10 Facts About Belgian Driving License For Non-Citizens That Will Instantly Put You In Good Mood

February 17, 2026

Belgian Driving License for Non-Citizens: A Comprehensive Guide

Belgium, renowned for its picturesque cities, rich history, and delectable food, is also a progressively popular location for expatriates. As diverse as its culture, the nation boasts a well-regulated driving system that may be a crucial element for non-citizens starting their Belgian journey. Legale Verkoper Van Belgische Rijbewijzen intends to provide a comprehensive overview of getting a Belgian driving license as a non-citizen, the necessary procedures, requirements, and considerations.

Why a Belgian Driving License?

Browsing through Belgium can be substantially more convenient with a driving license. Whether travelling to work, exploring website , or starting weekend vacations, understanding the requirements for obtaining a Belgian driving license is important for non-citizens.

Types of Driving Licenses in Belgium

Table 1 listed below provides a summary of the various kinds of driving licenses one can obtain in Belgium.

License Category

Description

Minimum Age

Credibility Period

Class A

Motorbikes

18 years

10 years

Class B

Cars and trucks

18 years

Ten years

Class C

Trucks

21 years

5 years

Class D

Buses

24 years

5 years

Class E

Trailers

18 years

5 years

Eligibility Criteria for Non-Citizens

Before delving into the specific steps to obtain a driving license, it's essential to understand the eligibility criteria for non-citizens wishing to drive in Belgium.

Residency: Applicants should be legal residents of Belgium. This might be through work, research study, or household reunification.
Age: As shown in Table 1, the minimum age varies depending on the license class one is making an application for.
Health Requirements: A medical evaluation might be required, depending upon the type of license being gotten.
Language Proficiency: While there is no official language test, awareness of the local languages (Dutch, French, or German) may be helpful during the practical driving test.
Previous License: If the candidate holds a legitimate driving license from their home country or another EU member state, they may be exempt from taking driving tests.

Steps to Obtain a Belgian Driving License

1. Registration

New residents must initially register in their regional commune (town workplace). This registration is vital as it issues a home permit, a vital file for getting a driving license.

2. Theory Test

For first-time drivers, the theory test is a requirement. The test consists of multiple-choice questions that evaluate road signs, traffic guidelines, and safe driving practices.

Research study Materials: Various resources are readily available, consisting of online platforms, mobile apps, and physical books tailored to the Belgian driving assessment.

3. Practical Driving Test

When the theory assessment is passed, candidates should undertake a driving test. This test examines practical driving abilities in real traffic situations.

Tips for Passing the Practical Driving Test:

Familiarize yourself with regional traffic rules and regulations.
Practice driving under different weather condition and traffic conditions.
Think about registering in driving schools that provide lessons particularly created for the Belgian roadway system.

4. Needed Documentation

When looking for a driving license, candidates must provide the following documents:

Document

Description

Valid recognition

Passport or residence permit

Certificate of residency

Proof of legal residency in Belgium

Medical certificate

Required for particular license classes

Proof of passing theory test

Certificate from the theory test

Evidence of passing dry run

Certificate from the driving test

Current passport-sized pictures

Usually a set of 2

5. Application Submission

When all tests are passed and documents gathered, candidates should send their driving license application to the local commune.

6. Payment of Fees

The last step involves paying the requisite fees, which can differ depending upon the commune and the license class obtained.

Often Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Yes, non-EU residents can utilize their foreign driving license for as much as 12 months after their arrival. After this period, they must request a Belgian driving license.

2. Are there any exemptions for EU people?

EU residents can normally transform their existing driving licenses to a Belgian one without taking a test, offered the license stands and issued in an EU country.

3. What occurs if I fail the driving test?

If a candidate stops working the practical driving test, they may retake it after a waiting duration, generally around a week.

4. The length of time does it take to get a driving license in Belgium?

The entire procedure can take anywhere from a couple of weeks to several months, depending upon the person's preparedness for tests and the processing speed of the local commune.

5. Are there any particular driving schools for non-citizens?

Numerous driving schools in Belgium provide courses particularly customized for non-citizens, integrating language assistance and adjusting to numerous cultural driving practices.

Getting a Belgian driving license as a non-citizen might appear daunting at initially, but with the right preparation and understanding of the procedure, it can be a smooth experience. Following the laid out steps, remaining informed about regional regulations, and seeking guidance when required will guarantee that you can delight in the flexibility of driving in Belgium. Whether you are a brand-new homeowner or a long-lasting migrant, navigating the Belgian roads is within reach!