The international driving permit in Belgium

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An international driving permit (IDP) is not a licence in its own right: it is an official translation of your Belgian licence, carried alongside it when you travel outside the European Union. Here is when you need one, how to get it from your municipality, and what to know the other way round, when you drive in Belgium on a foreign licence.

Key points

Not needed in the EU

The Belgian card-format licence is recognised in every EU and EEA country.

Always with your licence

An IDP is only valid when shown together with your national licence.

Issued by the municipality

You apply at your municipality's population office with a photo and your Belgian licence.

When do you need an international driving permit?

In the EU and EEA, your Belgian licence is enough. Outside the EU, many countries accept a foreign licence for a tourist stay, but some require an IDP, and car rental companies often ask for one even where local law does not.

The best habit: check the rules of your destination (embassy, official website) and of your rental company before you leave. If in doubt, an IDP is an inexpensive precaution.

How to apply

Go to the population office of the municipality where you live.
Bring your card-format Belgian licence, your ID card and a recent passport photo.
Pay the fee set by the municipality.
The permit is usually issued quickly; its validity is limited and never exceeds that of your Belgian licence.

An IDP never replaces your Belgian licence: if stopped abroad, always show both.

Driving in Belgium on a foreign licence

If you settle in Belgium with a non-EU licence, exchange depends on the issuing country: it may be direct, or you may have to retake the theory and practical tests. Ask your municipality early, as time limits apply.

Foreign licences in Belgium
Licence issued in	Visitor	Resident in Belgium
EU / EEA	Valid	Valid; can be exchanged at the municipality
Outside the EU	Valid for a temporary stay, sometimes with an IDP	Exchange depends on agreements with the country, otherwise retake the tests

Retaking the Belgian theory test

If your licence cannot be exchanged, you will need to pass the Belgian theory test: 50 questions, 41 points required, available in French, Dutch, German and, at some centres, English. Prepare with our free theory test and read about the theory test in English.

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Frequently asked questions

Where do I get an international driving permit in Belgium?

At the population office of your municipality, with your card-format Belgian licence, your ID card and a photo.

Do I need an IDP in Europe?

No. In the EU and EEA, your Belgian licence is enough.

How long is a Belgian international driving permit valid?

For a limited period shown on the document, and never beyond the validity of your Belgian licence.

Can I drive in Belgium with a foreign licence?

Yes as a visitor. If you settle in Belgium with a non-EU licence, exchange depends on the issuing country.

Do I have to retake my driving test in Belgium?

Only if your non-EU licence cannot be exchanged. You must then pass the Belgian theory and practical tests.