Driving in Belgium varies from the UK so in order for you to travel safely Sixt recommends that you look at guides for driving tips and advice before making your trip.
Click to jump to Speed Limits Rules & Regulations What to Bring Along
Speed Limits in Belgium
An important factor to consider are the different speed limits when driving in Belgium. Also bear in mind that the minimum speed limit on motorways is 70km/h.
| Built-up areas | 50 km/h |
|---|---|
| Outside built-up areas | 90 km/h |
| Motorways and dual-carriage ways | 120 km/h |
Belgian Driving Rules and Regulations
- In Belgium, they drive on the right-hand side of the road.
- Wearing of seat belts is compulsory for front and rear seat occupants.
- Children under 18 and less than 1.35m must use a suitable child-restraint system whether seated in the front or rear seat of a vehicle. Exception: When two child restraint systems are being used on the rear seats and there isn’t adequate room to place a third child restraint system, then the third child may travel on the back seat protected by the adult seat belt. A child under three can’t be transported in a vehicle without a child seat/restraint. It is prohibited to use a rear-facing child seat on a front seat with a frontal airbag unless it is deactivated.
- Maximum permitted level of alcohol in the bloodstream is 0.049 per cent. If the level of alcohol in the bloodstream is between 0.05 and 0.08 per cent you will be banned from driving for three hours and issued an on the spot fine of €150. If you refuse to pay the fine, the public prosecutor will prosecute and impose a fine up to €3,000. 0.08 per cent or more an on the spot fine of up to €550 and a ban from driving for at least six hours; if prosecution (more than 0.15 per cent) fine up to €12,000 and a licence suspension up to five years. However, if you have held your licence for less than two years, an on the spot fine will not be imposed, you will automatically be prosecuted.
- Dipped headlights should be used in poor daytime visibility.
- It is against the law to drive outside of marked roads and tracks.
- It is illegal to use a phone without a hands-free kit while driving in Belgium. A hand-held phone can be used in a stationary vehicle but not where the vehicle is stationary at traffic lights or in a traffic jam.
- Minimum age for driving is 18 years of age.
- Third-party motor insurance is compulsory. The police can impound an uninsured vehicle.
What to Bring Along
Here are the compulsory documents and equipment to carry:
- A valid driving licence. Your UK licence continues to be valid in Belgium after Brexit.
- Reflective jacket – Drivers stranded on a Belgian motorway or on a major road (usually four-lane roads, called ‘route pour automobiles’ – sign E17), stopping at places where parking is not allowed, must wear a reflective safety jacket as soon as they leave their vehicle. Fine for non-compliance €55, but the amount can be much higher (€60 – €1500) if the driver refuses to pay or in a circumstance where the driver has to go to court (for example in the event of an accident).
- Warning triangle – Compulsory for vehicles with more than two wheels.
- First-aid kit and fire extinguisher recommended as their carriage is compulsory for Belgian registered vehicles.
Rely on stress-free driving with SIXT in Belgium
A driving holiday in Belgium can be an excellent way to discover the country’s hidden gems and culture-filled cities. Sixt is present in many locations in Belgium with stations in Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, and more. Should you need further advice or driving equipment such as Sat Navs, child seats, or additional protection and insurance, our well trained and friendly staff will be there to help!
Browse all Sixt Stations in Belgium
