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World Driving Permit

🇧🇪 Do you need an IDP to drive in Belgium?

IDP recommended· the 1968 Vienna Convention· Last reviewed 13 Jun 2026

Key facts

IDP validity
Up to 3 years, or until your licence expires
Driving side
Right-hand
Minimum driving age
18+ years

Short answer

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Belgium, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Belgium follows the 1968 Vienna Convention. Carry it alongside your original national licence. A certified translation of your licence smooths rental-desk and police checks, but it does not replace the IDP where one is required.

Driving in Belgium: the rule explained

EU licences fully recognized in Belgium. Non-EU foreign licences valid for 1 year from registration. An IDP is recommended for non-EU visitors staying less than 1 year.

Exemption: EU/EEA licences are fully recognized.

Renting a car in Belgium

Brussels airport car rental desks accept EU licences. Non-EU licences with certified translation generally accepted.

What to carry when driving in Belgium

  • Original driving license (physical card)
  • Passport with valid visa/entry stamp
  • Translation companion or certified translation of your license
  • Proof of insurance covering the destination
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Translation companion

A certified, multi-language translation of your licence to carry alongside it. It is not an IDP and does not replace one.

Belgium: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Belgium?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Belgium, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Belgium follows the 1968 Vienna Convention. Carry it alongside your original national licence. A certified translation of your licence smooths rental-desk and police checks, but it does not replace the IDP where one is required. EU licences fully recognized in Belgium. Non-EU foreign licences valid for 1 year from registration. An IDP is recommended for non-EU visitors staying less than 1 year.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Belgium?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Belgium read your licence, but where Belgium requires an IDP it must be one issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Always carry your original national licence with it.
What do I need to rent a car in Belgium?
Brussels airport car rental desks accept EU licences. Non-EU licences with certified translation generally accepted.
Which IDP convention does Belgium use?
Belgium recognises IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Make sure your IDP is issued by your own country's authorised issuer under the matching convention.
How long is an International Driving Permit valid in Belgium?
Because Belgium follows the 1968 Vienna Convention, an IDP is valid for up to three years, or until your national licence expires — whichever comes first. The permit is only valid alongside your original national licence, and it cannot be renewed — you apply for a new one from your home country's authorised issuer when it lapses.
What is the minimum age to drive in Belgium?
Visitors generally need to be at least 18 to drive in Belgium; car-rental companies often set a higher minimum age and add a young-driver surcharge. Always confirm the age terms with your specific rental provider.

Official sources

Need a real, government-recognised IDP? How to get an IDP from an authorised issuer.

Driving to Belgium from your country

Requirements for other countries