Belgium became independent from the Netherlands in 1830 and was occupied by Germany during World Wars I and II. It has prospered in the past half century as a modern, technologically advanced European state and member of NATO and the EU. Tensions between the Dutch-speaking Flemings of the north and the French-speaking Walloons of the south have led in recent years to constitutional amendments granting these regions formal recognition and autonomy.
| Antwerp | Bruges |
| Brussels | Ghent |
| Liege |
| Antwerp Airport | Brussels International Airport |
| Charleroi Airport | Liege Airport |
| Ostend Airport | Wevelgem Airport |
Driving in Belgium - some useful information: back to top
SPECIAL NOTES
Drive on the right, overtake on the left.
The flashing of headlights is used as a warning.
Dipped headlights must be on between dusk and dawn and during poor weather.
Driving on side lights only is illegal.
Be prepared to give way to vehicles joining from the right.
Trams (cable cars) have priority. In exception to the priority on your right rule, trams always have priority.
Always park with the traffic flow.
SIGN TRANSLATIONS
Allumez vos lanternes = Switch on your lights
Attention au feu = Fire Hazard
Attention Travaux = Roadwork's
Chaussee deformee = Uneven Surface
Fin d'interdiction de Stationner = End of No Parking
Gravillons = Loose Chipping's
Interdit aux Pietons = No Pedestrians
Rappel = Repeat of sign
Route Barree = Road Closed
VEHICLE REQUIREMENTS
A warning triangle and a fire extinguisher must be carried at all times. If there is the possibility of entering France then a first aid kit would also be needed. A spare bulb kit is recommended.
SPEED LIMITS
Cars only
Built-up areas = 50 kph
Major roads outside towns = 90 kph
Motorways = 120 kph
A rectangular blue sign with a white car signifies a minimum speed of 60 kph on motorways
MOTORWAYS
There is a good network of toll-free motorways (auto routes). Drive in the right-hand lane unless overtaking. A minimum speed of 70 kph applies unless otherwise stated.
SEAT BELTS
Front seats = Compulsory
Rear seats = Compulsory
Children under 12 years not allowed in front unless in an approved seat or harness.
DRIVING LICENCE
EC licence required.
Minimum driving age 18.
FINES
Motoring offences attract an on the spot fine. Police are empowered to impose and collect fines on the spot. An official receipt should be issued.
DRINKING and DRIVING
Blood / Alcohol limit is 0.05%.
EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS
Police
101
Fire Service
100
Ambulance
100
From a mobile phone dial 112 for all services
PARKING
A Blue Zone system operates in major towns, discs available from police, garages and tobacconists.
FUEL
Unleaded Regular 92 = Normale sans Plomb
Unleaded Super 95 = Super sans Plomb
Diesel is available
LPG is available
Most fuel stations are open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and all day Sunday. Stations along expressways are open 24 hours a day. Credit cards accepted for fuel payment on motorways and in large towns.
We offer car hire in the following locations in Belgium
Brussels Airport, Brussels, Brussels Eurostar, Brussels (Alsemberg - South), Brussels (Gare Du Midi), Brussels (Louise - Centre), Brussels (North), Gent, Antwerp and in other locations.