HandbrakeWallonia
An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Wallonia. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.
For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.
183. Handbrake
A handbrake, commonly called the parking brake, is a braking system used to keep a stationary vehicle from moving after it has been parked. Traditional systems use a hand-operated lever, while modern vehicles may use a foot-operated or electronic parking brake.
The parking brake should be applied securely whenever the vehicle is parked, particularly on a slope. It operates separately from the normal service brake so that the vehicle can remain stationary even when the driver is absent.
Wikimedia.org • CC BY-SA
What is the purpose of the handbrake in Belgium?
The handbrake or parking brake is used to keep a parked vehicle securely stationary. It must be capable of holding the vehicle on both an uphill and downhill gradient, even when the driver is no longer in the vehicle.
Does a Belgian car need a traditional hand-operated handbrake?
No. The legal requirement concerns the parking-brake function rather than a traditional hand lever. A vehicle may therefore use another approved system, such as an electronic parking brake.
How strong must a parking brake be in Belgium?
For vehicles covered by the applicable technical requirements, the parking brake must be capable of holding the loaded vehicle stationary on an uphill or downhill gradient of 18%.

Traffic rules
Wallonia