Règles de circulationBelgique

A motorway begins at traffic sign F5 and ends at traffic sign F7. From sign F5, the special rules for motorway traffic apply until sign F7 is reached.

Belgium’s new Code of the Public Road takes effect on 1 June 2027. The motorway signs are renumbered: the current traffic sign F5 for the beginning of a motorway becomes traffic sign R29, while traffic sign F7 for the end of a motorway becomes traffic sign R31. The main motorway rules remain largely familiar, including the general maximum speed of 120 km/h and the special access and driving rules that apply on motorways. During the transition period, drivers may encounter both the current and new motorway signs.

The general maximum speed is 120 km/h unless traffic signs impose a lower limit. Vehicles and combinations with a maximum authorised mass exceeding 3.5 tonnes and buses are generally limited to 90 km/h. Coaches that meet the applicable seat-belt and speed-limiter requirements may travel at up to 100 km/h.

Drivers must normally travel at no less than 70 km/h unless a lower speed is imposed or traffic, weather, visibility, road conditions or another safety reason requires them to slow down. Vehicles and combinations that cannot reach 70 km/h on a level road are not permitted on the motorway.

Belgian motorways may not be used by pedestrians, cyclists, moped riders, riders or drivers of animals, agricultural vehicles, motorised quadricycles without a passenger compartment and certain other slow or restricted vehicles. Vehicles and combinations unable to reach 70 km/h on a level road are also prohibited.

Drivers must normally remain as close as possible to the right-hand side of the carriageway and return to the right when conditions allow. Other lanes may be used for overtaking or when required by traffic signs, congestion or the intended destination.

On a motorway with three or more lanes in the same direction, buses, coaches and vehicles or combinations exceeding 3.5 tonnes may normally use only the two rightmost lanes, unless lane-direction signs indicate otherwise.

Drivers must form an emergency corridor as soon as congestion develops. Vehicles in the leftmost lane move as far left as possible. Vehicles in every other lane move as far right as possible. The corridor is formed between the leftmost lane and the lane immediately beside it.

No. Ordinary drivers may not use the emergency lane to overtake congestion, reach an exit or continue their journey. Its use is reserved for authorised emergency vehicles, recovery vehicles and certain authorised services in the circumstances provided by law.

Move the vehicle away from the traffic lanes when this can be done safely and take the necessary measures to protect other road users. If the vehicle cannot be moved and is stopped where stopping or parking is prohibited, place the warning triangle at least 100 metres behind the vehicle. The driver must wear a retro-reflective safety vest when leaving a broken-down vehicle stopped at such a location.

Stopping and parking are prohibited except in designated parking areas or when stopping is required by traffic, an emergency or another unavoidable circumstance. The emergency lane is not an ordinary parking or waiting area.

No. Reversing, making a U-turn, driving against the direction of traffic and using connections through the central reservation are prohibited. If you miss an exit, continue to the next suitable exit.

A Belgian expressway, legally called an autoweg, begins at traffic sign F9. The special autoweg rules continue until traffic sign F11 indicates its end.

Belgium’s new Code of the Public Road takes effect on 1 June 2027. The expressway signs are renumbered: the current traffic sign F9 for the beginning of an expressway becomes traffic sign R33, while traffic sign F11 for the end of an expressway becomes traffic sign R35. The special rules for expressways continue to apply between the beginning and end signs. During the transition period, drivers may encounter both the current and new expressway signs.

A Belgian motorway is indicated by signs F5 and F7 and is subject to the full motorway rules. An autoweg is indicated by signs F9 and F11 and may have ordinary intersections, traffic lights or direct entrances. Its road design does not have to meet motorway standards.

Only motor vehicles and their trailers may use a Belgian autoweg. Mopeds, agricultural vehicles, fairground vehicle combinations and motorised quadricycles without a passenger compartment are prohibited. Pedestrians, cyclists and animals may not use the autoweg itself.

The F9 autoweg sign does not impose one fixed speed limit. Inside a built-up area, the general limit is normally 30 km/h in Brussels and 50 km/h in Flanders and Wallonia unless signs indicate otherwise. Outside built-up areas, a physically divided road with at least two lanes in each direction may allow up to 120 km/h. On other roads, the general limit is normally 70 km/h in Brussels and Flanders and 90 km/h in Wallonia, although traffic signs and vehicle-specific limits may impose another speed.

There is no expressway-specific minimum speed of 70 km/h. That rule applies to motorways, not autowegen. Drivers may nevertheless not obstruct normal traffic by driving abnormally slowly without a valid reason.

Yes. A Belgian autoweg may contain level intersections, roundabouts and traffic lights. Drivers must observe the applicable priority signs, signals and general intersection rules.

There is no special priority rule solely because a road is an autoweg. Drivers must follow the traffic signs, road markings and normal priority rules at the entrance or intersection.

Drivers must normally keep as close as possible to the right-hand side of the carriageway and return to the right after overtaking. Lane arrows, destination signs and other local traffic signs may require a different lane.

Voluntary stopping and parking are prohibited except on parking strips indicated by traffic sign E9a. An unavoidable stop caused by congestion, a breakdown or another emergency must be handled according to the applicable safety procedures.

No. Making a U-turn, reversing, driving against the direction of traffic and using connections through a central reservation are prohibited. If you miss a turn or exit, continue until you can change direction legally.

A vehicle may not be towed on an autoweg using only an emergency or auxiliary coupling. A professional recovery vehicle or another legally permitted towing method must be used.

No. Where an autoweg has an emergency lane, ordinary drivers may not use it to overtake congestion or continue their journey. It is reserved for authorised emergency vehicles, recovery vehicles and specified services in legally permitted circumstances.

When congestion forms on a carriageway with at least two lanes, drivers must create an emergency corridor. Vehicles in the leftmost lane move as far left as possible, while vehicles in all other lanes move as far right as possible.

Move the vehicle away from traffic when possible and activate the hazard warning lights. If the vehicle cannot be moved from a place where stopping or parking is prohibited, place the warning triangle at least 30 metres behind the vehicle. The driver must wear a retro-reflective safety vest when leaving a broken-down vehicle stopped at such a location.

A legally designated Belgian residential area begins at traffic sign F12a. Its special rules continue throughout the area until traffic sign F12b indicates the end.

Belgium’s new Code of the Public Road takes effect on 1 June 2027. The residential-area signs are renumbered: the current traffic sign F12a for the beginning of a residential area becomes traffic sign R5, while traffic sign F12b for the end of a residential area becomes traffic sign R7. The special traffic rules for residential areas continue to apply between the beginning and end signs. During the transition period, drivers may encounter both the current and new signs.

No. The special rules apply only to roads included in an officially designated woonerf or erf marked by sign F12a. An ordinary residential street remains subject to the normal road rules and any other posted zone restrictions.

In a woonerf, the residential function is predominant. An erf has similar road characteristics, but may also contain shops, workshops, tourism, education or recreational activities. The traffic rules are the same in both areas.

The maximum speed is 20 km/h. Drivers must still travel more slowly when necessary to avoid endangering or hindering pedestrians.

Pedestrians may use the entire width of the public road. They are not limited to a pavement, although they may not obstruct traffic unnecessarily.

Yes. Playing is permitted throughout the area. Drivers must therefore be especially cautious around children and be prepared to slow down or stop immediately.

Drivers may not endanger or hinder pedestrians and must stop when necessary. Pedestrians may use the whole road, but they may not obstruct vehicle traffic without a reason.

Yes. Cyclists and motor vehicles may normally enter unless additional traffic signs prohibit or restrict them. All drivers must respect the 20 km/h limit and must not endanger or hinder pedestrians.

Parking is permitted only in spaces marked by road markings or a differently coloured surface bearing the letter P, or in places where a traffic sign expressly permits parking.

Yes. In a woonerf or erf, a stationary or parked vehicle may be positioned on either the right or left side relative to its direction of travel, provided parking is allowed at that location.

The special rule restricts parking, not every brief stop. General stopping rules still apply, and a vehicle may not be stopped where it creates danger or unnecessarily obstructs other road users.

