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CertiDocsThe practical guide

Exchange a foreign driving licence in Belgium

Exchanging a foreign driving licence in Belgium depends on the country of origin. A certified translation of the licence is often required to complete the procedure at the municipality.

Understand the process
Last updated Editorial lead : Hiliyeh Bashir3 sources

Who can exchange their licence?

Holders of a driving licence issued by an EU or EEA member state can exchange their licence without examination. For licences issued by certain countries with a bilateral agreement with Belgium (Switzerland, Japan, South Korea, Quebec, etc.), a direct exchange is also possible. For other countries, a theoretical and/or practical examination may be required. You must be registered in the population or foreigners' register of a Belgian municipality.

Official sourceFPS Mobility - Foreign driving licences

What documents to prepare?

For the exchange of your licence, you must present: your original and valid foreign driving licence, a certified translation by a sworn translator if the licence is not in French, Dutch or German, a recent passport photo, a medical fitness certificate (group 2 if applicable), your identity card or residence permit, and proof of residence in Belgium.

Official sourceFPS Mobility - Foreign driving licencesFPS Justice - National register of sworn translators and interpretersFPS Justice - Legalisation of sworn translations

Documents to prepare

  • Original and valid foreign driving licence
  • Certified translation of the licence (if not in FR/NL/DE)
  • Recent passport photo
  • Medical fitness certificate
  • Identity card or residence permit
  • Proof of residence in Belgium

Steps to follow

  1. Check eligibility

    Check whether your country of origin is on the list of countries with a bilateral agreement. Conditions vary depending on the issuing country.

  2. Have the licence translated

    If your licence is not in French, Dutch or German, have it translated by a sworn translator registered with the Belgian FPS Justice.

  3. 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.

  4. Receive the Belgian licence

    Processing time is typically 3 to 4 weeks. Your foreign licence will be retained by the Belgian administration.

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Frequently asked questions

+Which countries have a bilateral agreement with Belgium?
EU/EEA countries benefit from automatic exchange. Other countries like Switzerland, Japan, South Korea, Quebec and certain African countries have bilateral agreements allowing simplified exchange.
+How much does a certified translation of a licence cost?
From €60 per standard document, both sides included excluding VAT; volume and any surcharges confirmed before payment.
+How long does the exchange take at the municipality?
Processing time is typically 3 to 4 weeks. A provisional licence may be issued during the waiting period in some municipalities.
+Is an international driving permit sufficient?
No, an international driving permit is only valid temporarily (1 year maximum). If you reside in Belgium, you must exchange your licence within 185 days of registering.
+Do I need to take an exam to exchange my licence?
For EU/EEA licences and countries with a bilateral agreement, no exam is required. For other countries, a theoretical and/or practical exam may be required by the municipality.
+What if my foreign licence has expired?
An expired licence generally cannot be exchanged. You will need to retake the theoretical and practical exams in Belgium to obtain a new Belgian licence.

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.

Official sourceFPS Mobility - Foreign driving licencesOfficial sourceFPS Justice - National register of sworn translators and interpretersOfficial sourceFPS Justice - Legalisation of sworn translations

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