Belgium Driving License – Your Complete Guide to Driving in Belgium

The Belgian driving license is an official government-issued document that permits residents and citizens of Belgium to operate motor vehicles legally. Whether you’re a Belgian citizen, a new resident, or an expat, this guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining, exchanging, or renewing a driving license in Belgium.

What is the Belgian Driving License?

A Belgian driving license (Permis de Conduire / Rijbewijs / Führerschein) certifies that the holder is qualified to drive one or more categories of motor vehicles. It follows the EU standard format, is credit-card sized, and includes a photo, issue/expiry date, categories, and chip for security.

License Categories

Belgium issues driving licenses for several vehicle types:

Category AM – Mopeds (up to 45 km/h)
Category A1, A2, A – Motorcycles (various engine sizes)
Category B – Cars (up to 3.5 tons, max 8 passengers)
Category C, CE – Trucks and heavy goods vehicles
Category D, DE – Buses and coaches
Category G – Agricultural vehicles

Each category has its own training and examination requirements.

Who Can Apply?

To obtain a Belgian driving license, you must:

Be resident in Belgium
Meet the minimum age requirement (typically 18 for category B)
Pass a medical exam (for some categories or older drivers)
Pass theory and practical exams
Complete mandatory driving school or supervised practice (depending on path)

How to Get a Driving License in Belgium (Category B – Cars)

There are two main paths:

1. Driving School Route

Enroll in an authorized driving school
Complete 20 hours of practical training
Receive a certificate of competence
Apply for a learner’s permit or take the exam directly
Pass the theory and practical tests

2. Free Route (with Guide)

Pass the theory test first
Apply for a learner’s permit (permit with a guide)
Practice with a registered guide (must meet experience criteria)
Wait 3 months minimum before taking the practical exam

Theory Test

Taken at a recognized exam center (GOCA)
Consists of 50 multiple-choice questions
Topics: road signs, safety rules, penalties
Minimum score to pass: 41/50
Available in Dutch, French, or German (English with interpreter if needed)

Practical Test

Conducted on public roads by licensed examiners
Evaluates control, parking, traffic behavior, and hazard awareness
Some exam centers may include manoeuvre testing zones

Learner’s Permit

Valid for 18 to 36 months, depending on the type
Driving alone or with a guide, depending on permit type
Certain conditions (e.g., no driving at night or weekends) apply

Required Documents

Valid Belgian ID or residence card
Proof of residency (municipal registration)
Medical certificate (for certain categories)
Passport photos (may be taken digitally at the commune)
Theory and/or practical exam certificates

Cost (Estimates)

Theory test: ~€16
Practical test: ~€36–€40
Learner’s permit: ~€25–€35
Driving school: Varies (~€1,000–€1,500 for full course)
License card issuance: ~€25–€35

Validity and Renewal

Valid for 10 years
Renewal required at expiry or for category upgrades
Renewal includes updated photo and may require a medical check (for older drivers)

Exchanging a Foreign License

EU/EEA License Holders:

May drive in Belgium without exchange until their license expires
Can exchange for a Belgian license at any time (recommended if staying long-term)

Non-EU License Holders:

Must exchange their foreign license within 185 days of becoming a resident
Some countries have reciprocity agreements (e.g., Canada, Switzerland)
Others may require taking Belgian theory and practical tests

Documents required:

Original license + official translation
Proof of residence and ID
Medical certificate (if applicable)
Application through the commune or local town hall

Lost or Stolen License

Report immediately to the police
Apply for a replacement at your local commune
Provide police report and ID

Conclusion

The Belgian driving license offers access to safe and legal driving within Belgium and across the EU. With a structured system for new drivers, exchange options for foreigners, and modern digital features, it’s a valuable document for both locals and expats.

For more information, visit your regional licensing authority or the official site:
🔗 https://www.mobilit.belgium.be