No. A Zone 30 mainly imposes a maximum speed of 30 km/h. In a woonerf or erf, the limit is 20 km/h, pedestrians may use the whole public road, playing is permitted and parking is restricted to authorised places.

The special rules remain applicable throughout the area until the driver passes the F12b end sign. After that sign, the speed limit and other rules of the surrounding road or zone apply again.

A Belgian built-up area begins at traffic sign F1a or F1b, which normally displays the name of the place together with a built-up-area symbol. It ends at traffic sign F3a or F3b. After the end sign, the speed limits and other rules applicable outside built-up areas take effect unless another sign indicates otherwise.

Belgium’s new Code of the Public Road takes effect on 1 June 2027. The current traffic signs F1a and F1b marking the beginning of a built-up area are replaced by traffic sign R25, while the current traffic signs F3a and F3b marking the end are replaced by traffic sign R27. The new signs may be vertical or horizontal and may appear with or without the name of the built-up area and with or without an indication of the applicable speed limit.

No. Under Belgian traffic law, a built-up area is an area with buildings whose entrances are marked by F1a or F1b signs and whose exits are marked by F3a or F3b signs. Drivers should therefore rely on the official signs rather than the appearance of the road alone.

The general maximum speed is 30 km/h in the Brussels-Capital Region and 50 km/h in the Flemish and Walloon Regions. A traffic sign may impose or permit another speed, and lower vehicle-specific limits may still apply.

No. The general limit inside Brussels built-up areas is 30 km/h, but traffic sign C43 may indicate a lower or higher limit on a particular road.

Yes. Traffic sign C43 may impose or permit another maximum speed. A signed speed zone, Zone 30, school environment, woonerf or erf may also apply its own limit.

When an ordinary C43 sign indicates another speed inside a built-up area, the general limit normally applies again after the next intersection: 30 km/h in Brussels and 50 km/h in Flanders and Wallonia. A zonal speed limit continues until its end-of-zone sign.

If you remain inside the built-up area, the normal built-up-area limit applies again: 30 km/h in Brussels or 50 km/h in Flanders and Wallonia, unless another sign indicates a different limit.

No. A built-up area may contain roads with different speed limits. A Zone 30 imposes a maximum speed of 30 km/h, while a woonerf or erf has a 20 km/h limit and additional pedestrian, playing and parking rules.

Yes. Inside a built-up area, a driver travelling in the same direction must allow a bus or trolleybus to leave its stop when its driver indicates the intention to move off. You must slow down and stop if necessary.

Inside a built-up area, a car or motorcycle driver must leave at least one metre between the vehicle and a cyclist or rider of a two-wheeled moped. Outside a built-up area, the minimum distance is 1.5 metres.

Inside a built-up area, a driver must leave at least one metre when passing a pedestrian who is legally using the carriageway. Outside a built-up area, the minimum distance is 1.5 metres. If the required distance cannot be maintained, the driver may travel only at walking pace and must stop if necessary.

Yes. Cyclists and speed-pedelec riders using the carriageway may ride two abreast unless this makes it impossible for traffic travelling in the opposite direction to pass. The additional obligation to ride single file when a vehicle approaches from behind applies outside built-up areas.

Stopping and parking on a pavement are prohibited. Inside a built-up area, stopping or parking on a raised verge is also prohibited unless local regulations expressly allow it.

The warning triangle is normally placed at least 30 metres behind the vehicle on an ordinary road. Inside a built-up area, when that distance cannot be maintained, it may be placed closer to the vehicle or, when necessary, on the vehicle.

A Belgian traffic zone is normally indicated by a rectangular zonal sign displaying the applicable prohibition, speed restriction or parking rule. For example, a Zone 30 begins at traffic sign F4a and ends at traffic sign F4b. Other zonal regulations use the relevant prohibition sign from the C series or parking and stopping sign from the E series within a zonal panel. The corresponding end-zone sign indicates where the zonal regulation ends.

Belgium’s new Code of the Public Road takes effect on 1 June 2027. Zonal traffic signs receive their own numbering: traffic sign Z1 marks the beginning of a zone and traffic sign Z3 marks the end. The traffic sign whose rule applies throughout the zone is displayed within these signs. A Z5 sign may be used as a reminder of the zonal regulation. For example, a speed zone may be indicated by Z1-C43 at the beginning and Z3-C43 at the end.

Zonal validity may be given to certain prohibition signs and signs concerning parking. Not every Belgian traffic sign may be used as a zonal sign.

The regulation applies throughout the entire area enclosed by the zone signs. It may therefore cover several roads, road sections and intersections.

No. Passing an intersection does not normally end a zonal regulation. The rule continues until the corresponding end-zone sign or another legally applicable change is reached.

The zone ends when you pass the corresponding end-zone sign. The rules applicable to the surrounding road, built-up area or another zone then take effect.

A speed zone is an area in which the maximum speed displayed on a zonal C43 sign applies from the beginning of the zone until its end.

A zonal speed limit of 30 km/h may be introduced. Zonal limits of 50 km/h and 70 km/h may also be used outside built-up areas under the conditions prescribed by Belgian regulations.

A Zone 30 begins at traffic sign F4a and ends at traffic sign F4b. The maximum permitted speed throughout the zone is 30 km/h.

Yes. An ordinary C43 sign may impose a lower speed on a particular road section. From the next intersection, the original zonal speed applies again without the zone sign having to be repeated.

No. An ordinary C43 sign displaying a speed higher than the zonal speed may not be placed within the speed zone.

The original zonal speed limit applies again after leaving the woonerf, erf or school environment. The original zone sign does not normally need to be repeated.

Yes. A different speed zone may be created within a larger zone. Where the original zone continues afterwards, its entrance sign must be displayed again when legally required.

A zonal parking rule applies throughout the defined area. A different parking regulation may nevertheless be indicated for a particular location by local parking signs or road markings.

Yes. Belgian signs may introduce up to two zonal regulations together at an entrance, subject to the prescribed exceptions and placement rules.

No. The sign does not normally need to be repeated after each intersection. A reminder sign may nevertheless be placed with the word Herhaling.

Small stickers or recognition signs displaying the zonal speed may be attached to lighting or traffic poles as reminders. They are informational reminders and do not create a speed restriction by themselves.

No. Entering a Zone 30 does not by itself change priority at intersections. Drivers must continue to follow priority signs, traffic signals and the normal priority rules.

Not necessarily. Text, symbols or additional panels may specify that a zonal rule applies only to certain vehicles, road users, times or conditions.

A local maximum speed is normally indicated by traffic sign C43, a circular sign displaying the permitted speed. It is prohibited to drive faster than the number shown. The end of a speed restriction imposed by sign C43 may be indicated by traffic sign C45.

No. It is the maximum permitted speed. Drivers must adjust their speed to other road users, weather, visibility, traffic density, the condition of the road and the condition and load of the vehicle.

Yes. A driver must always be able to stop before a foreseeable obstruction. Travelling at the displayed limit may therefore still be too fast in rain, fog, darkness, congestion or near vulnerable road users.

The general limit is 30 km/h in the Brussels-Capital Region and 50 km/h in the Flemish and Walloon Regions. Traffic signs or special road rules may impose or permit another speed.

For cars and other vehicles with a maximum authorised mass not exceeding 3.5 tonnes, the general limit on ordinary roads is 70 km/h. A C43 sign may impose or permit another limit. Physically divided roads with at least two lanes in each direction may allow up to 120 km/h.

For cars and other vehicles with a maximum authorised mass not exceeding 3.5 tonnes, the general limit on ordinary roads is 90 km/h. The limit is 70 km/h on a middle carriageway. Traffic signs and vehicle-specific rules may impose a lower limit.

On ordinary roads outside built-up areas, the general maximum speed is 70 km/h. Physically divided roads with at least two lanes in each direction may legally allow up to 120 km/h, although lower signed limits are widely used.

The general maximum for vehicles and combinations with a maximum authorised mass not exceeding 3.5 tonnes is 120 km/h. Lower signed, variable or vehicle-specific limits take precedence.

