Driving License in 벨기μ for Expats
Complete guide for foreigners getting a driving license
Quick Answer: Can you drive in 벨기μ with a foreign license?
Yes, for 1 year from residency (if from recognized country). After that, you must convert to a 벨기μ license. The official test is only in French, but you can practice in English with AutoviaTest.
Key Facts: 벨기μ Driving License for Expats
| Test Authority | GOCA (Groepering van Ondernemingen voor Controle van Automobielvoertuigen) |
| Official Test Language | French, Dutch, German |
| Grace Period | 1 year from residency (if from recognized country) |
| Theory Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Practical Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Medical Exam | Not required |
| Total Cost | β¬25-60 (exchange) or β¬1,500-2,500 (full test) |
| Processing Time | 2-6 weeks |
Official test only in French?
Practice in English first with AutoviaTest. Learn all the rules and questions before taking the official test.
π§πͺ Practice 벨기μ Test in EnglishEligibility by Nationality
πͺπΊ EU/EEA Citizens
EU licenses valid indefinitely. No exchange required.
πΊπΈπ¬π§ US/UK Citizens
USA: No agreement, full test required. UK: Exchange possible.
π Other Non-EU Citizens
Must exchange within 1 year if from a recognized country. Full test if not.
π Students
Can use foreign license during studies with valid IDP.
License Exchange Agreements
β Direct Exchange (No Test Required)
EU/EEA countries, Switzerland, 17 other countries with bilateral agreements
β No Agreement (Full Test Required)
USA, Canada, Australia - must take full tests
Required Documents
- βBelgian residence card
- βOriginal foreign license
- βIdentity photos
- βMedical certificate (if over 50)
- βValid passport
Costs Breakdown
| Conversion/Exam Fee | β¬25-40 (municipal fee) |
| Medical Exam | Not required (unless over 50) |
| Translation | Not usually required for recognized licenses |
| Total Estimated | β¬25-60 (exchange) or β¬1,500-2,500 (full test) |
Tips for Expats in 벨기μ
- π‘THREE different regions with different licensing rules (Flanders, Wallonia, Brussels)
- π‘Belgium has NO penalty point system for traffic offenses
- π‘Test language depends on region: French, Dutch, or German
- π‘Different test requirements in Flanders vs Wallonia vs Brussels
- π‘License issued by municipality, not national authority
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Belgian driving test in English?
Why are there different rules in different regions?
Is it true Belgium has no point system?
Which region should I take the test in?
Ready to Practice?
Start practicing for your 벨기μ driving test in English.