CertiDocsThe practical guide
Exchange a foreign driving licence in Belgium
The municipality may request a sworn translation of a non-European licence. Confirm the language and records to translate before ordering.
Understand the processWho can exchange their licence?
Link to this sectionA valid EU/EEA licence generally allows driving without immediate exchange. For a non-European licence, ask the municipality to check the recognised model and exchange conditions. The country alone is not enough.
What documents to prepare?
Link to this sectionPrepare the valid original national licence and the records requested by the municipality. Confirm identity and residence evidence, photograph, any medical fitness requirements for the categories and translation if requested. An international permit does not replace the national licence for exchange.
Different nationality: residence in the issuing country
Link to this sectionDo not confuse registration in Belgium with evidence of residence when the licence was issued abroad. If your nationality differs from the issuing country, ask the municipality for the records covering that year. The dedicated guide also explains dual nationality and translation of certificates.
Recognised and exchangeable driving licences: what is the difference?
Link to this sectionFPS Mobility states that some licences recognised for driving cannot be exchanged, for example because Belgium has not received an official specimen. The country alone is therefore insufficient: the municipality checks the model, validity, original document and residence conditions. A translation does not replace those checks.
- For exchange of a non-European licence, only the original national licence qualifies: a provisional licence, international permit or replacement certificate is insufficient.
- The municipality may request a translation by a sworn translator in Belgium. Have exchange eligibility checked before ordering it.
Foreign licence: check the model before translation #
FPS Mobility distinguishes European and non-European licences. For a non-European licence, the recognised model and exchange conditions must be checked; the municipality may request a sworn translation. Translation alone does not make a licence exchangeable.
Preparation advice from CertiDocs #
Fictional example: two people hold licences from the same country but with different models. Do not infer exchange eligibility from the country name alone. Show both sides to your municipality and request a check of the exact model.
- Make categories, restrictions and dates legible. For a translation quote, specify the language confirmed by the municipality.
- Flag missing records or information before ordering. Ask the licensing department how to proceed if the model is absent from the official list.
Prepare the next step
Documents to prepare
- Original and valid foreign driving licence
- Sworn translation if requested by the municipality
- Recent passport photo
- Medical fitness evidence if required for the relevant categories
- Identity card or residence permit
- Proof of residence in Belgium
Steps to follow
Check eligibility
A valid EU/EEA licence generally allows driving without immediate exchange. For a non-European licence, ask the municipality to check the recognised model and exchange conditions. The country alone is not enough.
Translate if requested
The municipality may request a sworn translation of a non-European licence. Confirm the language and records to translate before ordering.
Submit the file at the municipality
Go to the population service of your municipality with all required documents. You will receive an acknowledgement of receipt.
Receive the Belgian licence
Authenticity checks on a non-European licence can take several weeks. Ask about your case; do not assume a fixed turnaround or the issue of a provisional licence.
Good to know
Guides
On the same topic
Other steps to prepare.
Non-European licence: prove residence in the issuing country
Check residence evidence from the country that issued the licence.
Foreign document: apostille or translation in Belgium
Distinguish formalities for a foreign document from those for its translation.
Original or certified copy for a translation in Belgium
Check which version of the document to provide for translation.
For your application
Related documents
Common translations
Budget
Prepare your translation request
Choose the document type in the form to see your fixed price.
One fixed price per complete document, regardless of page count. Confirm the price before submitting. See all prices
Frequently asked questions
+−How can I check whether my licence is exchangeable?
+−How much does a certified translation of a licence cost?
+−How long does the exchange take at the municipality?
+−Is an international driving permit sufficient?
+−Do I need to take an exam to exchange my licence?
+−What if my foreign licence has expired?
+−Recognised and exchangeable driving licences: what is the difference?
Official source
Official sources used
The references below are the public sources used to document this page. The competent authority always retains the final decision.
CertiDocs analysis: CertiDocs explains the process and helps connect users with a professional. CertiDocs is not a public service and is not affiliated with any authority.