Motorcycle helmets and licences in Belgium (2026)

Last reviewed: 30 October 2026

In short: Riders and passengers must wear a helmet, and a motorcycle must always use its dipped beam and rear light. The minimum ages for the practical exam are 18 (A1), 20 (A2) and 24 for category A, or 22 after two years on A2.

RuleWhat applies
Helmet required for the riderRiding a motorcycle; MotorcycleYes [1]
Helmet required for a passengerRiding a motorcycle; MotorcycleYes [1]
Minimum age, category A1 (light motorcycle)Riding a motorcycle; Category A1 (light motorcycle)18 years [2]
Minimum age, category A2Riding a motorcycle; Category A2 (medium motorcycle)20 years [2]
Minimum age, category A (direct access)Riding a motorcycle; Category A (unrestricted motorcycle)24 years [2]
Minimum age, category A (after two years on A2)Riding a motorcycle; Category A (unrestricted motorcycle)22 years [2]
Dipped beam or daytime running light required by dayRiding a motorcycle; MotorcycleYes [1]

Notes

  • Article 36 of the Royal Decree of 1 December 1975 as quoted in a 2017 Federal Police leaflet (read through the Internet Archive). The Code of the public road replaces this decree on 1 June 2027, so check the new code then. Exceptions exist for vehicles with a passenger compartment where seat belts are worn.
  • Minimum age to take the practical exam; the theory exam can be taken three months before turning 18. Licence training and exams are regional matters, the age limits come from the federal licence rules (Royal Decree of 23 March 1998).
  • After holding A2 for at least two years and four hours of lessons with a driving school, the practical exam for category A can be taken from age 22 (A2 obtained at 20).
  • Article 36 of the Royal Decree of 1 December 1975 as quoted in a 2017 Federal Police leaflet (read through the Internet Archive). The Code of the public road replaces this decree on 1 June 2027, so check the new code then. Exceptions exist for vehicles with a passenger compartment where seat belts are worn.

Sources

  1. Federale politie: Wegcode voor de motorrijder: rechten en plichten van de motorrijder (Internet Archive snapshot of 10 July 2026) (consulted 30 October 2026) · all sources
  2. FOD Mobiliteit en Vervoer: Motorfietsen (categorie A, A1, A2) (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.