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You are here: Home Housing Where to Live Driving in Belgium

22/04/2009Driving in Belgium

From getting a Belgian driver's licence to road taxes, here is our updated guide to driving in Belgium.

If you are a citizen of an EU member country you do not need to obtain a Belgian licence.


If you are a citizen of an EU member country you do not need to obtain a Belgian licence. Other foreigners permanently residing in Belgium and driving in the country may use an International Driving licence initially, but should apply for a valid Belgian driving licence on being issued an identity card.

An application must be made at the local town hall, usually at the same time as residence registration. It is required that you provide an existing driver's licence, two passport-type photographs and a residence permit. Expect several weeks' delay before receiving the Belgian licence.

A Belgian driving licence will be given automatically to some nationals including Switzerland and Norway.  Other nationals may need to take a Belgian driving test to qualify.  Non-EU nationals can check the government web site for licence validity: www.mobilit.fgov.be

It is important to note that the minimum driving age in Belgium is 18.  Even if you're 17 and have been issued a licence in your home country, you cannot drive here.


Registration tax
The registration tax is for your number plate which stays with you and not with the car. You will get the rear number plate in the post and have to go to a Mister Minute type shop to have the front one made up!


Circulation tax

Circulation tax (taxe de mise en circulation/belasting op inverkeerstelling) is a one-off payment made upon the purchase of a new or used car, based on the power of the engine. This is designed to curb the use of fuel-heavy cars, so make sure you check the tax bracket you fall into.

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