Foreign driving licences in Belgium (2026)

Last reviewed: 30 October 2026

In short: A valid EU/EEA licence may be used in Belgium and usually need not be exchanged at once after moving. A recognised licence from outside the EU/EEA may be used during the first 185 days of registration, and a Belgian licence can be issued only after those 185 days.

RuleWhat applies
Licence from another EU/EEA state valid for a visitorUsing a foreign driving licenceYes [1]
EU/EEA licence after becoming a residentUsing a foreign driving licenceA holder moving to Belgium usually does not need to exchange the licence immediately and may keep driving with it as long as it is valid. Exchange is mandatory in case of loss, theft or damage, within two years after registration in Belgium if the licence has no administrative expiry date, and if a traffic offence leads to a temporary Belgian licence. Exchange can be applied for from three months before expiry. [1]
Licence from outside the EU/EEA for a visitorUsing a foreign driving licenceUntil the holder has been registered in Belgium for 185 days, a valid recognised international driving licence (Vienna or Geneva Convention) or a valid recognised non-European national licence may be used. Some recognised licences cannot be exchanged. [1]
Licence from outside the EU/EEA after becoming a residentUsing a foreign driving licenceThe recognised licence may be used during the first 185 days of registration in Belgium. A Belgian licence can be issued only after those 185 days, though the exchange procedure can be started earlier. The page does not say what applies if the licence is not exchanged after 185 days. [1]
International Driving Permit needed with an EU/EEA licenceUsing a foreign driving licence⚠ Not yet verified

Notes

  • European means issued by an EU member state or by Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein. The page also states that a person may hold only one European licence.
  • The FPS Mobility page does not address an international driving permit used together with an EU licence.

Sources

  1. Federal Public Service Mobility and Transport (FPS Mobility): Recognition of foreign driving licences | Mobility (consulted 30 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.