Yes. Vehicle-specific limits apply to buses, coaches, heavy vehicles and certain other vehicles. For example, vehicles and combinations exceeding 3.5 tonnes and buses are generally limited to 90 km/h on motorways.

Drivers must respect the lowest applicable maximum arising from the traffic sign, road type, vehicle category or special road regulation.

The restriction begins at the C43 sign. Drivers must therefore reduce their speed before passing the sign.

An ordinary C43 limit applies until the next intersection, another C43 sign, a zonal speed sign, or a sign marking the beginning or end of a built-up area, woonerf, erf or pedestrian zone. It may also be ended by sign C45.

Traffic sign C45 indicates the end of the speed restriction imposed by a preceding C43 sign. The general or otherwise applicable speed limit then resumes.

Traffic sign C46 indicates the end of all local prohibitions applying to moving vehicles, including an applicable local speed restriction.

No. A zonal speed limit continues across intersections until the corresponding end-of-zone sign is passed.

Yes. A C43 sign may impose a lower limit on a particular section. From the next intersection, the original zonal limit applies again without the zone sign being repeated.

No. A C43 sign displaying a speed higher than the zonal speed may not be placed inside that speed zone.

The maximum speed is 20 km/h. Drivers must also avoid endangering or hindering pedestrians, who may use the entire public road.

The maximum speed is 30 km/h from the Zone 30 entrance sign until the corresponding end sign.

The maximum speed is 30 km/h. Motor vehicles may not overtake cyclists or speed-pedelec riders within the cycling zone.

Drivers must approach a legally designated raised device cautiously and cross it at no more than 30 km/h.

Yes. When a regulatory sign is positioned above a lane, its instruction applies only to that lane or indicated part of the public road.

Yes. A supplementary panel may limit a C43 restriction to vehicles exceeding a displayed maximum authorised mass or to another indicated category.

Yes. Regulatory signs displayed through variable-message or lane-control systems retain their legal meaning. Drivers must obey the active displayed limit.

No. Belgian law does not provide a general exception allowing drivers to exceed the maximum speed while overtaking.

Drivers may travel slowly for a valid safety or traffic reason, but they may not obstruct the normal movement of other drivers by travelling abnormally slowly without justification.

A Belgian fietspad is a part of the public road reserved for bicycles and two-wheeled class A mopeds by traffic sign D7, sign D9 or the legally prescribed road markings. A fietspad is not part of the carriageway.

Belgium’s new Code of the Public Road takes effect on 1 June 2027. The existing traffic sign D7 continues to indicate a mandatory bike path, while a new traffic sign D8 explicitly marks its end. The new Road Code also introduces a non-mandatory bike path: traffic sign R12 marks its beginning and traffic sign R13 its end. Cyclists, speed pedelec riders and drivers of class A mopeds may use a non-mandatory bike path but are not required to do so.

It may be indicated by traffic sign D7, by the cyclist section of sign D9, or by two parallel white broken lines enclosing a space that is not wide enough for motor traffic.

Traffic sign D7 indicates a mandatory bike path. Cyclists and class A moped riders must use it when it is usable and signposted for their direction of travel.

Traffic sign D9 indicates a part of the public road divided between pedestrians and cyclists. Each category must use the section assigned to it, normally separated by a continuous white line or a clear difference in surface material.

No. Sign D10 indicates a part of the public road shared by pedestrians and cyclists. Cyclists must use it, but it is not included in the legal definition of a Belgian fietspad.

Yes. Cyclists and class A moped riders must use a usable bike path marked by two parallel broken white lines when it lies on the right in their direction of travel.

No. A bike path indicated only by the two parallel broken white lines may not be used when it lies on the left in the cyclist’s direction of travel.

A path indicated by D7 or D9 may be used from the left side when it is signposted for the cyclist’s direction of travel. A two-way D7 path must therefore be signposted in both directions.

Not always. When a signed path lies on the left, cyclists and class A moped riders may remain on the right side of the road if special circumstances justify this.

Yes. Cyclists and permitted moped riders may leave it to change direction, overtake another user or travel around an obstruction.

Yes. Two-wheeled class A moped riders must generally follow usable bike paths under the same directional rules as cyclists.

Where the speed limit is 50 km/h or lower, class B moped riders may use a D7 or marked bike path provided they do not endanger its other users. Where the speed limit is higher than 50 km/h, they must use an available and usable D7 or marked bike path. Supplementary signs may require or prohibit their use.

Where the speed limit is 50 km/h or lower, speed-pedelec riders may use D7, D9 and marked bike paths provided they do not endanger other users. Where the speed limit is higher, they must use an available and usable path of those types. Supplementary signs may impose another rule.

No. Under the current Belgian Highway Code, D10 is reserved for pedestrians and ordinary cyclists. Speed pedelecs are not permitted on a path indicated by D10.

Pedestrians normally use the available pedestrian facilities first. They may use an ordinary bike path only when the higher-priority pedestrian facilities are unavailable or unusable, and must then give way to the other bike-path users. D9 and D10 paths have specific pedestrian provisions.

Yes, where necessary and permitted, for example when entering a property or turning into another road. A driver crossing a pavement or bike path must give way to the road users legally using it.

No. Cyclists approaching a separately marked cycle crossing must enter it cautiously and take account of approaching vehicles. Drivers must approach at moderate speed and must not endanger or hinder cyclists already completing the crossing.

A driver who crosses the continuing bike path must give way to its legal users. Drivers turning must also give way to road users continuing along the other parts of the same public road.

No. Stopping and parking are prohibited on bike paths. They are also prohibited within five metres of a place where cyclists or moped riders must leave the path for the carriageway or enter it from the carriageway.

No. Users of a Belgian bike path may not hinder or endanger one another or behave dangerously towards other road users.

Cycle tourists riding in a legally regulated group of at least 15 participants are not required to use the bike path when they comply with the special group-cycling rules.

A Belgian cycling zone begins at traffic sign F111 and ends at traffic sign F113. The word indicating the cycling zone on these signs is optional.

Belgium’s new Code of the Public Road takes effect on 1 June 2027. The current traffic sign F111 marking the beginning of a cycling zone becomes traffic sign R17, while traffic sign F113 marking the end becomes traffic sign R19. The new signs refer to a cycling zone, and the applicable maximum speed may be displayed on the sign. Cyclists may use the full width of the carriageway when it is open only in their direction and the right-hand half when traffic is permitted in both directions. Existing F111 and F113 signs with zonal validity or the wording indicating a cyclist street may remain valid until 1 January 2035.

The current Belgian legal term is fietszone, or cycling zone. The older term fietsstraat, meaning bicycle street, may still appear on existing traffic signs.

Yes. Existing F111 and F113 signs bearing the older term Fietsstraat may remain in use until 1 January 2035 and continue to indicate a cycling zone.

Yes. A fietszone may consist of one or more public roads on which the special rules concerning cyclists apply.

The maximum speed is 30 km/h. This limit applies to every driver, including cyclists and speed-pedelec riders.

Yes. Motor vehicles are permitted unless additional traffic signs restrict access. Their drivers must respect the 30 km/h limit and the prohibition on overtaking cyclists.

No. Motor vehicles may not overtake cyclists within the cycling zone, even when the road appears wide enough to maintain the normal passing distance.

The special prohibition concerns the overtaking of cyclists. Motor vehicles may pass other vehicles only where the ordinary overtaking rules allow it and the manoeuvre can be completed safely.

Yes. The special overtaking prohibition applies to motor vehicles overtaking cyclists. Cyclists may overtake another vehicle when this is otherwise legal and safe.

Yes. Cyclists may overtake other cyclists when sufficient space and visibility are available and the manoeuvre does not endanger other road users.

When the carriageway is open to traffic only in the cyclists’ direction, cyclists may use the entire width of the carriageway.

When the carriageway is open in both directions, cyclists may use the right-hand half of the carriageway in their direction of travel.

Yes. Their right to use the entire carriageway on a one-way street, or its right-hand half on a two-way street, allows cyclists to ride side by side within that space when it is safe.

