Tue, 29 May 2012
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From getting a Belgian driver's license to road taxes, here is our updated guide to driving in Belgium.
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.
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.
Road tax
Your road tax is also based on the power of your engine and whether your car is used to transport passengers or merchandise. It is payable annually. The road tax becomes costlier on a second car.
Speed limits
Speed limits are 30/50kph in built-up areas, 70/90kph out of town and 120kph on motorways and four-lane roads. On entering any town or village, the speed limit comes into effect at the white background signboard bearing the community's name. Radar speed traps are common, particularly on the highway.
Traffic information
The telephone number for all of Belgium is 0900 10 280, seven days a week from 06.00 to 23.00. It carries information on traffic conditions anywhere in Belgium and also abroad.
Parking
Parking in town centres is controlled by parking meters or, in a so-called blue zone, by using a special disc (showing the time of arrival) which can be bought from garages or tobacconists. If using meters, a ticket must be bought from a machine and should be placed clearly on the dashboard, showing the hours of validity. Sometimes a system of alternate side of the road parking is used.
Also watch out for temporary signs left by the commune to indicate that the road needs to be kept clear for road works or the like. Ignore these at your peril as your car will be towed. Never park closer than 15m to a tram or bus stop.
Certain very busy streets are marked with a red triangle stating Axe Rouge/Ax Rode, meaning that no parking is permitted from 7am to 9.30am and 4pm to 6pm. A yellow line on the curb indicates no parking.
For a useful overview of driving in Belgium: click here.
Paul Morris / Expatica
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