of-way to pedestrians at crossings
Speed Limits
- 30-50 km/h in urban areas
- 70-90 km/h on rural roads
- 120 km/h on motorways
Fines
- Speeding fines from €53 to €2,750
- Driving unlicensed – fines up to €4,000
Documentation
- Have licence and insurance papers when driving
Alcohol Limit
- 0.5 g/l maximum allowable blood alcohol content
- Lower limits for novice and professional drivers
Resolving Traffic Violations and Fines in Belgium
If you commit a traffic offence in Belgium, here is how to deal with resulting fines:
Pay the Fine
- Fines can be paid online, at police stations, or by bank transfer.
- Pay promptly to avoid additional late penalties.
- Keep receipt as proof of payment.
Dispute the Fine
- To contest, send letter to police within 15 days.
- Submit evidence supporting your dispute.
- Fine may be waived if dispute upheld.
Licence Suspension
- Licence suspended if you exceed set penalty points.
- Attend driving courses to reduce points.
- Regain licence by obeying suspension terms.
Failure to Pay
- Unpaid fines referred for administrative enforcement.
- Additional fees and charges added.
- Can lead to driving licence being cancelled.
FAQ on Belgian Driving Licences
1. How much does it cost to get a Belgian driving licence?
Getting a new Belgian driving licence costs around €600-800. This covers mandatory lessons, theory/practical tests, documentation and issuance of the licence card. Renewal every 5-20 years is €20-30.
2. What is the minimum driving age in Belgium?
The minimum age is 16 years for a motorcycle licence, 18 years for a car licence, and 21 years for heavy vehicle and public transportation licences.
3. Can I exchange my US licence for a Belgian licence?
Belgium generally does not allow direct conversion of foreign licences for non-EU nationals. You have to take theory and practical exams to get a Belgian licence.
4. How do I replace my lost Belgian driving licence?
Report the loss immediately to police and apply for replacement at your Town Hall within 8 days. Provide the police report and details of your old licence. Pay the fee to obtain a duplicate licence.
5. Can I renew my Belgian licence from overseas?
Yes, you can renew a Belgian driving licence from overseas by authorizing someone to submit the renewal application on your behalf along with required documentation.