Yes. For the Belgian cycling-zone rules, drivers of cycles and speed pedelecs are treated as cyclists.

No. The ordinary priority rules remain applicable. Cyclists must obey traffic lights, give-way and stop signs, priority-from-the-right rules and pedestrian crossings.

No. Traffic sign F111 introduces the cycling-zone rules but does not by itself make the road a priority road or give cyclists priority over crossing traffic.

No. A cycling zone is not a woonerf, pedestrian zone or shared pedestrian area. Pedestrians must follow the normal rules concerning pavements, verges, crossings and use of the carriageway.

The cycling-zone rules do not create a general stopping or parking prohibition. Drivers must follow the ordinary parking rules and any signs or markings and may not obstruct traffic or endanger cyclists.

No. Red surfacing, bicycle symbols and road markings may make the zone more visible, but the legal cycling-zone rules begin with traffic sign F111.

The special rules end when the driver passes traffic sign F113. The ordinary speed, positioning and overtaking rules then apply unless another sign introduces a different regulation.

A Belgian pedestrian zone begins at traffic sign F103 and ends at traffic sign F105. The entrance sign may also display authorised users, access hours and other conditions.

Belgium’s new Code of the Public Road takes effect on 1 June 2027. The current traffic sign F103 marking the beginning of a pedestrian zone becomes traffic sign R14, while traffic sign F105 marking the end becomes traffic sign R15. Under the new rules, cyclists, other cycle users and speed pedelec riders are allowed to enter a pedestrian zone unless traffic signs prohibit them from doing so. They must adapt their behaviour to pedestrians and, when pedestrian traffic is too dense, dismount and continue on foot.

By default, only pedestrians may enter. Vehicles and cyclists may enter only when they belong to a legally permitted category or when the entrance sign expressly permits their access.

Permitted categories include vehicles used to supervise, inspect, maintain or clean the zone, authorised priority vehicles when required by their mission and vehicles operating regular public-transport services.

Living in the zone does not automatically provide vehicle access. A driver may enter when the vehicle’s garage is located inside the zone and can be reached only through it, subject to the required access card.

Only when cyclist access is indicated on the F103 entrance sign. The sign may restrict cycling to particular hours or days.

Yes. Cyclists must dismount when the density of pedestrian traffic makes it difficult for them to continue riding safely.

Delivery vehicles may enter when the F103 sign permits loading or unloading and must respect the displayed hours, days and access conditions. Certain businesses may also receive access in cases of absolute necessity under the legally prescribed permit rules.

Taxis may enter when the entrance sign permits them and when they have a specific destination inside the zone to collect or drop off passengers. Any displayed time restrictions must be respected.

Yes. Priority vehicles may enter when the nature of their official assignment justifies doing so.

Vehicles operating regular public-transport services may enter a Belgian pedestrian zone. Pedestrians should therefore remain attentive even though the area is primarily reserved for them.

Vehicles used in the practice of a medical profession or for home care may enter under the applicable access-card requirements.

An official free-passage card is required for several categories, including eligible garage users, certain business deliveries, vehicles carrying out work, medical or home-care vehicles and specified tourist or horse-drawn transport.

Pedestrians may use the full width of the public road throughout the pedestrian zone.

Every authorised driver must travel at walking pace. Belgian law does not express this rule as a fixed numerical speed limit.

Authorised drivers must leave pedestrians free passage, stop when necessary and must not endanger or hinder them.

Yes. Playing is legally permitted, although authorised vehicles, cyclists and public transport may still be present.

No. Parking is prohibited throughout the pedestrian zone, including for vehicles that are otherwise authorised to enter.

Authorised loading or unloading may take place under the conditions shown on the entrance sign. The vehicle may not remain longer than necessary or turn the stop into prohibited parking.

No. It remains a pedestrian zone. Pedestrians retain the use of the full road width, and cyclists must adapt to pedestrian traffic and dismount when necessary.

No. A pedestrian zone may include one or more connected public roads. Its rules continue until traffic sign F105 indicates the exit.

The special rules end when a road user passes traffic sign F105. The rules of the surrounding road or another signed area then apply.

It may be announced by warning sign A14 and indicated at its location by sign F87. At an intersection, it may be announced using A14 alone. Raised devices inside a Zone 30 are also covered by the special rules.

Belgium’s new Code of the Public Road takes effect on 1 June 2027. Unlike many other Belgian traffic signs, the signs relating to speed bumps keep their existing numbers: traffic sign A14 warns of a raised traffic-calming device, while traffic sign F87 indicates the raised device itself. The new Road Code defines a raised device as an installation placed across the public road to reduce traffic speed. Overtaking and stopping on the carriageway are prohibited on such raised devices.

A Belgian speed bump is a type of raised traffic-calming device, legally described as a raised construction placed across the public road to reduce speed.

Belgian regulations distinguish between a speed bump, which has a rounded sinusoidal profile, and a speed table, which has one or more ramps leading to a flat raised section.

Traffic sign A14 warns drivers that one or more raised traffic-calming devices are ahead.

Traffic sign F87 indicates the location of one or more raised traffic-calming devices.

Drivers must approach the regulated raised device with extra caution and moderate speed and must cross it at no more than 30 km/h.

No. Thirty kilometres per hour is the maximum. Drivers must cross more slowly when required by the shape of the device, the vehicle, weather, visibility, pedestrians or other traffic conditions.

It applies to regulated raised devices announced by A14 and F87, devices at intersections announced by A14, and raised devices situated within a Zone 30 marked by F4a and F4b.

Not by itself. The special 30 km/h limit applies while crossing the raised device. After it, the previous road limit resumes unless a C43 sign, Zone 30 or another rule continues to impose 30 km/h.

No. The special rules apply to raised devices covered by the Belgian legal definition, signposting and technical requirements. Drivers must nevertheless approach every visible obstruction at a safe and adapted speed.

A regulated Belgian speed bump is a local rounded elevation with a sinusoidal profile. A speed table has a longer flat raised section with sloping approaches and may extend across an intersection or crossing area.

The standard regulated speed bump has a length of 4.80 metres and a maximum height of 12 centimetres, subject to the technical tolerances and provisions for older installations.

No. A speed cushion does not extend across the full width of the traffic lane. It is not automatically a regulated 30 km/h raised device, although it may be used within a road or zone where another speed limit applies.

The left-side overtaking of a team, a two-wheeled motor vehicle or a vehicle with more than two wheels is prohibited on a raised device. All other passing manoeuvres remain subject to the ordinary safety and overtaking rules.

No. Stopping and parking on a raised device are prohibited unless a local regulation expressly provides otherwise.

No. The raised device alone does not create pedestrian priority. Pedestrians have priority when a pedestrian crossing, traffic signal or another applicable rule gives it to them.

No. Drivers must continue to follow the applicable priority signs, traffic signals and priority-from-the-right rules. The raised construction itself does not determine priority.

Reduce speed before the device, keep the vehicle under control and cross it smoothly. Avoid harsh braking, sudden acceleration or swerving onto another part of the road.

Customs controls are performed by the Belgian General Administration of Customs and Excise, which forms part of the Federal Public Service Finance.

Belgian customs supervises goods entering or leaving the European Union customs territory, collects applicable import duties, excise duties and import VAT, and helps prevent illegal or unsafe trade.

No. There are no customs duties or routine customs controls at borders between EU Member States because they form one customs union. Specific checks concerning excise goods, prohibited goods, commercial activity or fraud may still occur.

Generally, yes. Goods on which the required taxes have been paid in another EU Member State may normally be brought into Belgium without additional customs duties. Special rules continue to apply to excise goods, vehicles, protected goods and prohibited or restricted products.

Yes. Goods entering Belgium from outside the EU customs territory are subject to EU customs rules. Travellers may benefit from personal allowances, but goods exceeding those allowances or subject to restrictions must be declared.

No. Schengen concerns controls on people crossing internal borders, while the customs union concerns goods and customs duties. Some Schengen countries are outside the EU customs union, and customs formalities may therefore still apply.

