Belgian Driving License For Foreigners: It's Not As Difficult As You Think

February 9, 2026

A Comprehensive Guide to Obtaining a Belgian Driving License for Foreigners

Navigating the roads in Belgium can be a daunting experience, particularly for foreigners. Whether Echt Belgisch Rijbewijs Verkrijgen are preparing to remain in Belgium for a prolonged period or simply going to, understanding the procedure of acquiring a Belgian driving license is important. This guide aims to supply comprehensive details for foreigners about obtaining a Belgian driving license, including eligibility requirements, needed documentation, processes, and some often asked questions.

Comprehending the Belgian Driving License

Belgium acknowledges both regional and international driving licenses. However, foreigners will ultimately need a regional license if they end up being citizens. Here is an overview of the kinds of driving licenses in Belgium:

Driving License Type

Description

Requirement License

Allows holders to drive a basic car.

Provisionary License

Provided before the basic license, subject to conditions.

International License

Short-lived driving license legitimate for a restricted duration in Belgium.

Eligibility Criteria

Who Can Apply?

To get a Belgian driving license, the applicant must meet the following criteria:

Be at least 17 years old for a provisionary license or 18 for a standard license.
Have residency status in Belgium.
Hold a legitimate identity file (passport, ID card, etc).
Fulfill the medical requirements (if appropriate).

Exemptions

Specific classifications of people may not require to go through the full process:

Holders of a valid EU driving license can often exchange it without extra testing.
Holders of a driving license from a country with a bilateral treaty with Belgium.

Paperwork Required

To obtain a Belgian driving license, the following documents are normally required:

Document

Description

Legitimate Identity Document

Passport, ID card, and so on.

Evidence of Residency

Utility bill, rental agreement, etc.

Medical Certificate (if required)

To ensure you meet health requirements

Completed Application Form

Readily available from local workplaces

Existing Foreign License

If appropriate, to exchange

The Application Process

Step-by-Step Guide

Obtain Residency: Ensure you have legitimate residency status in Belgium.
Collect Required Documents: Collect the essential documents noted above.
Complete Medical Examination: If required, go to an authorized physician for a medical certificate.
See Your Local Commune: Go to your regional commune (municipality) to submit your application.
Pass the Theoretical Exam: If you do not hold a legitimate foreign license, you need to pass a theoretical test on traffic laws.
Complete Practical Training: Take lessons from an authorized driving school to prepare for the practical test.
Pass the Practical Exam: Successfully complete the useful driving test.
Get Your License: After passing all examinations, you will be released your Belgian driving license.

Timeline and Fees

The duration of the whole process may vary:

Step

Approximated Time

Charges

Medical exam

1 Day

EUR50 – EUR100

Theoretical Exam

1 Day

EUR15 – EUR30

Practical Training

20 – 30 Hours

EUR800 – EUR1200

Practical Exam

1 Day

EUR30 – EUR50

License Issuance

1 Week

EUR25 – EUR40

FAQs

1. Can I drive in Belgium with my foreign license?

Yes, if you are a tourist or on a brief check out, you can utilize your foreign driving license. Nevertheless, if you become a local, you will require to get a Belgian license.

2. The length of time can I utilize my foreign driving license in Belgium?

EU residents can drive for as much as 5 years with their foreign license, while non-EU residents might have different policies depending on their native land.

3. What if I stop working the driving tests?

If you fail the theoretical or useful test, you can retake it. There may be a waiting duration of 7 to 1 month before you can attempt the test again.

4. Are there any age constraints for the driving license?

To get a provisional license, you must be at least 17 years old. You should be 18 to hold a full driving license.

5. What medical conditions could affect my capability to drive?

Specific conditions, such as epilepsy, vision disability, or serious psychological health issues, may require evaluation before you can obtain a driving license.

Acquiring a Belgian driving license as a foreigner can seem overwhelming, but with the right guidance and preparation, the procedure can be straightforward. It's necessary to familiarize oneself with local driving laws, required documents, and the testing process. By following the steps outlined in this guide, foreigners can confidently navigate the roadways in Belgium and enjoy their driving experience.

For any further questions or particular situations, it might be handy to speak with regional driving schools or legal advisors to ensure compliance with Belgian regulations. Safe travels on the roadway!