Customs controls may take place at seaports, airports, ferry terminals, freight facilities, parcel centres or inland road-control locations. Controls are not limited to a visible national border.

Yes. Customs personnel acting in the course of their duties are competent persons under the Belgian Highway Code. Road users must immediately obey their orders, which take precedence over traffic signs and ordinary traffic rules.

Reduce speed safely, stop at the indicated location and follow the officer’s instructions. Present the requested identity, vehicle, travel, goods or transport documents and do not continue until permitted.

No. The former C47 image bearing the words Douane-Zoll was abolished on 16 July 2026.

Traffic sign C47 now indicates a toll post. Drivers are prohibited from passing it without stopping. The inscription may be replaced by the word Taks.

A customs control may use temporary signs, barriers, lane-control signals, road markings, police instructions or direct signals from customs officers. Drivers must follow the control arrangement in place rather than expect one specific customs sign.

Yes, from €10 000. Accompanied cash and other qualifying liquid assets with a total value of €10 000 or more must be declared when entering or leaving the European Union.

The declaration must be submitted to customs in the EU Member State of first arrival when entering the Union or the last Member State of departure when leaving it.

The rules cover cash, certain bearer-negotiable instruments and specified forms of gold, including qualifying gold coins, bars, nuggets and gold dust.

Yes, where authorised by law. A customs control may include inspection of the vehicle, luggage, transported goods and relevant documents.

Useful documents may include identification, vehicle papers, purchase receipts, invoices, customs forms, permits and proof that valuable personal items were already owned before the journey.

Use the declaration channel where available or ask a customs officer before leaving the control area. Declaring or requesting guidance is safer than assuming an exemption applies.

Yes. Goods may be detained or seized, and duties, taxes, fines or other legal consequences may follow when customs requirements are not respected.

Traffic sign F19 indicates a public road with one-way traffic. Drivers may travel only in the direction shown by the arrow.

Traffic sign C1 means that entry in that direction is prohibited for every driver, unless a supplementary sign provides an exception.

Belgium’s new Code of the Public Road takes effect on 1 June 2027. The main traffic signs for one-way traffic keep their existing numbers: traffic sign F19 continues to indicate a public road with one-way traffic, while traffic sign C1 continues to indicate a prohibited direction for all drivers. Traffic sign A39 continues to warn that two-way traffic begins after a section of one-way road. Drivers who are exceptionally allowed to travel in the opposite direction, such as certain cyclists, must keep as far to the right as possible.

F19 is placed at the permitted entrance and confirms the one-way direction. C1 is placed at the opposite end and prohibits entry from that direction.

Yes. Drivers may not travel against the indicated direction unless their vehicle category is expressly exempted by a supplementary sign.

Yes, when supplementary signs permit it. An M4 panel with F19 indicates that cyclists may ride in both directions. The corresponding exception is displayed beneath the C1 sign at the opposite entrance.

They may do so when the signs contain the appropriate M5 or corresponding exception panel. Without that indicated exception, they must follow the ordinary one-way direction.

They may do so when the appropriate supplementary sign, such as M17 or M18, expressly permits them to travel in both directions.

Yes. When supplementary signs permit contraflow cycling, drivers must expect cyclists or other authorised two-wheeled vehicles to approach from the opposite direction.

No. When the signs legally permit contraflow cycling, the cyclist is travelling in an authorised direction and must be treated as lawful traffic.

No. F19 regulates only the direction of traffic. Drivers must continue to obey priority signs, traffic lights and the priority-from-the-right rule where applicable.

Yes. When the cyclist is authorised to travel against the general one-way direction, the ordinary priority rules may apply. Drivers should not assume that an approaching cyclist is coming from a prohibited direction.

There is no special speed limit solely because the road is one-way. The applicable limit depends on the region, built-up area, speed zone, road type and traffic signs.

Drivers must normally keep as close as possible to the right-hand side, unless lane selection, overtaking, congestion, turning or another traffic rule justifies a different position.

On a one-way carriageway, a driver turning left must normally move as close as possible to the left-hand edge before completing the turn at moderate speed.

Not merely because the road is one-way. Overtaking normally takes place on the left. Overtaking on the right is permitted in specific situations, such as when the vehicle ahead has indicated a left turn and has moved left. Faster movement in another marked lane or traffic queue may not legally count as overtaking in certain conditions.

Yes. On a Belgian one-way carriageway, a stationary or parked vehicle may be positioned along either side, provided stopping or parking is permitted and all other positioning and clearance rules are respected.

The rule allowing parking on either side does not remove the other legal positioning requirements. Drivers should enter the parking place from the permitted direction and position the vehicle safely and lawfully.

Reversing is a manoeuvre, so the driver must give way to all other road users. It may be used only where it is safe and not otherwise prohibited; it must not be used as a way to travel along the road against the prescribed direction.

You may not turn around and then continue against the one-way direction. A driver who has missed a destination should continue in the permitted direction and use another legal route.

Yes. Traffic sign F85 indicates that traffic is permitted in both directions on a section of a carriageway that otherwise carries one-way traffic, often because of roadworks or a temporary traffic arrangement.

Traffic sign A39 warns that two-way traffic begins after a section of carriageway with one-way traffic.

Check carefully before turning across the road, leaving a parking place, crossing a cycle route or opening a door. Supplementary signs may permit cyclists, class A mopeds or speed pedelecs to approach from the opposite direction.

Belgian warning sign A11 indicates that the road leads onto a quay or riverbank.

Belgium’s new Code of the Public Road takes effect on 1 June 2027. The warning sign for an exit onto a quay or bank keeps its existing number: traffic sign A11. The design of the sign is updated to make it clearer that the danger involves water, but its meaning remains the same.

It warns that drivers are approaching a waterside edge where the road may lead directly towards or alongside a quay, bank, canal, harbour or similar body of water.

Not necessarily. The road may end at the water, turn near it or continue along the quay. Drivers must slow down and observe the actual layout.

No. A11 is a warning sign and does not itself prohibit access. A barrier, prohibition sign or instruction from an authorised person may impose an additional restriction.

No fixed numerical limit is created by A11. Drivers must respect the applicable speed limit and reduce their speed sufficiently to approach the danger safely.

In Brussels and Flanders, warning signs are normally placed approximately 150 metres before the danger. When the sign is placed at another distance, a supplementary panel indicates the approximate distance.

Yes. Drivers must adjust their speed so they remain able to stop before a foreseeable obstruction or danger, including the end or edge of the road.

No. Drivers must continue to obey traffic lights, priority signs and the normal priority rules at nearby intersections.

A11 does not create an automatic stopping or parking prohibition. However, stopping or parking is prohibited wherever the vehicle would clearly create danger or unnecessarily obstruct other road users.

Yes. Parking signs, road markings, port regulations or access conditions may reserve areas for loading, authorised vehicles, emergency access or other specific purposes.

A11 does not create a specific overtaking prohibition. Overtaking is nevertheless unsafe when the road is narrow, visibility is limited or insufficient space remains beside the waterside edge.

Drivers may encounter pedestrians, cyclists, dock workers, trucks, forklifts, cranes, railway vehicles and other port equipment. Their movements may be difficult to predict.

You must obey instructions given by persons who are legally authorised to regulate traffic. Gates, lights, temporary signs and marked traffic routes within a port or controlled site must also be respected.

Rain, frost, water, mud, algae, oil and cargo residue can reduce grip. Railway tracks, metal covers and painted surfaces may also become slippery when wet.

Use only an authorised parking place, keep a safe distance from the edge and secure the vehicle properly with its parking brake. Follow all local signs, markings and instructions.

Only when necessary and after checking that the route is completely clear. Use assistance from another person where available, particularly with a truck, trailer or vehicle with restricted rear visibility.

No. Drivers remain responsible for observing the road and adapting their speed. A quay, canal or riverbank may still require additional caution even when no A11 sign is present.

Traffic sign A3 warns of a dangerous descent, while traffic sign A5 warns of a steep ascent.

Belgium’s new Code of the Public Road takes effect on 1 June 2027. The warning signs keep their existing numbers: traffic sign A3 warns of a dangerous descent and traffic sign A5 warns of a dangerous ascent. The percentage shown on the sign indicates the gradient of the slope. Under the new Road Code, the meaning of A5 is broadened from a “steep ascent” to a dangerous ascent.

Sign A3 warns that the road ahead descends steeply or dangerously in the direction of travel.

Sign A5 warns that the road ahead rises steeply in the direction of travel.

A displayed gradient of 10% means that the road rises or falls approximately 10 metres over a horizontal distance of 100 metres. It does not represent an angle of 10 degrees.

Under the current Belgian placement rules, these signs may be used for carriageways with an ascent or descent of at least 7%.

No. They are warning signs. Drivers must respect the applicable maximum speed and reduce their speed sufficiently for the gradient, visibility, traffic and road conditions.

Reduce speed before the descent, select a suitable gear and keep the vehicle under control. Drivers must always be able to stop before a foreseeable obstruction.

No. Keep the transmission engaged so that engine braking helps control the vehicle. Coasting can allow the vehicle to gain speed and places more demand on the brakes.

Select a suitable gear early and maintain a controlled speed. Expect heavy vehicles, agricultural vehicles or vehicles towing trailers to travel more slowly.

Left-side overtaking of a team, a two-wheeled motor vehicle or a vehicle with more than two wheels is prohibited when approaching the crest of a slope with insufficient visibility. An exception applies where overtaking can be completed without crossing the continuous line separating opposing traffic.

No, when visibility is insufficient. Stopping and parking on the carriageway near the top of a slope are prohibited where the vehicle would be difficult for approaching road users to see.

No. Belgian law does not give uphill traffic a universal priority solely because of the slope. Drivers must follow priority signs and the ordinary crossing rules.

The driver whose passage is obstructed must slow down and, when necessary, stop to allow approaching road users to pass.

No. Signs A3 and A5 warn of the gradient but do not alter intersection priority. Traffic lights, priority signs and the ordinary priority rules remain applicable.

Yes, when necessary. Belgian drivers must adapt their speed to the road layout, visibility, traffic, weather, vehicle condition and load.

Heavy vehicles require more distance to slow down and their brakes may heat up during long descents. Additional following distance provides more time to react and brake progressively.

Drivers must leave at least one metre inside a built-up area and 1.5 metres outside a built-up area. They should wait when the crest, bend or oncoming traffic prevents a safe pass.

Apply the parking brake firmly, select a gear or the transmission’s parking position and take every necessary precaution to prevent the vehicle from moving or being misused.

A Belgian bus lane is indicated by traffic sign F17 or traffic sign F18. A lane indicated by F17 is reserved for regular public-transport vehicles and is separated from the rest of the carriageway by one or two broad white broken lines. A special passable lane indicated by F18 is marked by a checkerboard pattern of white squares and may also be used by other categories of road users when this is permitted by the sign.

Belgium’s new Code of the Public Road takes effect on 1 June 2027. The current distinction between the bus lane indicated by traffic sign F17 and the special passable lane indicated by traffic sign F18 disappears. Both are combined into a single system indicated by a redesigned traffic sign F17. The new bus lane may be separated by continuous or broken markings; where the continuous marking changes to a broken marking, other vehicles may enter the bus lane to change direction at the next intersection. The old F17 and F18 signs and their associated road markings may remain in use until 1 June 2030.

No. Under the current Belgian Highway Code, a bus lane does not legally form part of the carriageway.

Vehicles operating scheduled public-transport services may use the bus lane.

Yes. Under the current transitional rule, school-transport vehicles may use bus lanes until 31 May 2027 even when their symbol is not displayed. The new road code continues this transitional permission until 1 June 2030.

Yes. Taxis may currently use bus lanes even when the word or symbol for taxis is absent. This transitional permission continues under the new road code until 1 June 2030.

When their word, symbol or identification sign appears on F17 or an additional panel, the lane may also be used by cyclists, mopeds, motorcycles, coaches, buses, commuter vehicles, high-occupancy vehicles, sustainable-mobility vehicles or vehicles transporting people with disabilities.

Normally not. A private car may use it only when the signs expressly permit its category or in one of the limited situations allowed by the Highway Code.

No. An unauthorised driver may not use the bus lane merely to overtake congestion or reach the front of a queue.

Yes. Another vehicle may temporarily use the bus lane when necessary to pass around an obstruction on the carriageway, provided the manoeuvre can be completed safely.

Yes, in the immediate vicinity of an intersection. The driver may use the bus lane to change direction but must first check for buses, cyclists and all other authorised users.

Yes. Other vehicles may cross the bus lane at an intersection when following their permitted route.

Yes. A driver may cross it to enter or leave a property or parking place situated beside the bus lane. The driver must give way where required and must not endanger authorised lane users.

Only the necessary crossing movement is permitted. A driver may not continue along the bus lane for convenience unless another legal exception applies.

No. Cyclists may use a bus lane only when the bicycle symbol or another legally valid indication permits them.

Yes, under the current Highway Code. Cyclists using an authorised bus lane must ride one behind another.

Only when the applicable moped class or speed-pedelec indication permits them. Drivers must check the F17 sign and its additional panel carefully.

F17 indicates a bus lane. F18 indicates a special traversable public-transport site, which is normally separated by broad continuous markings or checkerboard markings. The permitted movements for ordinary vehicles are more limited on an F18 site.

An unauthorised driver may not use a bus lane as a stopping or parking place. Separate bus-stop, parking and local signs must also be respected, and the passage of authorised vehicles may not be obstructed.

There is no special general speed limit solely because it is a bus lane. The applicable road, regional, zonal, signed and vehicle-specific speed limits remain in force.

No. The bus lane does not itself give buses automatic priority. Drivers must follow traffic lights, priority signs and the ordinary priority rules.

Yes, inside a built-up area. A driver travelling in the same direction must allow an autobus or trolleybus to leave its stop when its driver signals the intention to move off. The approaching driver must slow down and stop if necessary.

Yes. A contraflow arrangement may reserve a lane for public transport in the opposite direction. The arrows on F17 and any supplementary signs indicate the authorised direction.

Check mirrors and blind spots and look for buses, taxis, cyclists, mopeds, motorcycles and other authorised vehicles. The bus lane may remain active while general traffic is stationary.

Traffic sign F45 indicates a dead-end road with no through route, meaning drivers entering it must normally leave again by the same route. Traffic sign F45b indicates a dead-end road for motor traffic where pedestrians and cyclists can continue.

Belgium’s new Code of the Public Road takes effect on 1 June 2027. The current traffic sign F45 for a dead-end road becomes traffic sign F45a. Traffic sign F45b continues to indicate a dead-end road where pedestrians and cyclists can continue. For both signs, the road-layout symbol may be adapted to the local situation.

No. F45 is an indication sign, not an access prohibition. Drivers may enter to reach a home, business, parking place or another destination unless an additional sign restricts access.

No through route is available for motor traffic. Motor vehicles may enter the road but must turn around before the point where their passage ends.

F45b indicates that a through connection exists for cyclists. Cyclists must still follow the signs and rules applying to the path or road beyond the dead end and may need to dismount where cycling is not permitted.

Yes. The sign specifically indicates that pedestrians can continue beyond the point where motor traffic cannot.

Not by itself. F45b identifies an exception for pedestrians and cyclists. Other vehicle categories require a separate legal permission or traffic sign.

No. The ordinary F45 sign does not indicate a through connection for pedestrians or cyclists. Road users should observe the actual layout and any additional signs.

No. The applicable regional, zonal or posted speed limit remains in force. Drivers must still adjust their speed to the road width, visibility and presence of pedestrians or cyclists.

No. Its dead-end status does not determine priority. Drivers must follow priority signs, traffic lights and the ordinary priority rules.

Not merely because the road is a dead end. The applicable priority depends on traffic signs, the type of road and the normal Belgian priority rules.

Yes, where it is not prohibited and can be done safely. Turning around is a manoeuvre, so the driver must give way to all other road users.

Yes, when necessary and safe. Reversing is a manoeuvre, so the driver must give way to every other road user and must not create danger or unnecessary obstruction.

The driver must indicate the intended movement in time when the manoeuvre involves a lateral movement or change of direction and the vehicle is equipped with direction indicators.

The F45 or F45b sign does not create a general parking prohibition. Drivers must follow the ordinary stopping and parking rules and any local signs or markings.

Only when parking is permitted and the vehicle does not create danger or unnecessary obstruction. Drivers should leave enough room for other vehicles, refuse trucks and emergency services to turn.

No. A parked or stationary vehicle must not obstruct the lawful passage of pedestrians or cyclists or force them into an unsafe position.

A Belgian dead-end road may have limited turning space. Drivers of trucks, buses, caravans or trailers should confirm that they can turn safely before entering.

Traffic sign B5 is the Belgian stop sign and means stop and give way. Traffic sign B7 announces an upcoming B5 stop sign and indicates approximately how far away it is.

Belgium’s new Code of the Public Road takes effect on 1 June 2027. Traffic sign B5 keeps its existing number and continues to mean stop and give way. The current traffic sign B7, which announces an upcoming B5 stop sign, is no longer included as a separate traffic sign. Instead, the new supplementary sign M3 is used with B5 to announce the stop sign at approximately the indicated distance.

Yes. You must come to a complete stop even when no other road user is visible.

No. The vehicle must stop completely. A rolling or very slow passage does not comply with the sign.

You must stop before the white continuous stop line. The line indicates the precise place where drivers must stop because of B5 or a traffic light.

Stop before entering the intersection or priority road, in the immediate vicinity of the B5 sign and at a position from which you can give way safely.

You must first stop at the line. You may then move forward slowly to improve your view and must stop again when necessary before entering the road.

No. The stop line marks the place before which the mandatory stop must be completed.

Yes. Each driver approaching B5 must make a separate complete stop, even when the preceding vehicle has already stopped.

You must give way to every driver travelling on the public road or carriageway you are entering. Other priority duties concerning pedestrians, cyclists and crossed paths also remain applicable.

Yes. Check every direction from which lawful traffic may approach, including contraflow cyclists or mopeds where signs permit them.

No. You may proceed only when this can be done without danger, taking account of the position, speed and distance of the road users who have priority.

B5 requires you to stop and give way. B1 requires you to give way but does not require a complete stop when you can proceed safely without stopping.

Traffic sign B7 announces that a B5 stop sign is ahead and indicates its approximate distance.

No. It is generally used to announce B5, but it is not required in certain situations, including inside built-up areas and on some very narrow roads.

Yes. A supplementary panel may indicate that cyclists, or cyclists together with certain mopeds, travel in both directions on the road being entered.

Yes. An appropriate supplementary panel may limit the stop obligation to cyclists or to cyclists together with indicated two-wheeled moped riders.

Yes. When B5 applies to their route and no exception is indicated, cyclists must stop and give way like other drivers.

Yes. Belgian roundabout entrances may be controlled by B1 or B5. When B5 is displayed, the driver must stop before giving way to traffic on the roundabout.

No, when functioning traffic lights control the same location. Belgian priority signs on that road do not apply while those traffic lights are operating.

An orange-yellow flashing light does not change the priority arrangement. A B5 sign at that location therefore remains applicable.

Follow the officer’s instruction. Orders from an authorised person take precedence over traffic lights, signs, road markings and ordinary traffic rules.

Where longitudinal markings indicate a cycle path, the stop line is normally placed before those markings and may be repeated beyond them when necessary. Drivers must avoid blocking cyclists.

No. The sign creates a stopping and yielding obligation but does not introduce a new maximum speed.

Belgian placement rules normally reserve B5 for situations where visibility is so limited that drivers cannot properly give way without first stopping.

Traffic sign B1 means that drivers must give way. Traffic sign B3 announces an upcoming B1 sign and indicates approximately how far away it is.

Belgium’s new Code of the Public Road takes effect on 1 June 2027. Traffic sign B1 keeps its existing number and continues to mean give way. The current traffic sign B3, which announces an upcoming B1 sign, is no longer included as a separate traffic sign. Instead, a distance indication can be given using supplementary sign M1 with B1.

No. You must stop only when necessary to give way or to obtain a clear view. If the road is clearly free, you may continue cautiously without making a complete stop.

You must give way to every driver travelling on the public road or carriageway you are entering.

You may proceed only when this can be done without danger, taking account of the position, speed and distance of the other road users.

A transverse row of white triangles indicates the place where drivers must, when necessary, stop to give way because of sign B1. These markings are commonly called shark teeth.

Only when stopping is necessary to give way or observe traffic. When the road is clearly free, you may cross the markings cautiously without stopping.

Approach B1 cautiously and give way before entering the intersection or priority road. Stop at a position from which you can observe traffic safely when necessary.

B1 requires drivers to give way but does not always require a stop. B5 requires drivers to stop completely and then give way.

Traffic sign B3 announces that a B1 give-way sign is ahead and indicates its approximate distance.

No. It is used where advance warning is required, particularly when B1 is not visible from a sufficient distance. Belgian placement rules provide exceptions, including certain locations inside built-up areas.

Yes, at that intersection. A driver approaching B1 must give way to traffic on the road being entered, even when that traffic approaches from the left.

Not necessarily. It establishes priority at that particular intersection. The other road is a continuing priority road only when signs such as B9 indicate that status.

Yes. Belgian roundabout entrances are normally controlled by B1 or B5. A driver approaching B1 must give way to drivers already travelling on the roundabout.

Yes. Do not enter when your movement would hinder a driver already circulating, including a vehicle travelling in an inner lane that may change position or leave the roundabout.

Yes. A supplementary panel may indicate that cyclists, or cyclists together with certain two-wheeled mopeds, travel in both directions on the road being entered.

Yes. Where contraflow or two-way cycle traffic is permitted, cyclists or mopeds may lawfully approach from either direction.

Yes. A supplementary panel may indicate that B1 applies only to cyclists or to cyclists together with specified two-wheeled moped riders.

Yes. When the sign applies to their route, cyclists must give way like other drivers.

B1 primarily regulates priority between drivers. Separate Belgian rules still require drivers to give way when turning across pedestrians with priority, crossing a pavement or cycle path, or approaching a pedestrian crossing.

Yes. A driver crossing a bike path must give way to the road users legally using it, regardless of the additional B1 obligation.

No. Even after stopping, you remain subject to B1 and may proceed only when priority traffic can continue without being hindered.

Yes. Each driver must check the road independently. You may not follow the vehicle ahead through the intersection without confirming that it remains safe.

No, when functioning traffic lights control the same road at that location. The traffic lights then determine whether you may proceed.

An orange-yellow flashing light does not change the priority arrangement. You may pass it with extra caution, but the B1 sign remains applicable.

Follow the officer’s instructions. Orders from a competent authorised person take precedence over traffic lights, signs, road markings and ordinary traffic rules.

No. It regulates priority. You must nevertheless approach at a speed that allows you to observe traffic and stop when necessary.

A Belgian rotonde is a road where traffic travels in one direction around a constructed central island. It is indicated by traffic sign D5, and its entrances are controlled by signs B1 or B5.

Belgium’s new Code of the Public Road takes effect on 1 June 2027. Traffic sign D5 keeps its existing number and continues to indicate a roundabout with compulsory circulation in the direction shown by the arrows. The new Road Code sets out specific rules for lane use on roundabouts: on a roundabout with several lanes, drivers who are not taking the first exit may use a lane other than the right-hand lane. Drivers entering a roundabout must give way to traffic already on the roundabout, and direction indicators are required when leaving the roundabout, not when entering it.

Traffic sign D5 requires traffic to circulate around the central island in the direction shown by the arrows.

Vehicles travel anticlockwise, keeping the central island on their left.

Drivers already travelling on the roundabout have priority over drivers entering through an access road controlled by B1 or B5.

At sign B1, stop only when necessary to give way. At sign B5, you must always stop completely before giving way.

No. A driver travelling on a legally signposted roundabout does not have to give way to a driver entering from the right.

No. A circular road arrangement without the required D5 and entry-priority signs may be governed by ordinary priority rules. Drivers must check the actual signs rather than rely only on the road’s shape.

No. Under the current Belgian Highway Code, entering a roundabout is considered a change of direction for which the indicators do not have to be used.

Yes. You must use the right direction indicator in time when leaving the roundabout and switch it off once the movement has been completed.

No. Signalling only communicates your intention. You must still give way when changing lanes or crossing the path of another road user.

No. On a roundabout, drivers do not have to remain as close as possible to the right-hand edge unless a part of the road is specifically reserved for them.

When the roundabout has marked lanes, you must follow the lane markings and may use the lane that best suits your destination.

Yes. You may use an inner lane when the markings permit it. Before moving to an outer lane or leaving, you must check that the movement can be made safely.

Changing lanes is a manoeuvre. You must give way to all road users already travelling in the lane you want to enter.

Only when the lane markings expressly guide that lane towards the exit. Otherwise, you must first move safely into the appropriate outer lane without cutting across another driver’s path.

Do not force your way across another lane. Continue around the roundabout and reposition safely before attempting to leave again.

There is no special general speed limit solely because it is a roundabout. The applicable regional, zonal or posted limit remains in force, but drivers must reduce their speed sufficiently for the layout and traffic conditions.

A cyclist travelling lawfully on the roundabout carriageway has priority over traffic entering through B1 or B5. Drivers must remain alert because cyclists may be less visible beside or ahead of a vehicle.

This depends on the signs, markings and design of the cycle route. A driver crossing a continuing bike path must give way to its lawful users. At a separate cycle crossing, cyclists may have to give way before entering when B1 signs or give-way markings apply to them.

Yes, when the driver crosses a bike path used lawfully by the cyclist. Drivers must also give way to road users continuing along another part of the same public road when changing direction.

Cyclists should, when possible, indicate their intention to leave by extending the right arm. They must keep both hands available when signalling would make control unsafe.

A driver changing direction must give way to pedestrians crossing the road being entered. At a marked pedestrian crossing, drivers must also give way to pedestrians who are on it or about to enter it.

The D5 sign does not by itself create a separate parking prohibition. However, the ordinary stopping and parking rules remain applicable. Parking on a carriageway divided into traffic lanes is prohibited unless an authorised parking place is provided, and no vehicle may create danger or unnecessary obstruction.

No. You must follow the mandatory direction around the central island. If you miss an exit, continue around the roundabout rather than reversing or turning against traffic.

Traffic sign B9 indicates the beginning of a priority road. Traffic sign B11 indicates the end of a priority road.

Belgium’s new Code of the Public Road takes effect on 1 June 2027. The priority-road signs keep their existing numbers: traffic sign B9 continues to indicate a priority road, while traffic sign B11 continues to indicate the end of a priority road. Their basic meaning therefore remains unchanged under the new Road Code.

B9 means that drivers following the priority road have priority at intersections over drivers entering from controlled side roads.

The priority road begins at traffic sign B9. Belgian placement rules require the sign to be installed at the beginning of the priority road.

Yes. Under the current Belgian placement rules, B9 must be repeated after every intersection while the road continues as a priority road.

No. Its priority status continues until sign B11 indicates the end. The repetition of B9 after intersections confirms that continuing status.

Drivers entering the priority road are normally controlled by traffic sign B1, meaning give way, or B5, meaning stop and give way.

Yes. Drivers entering from controlled side roads must give way whether they approach from the left or the right.

No. A driver facing B1 or B5 must give way to traffic on the priority road, including traffic approaching from the left.

No. The priority road may bend or follow another branch at an intersection. A supplementary diagram may show the route followed by the priority road.

Use the indicators whenever following the priority route causes an actual change of direction or lateral movement. Having priority does not remove the obligation to signal.

B9 indicates a continuing priority road and is repeated after intersections. B15 indicates priority only at the next intersection.

B9 indicates a priority road. B17 warns of an intersection where priority from the right applies.

No. Belgian placement rules prohibit B9 on a roundabout indicated by D5. Priority at the roundabout is established through the signs controlling its entrances.

When the traffic lights are functioning, the priority signs placed on the same road do not apply at that location. Drivers must follow the traffic lights.

The flashing orange-yellow light requires extra caution but does not suspend the priority arrangement. The B9 priority signs therefore remain relevant.

Follow the officer’s instructions. Orders from an authorised person take precedence over traffic lights, traffic signs and ordinary traffic rules.

No. B9 primarily regulates priority between drivers at intersections. Drivers must still give way to pedestrians at crossings and when turning where Belgian rules require it.

Yes, where the cyclist continues lawfully along another part of the same public road or uses a bike path you cross. The priority-road sign does not remove these turning and crossing obligations.

No. The applicable regional, built-up-area, zonal, posted and vehicle-specific speed limits remain in force.

B9 does not itself authorise or prohibit overtaking. Drivers must respect the ordinary overtaking rules, road markings, visibility and any local prohibition signs.

No, not on the carriageway. Parking on the carriageway of a B9 priority road outside a built-up area is prohibited.

The B9-specific rule prohibits parking on the carriageway, not every brief stop. General stopping prohibitions still apply wherever stopping would be dangerous, obstructive or otherwise prohibited.

B9 alone does not create a general parking prohibition inside a built-up area. Drivers must follow the ordinary parking rules, signs and road markings.

No. A driver entering from a driveway, property or parking place is performing a manoeuvre and must give way to other road users.

No. Priority does not allow you to enter an intersection when congestion would probably force you to stop and obstruct it.

Traffic sign B11 indicates the end of the priority road.

Traffic sign B13 announces that B11 is ahead and displays the approximate distance to the end of the priority road.

At the intersection where the priority road loses its status, the applicable rule must be indicated by B1, B5 or B17. Drivers must follow that sign rather than assume they still have priority.

Belgian warning signs A7a, A7b and A7c indicate a narrowing of the carriageway.

Belgium’s new Code of the Public Road takes effect on 1 June 2027. The warning signs for a road narrowing keep their existing numbers: traffic sign A7a warns that the carriageway narrows on both sides, traffic sign A7b indicates a narrowing on the left, and traffic sign A7c indicates a narrowing on the right. Their basic meaning therefore remains unchanged under the new Road Code.

Traffic sign A7a warns that the carriageway narrows from both sides.

Traffic sign A7b warns that the carriageway narrows on the left side in the direction of travel.

Traffic sign A7c warns that the carriageway narrows on the right side in the direction of travel.

No. A7a, A7b and A7c are warning signs. They do not indicate which direction has priority through the narrow section.

No. Drivers must respect the applicable speed limit and reduce their speed further when necessary for the width, visibility and traffic conditions.

In Brussels and Flanders, warning signs are normally placed approximately 150 metres before the danger. A supplementary panel indicates another approximate distance when necessary.

Traffic sign B19 requires drivers to give way to drivers approaching from the opposite direction.

Traffic sign B21 indicates that you have priority over drivers approaching from the opposite direction.

Yes. B19 is placed for one direction and B21 for the opposite direction. Under the current placement rules, they may be used where two cars cannot pass and the entire narrow section is visible from one end to the other.

No. You must slow down and give way when an oncoming driver is approaching. You may continue cautiously when the passage is free and no priority traffic will be hindered.

You should not enter when a driver with priority is approaching closely enough to be hindered. The B19 obligation does not disappear merely because you reach or enter the narrow section first.

No. Even with priority, the driver must approach cautiously and avoid entering when another vehicle is already in the passage or when continuing would cause an accident.

A driver whose passage is obstructed by an obstacle or another road user must slow down and, when necessary, stop to allow approaching road users to pass.

There is no automatic priority solely because one driver reaches the narrowing first. Both drivers must approach cautiously and avoid entering when they cannot pass one another safely.

Yes, when the movement requires a lateral displacement. Signal in time, check for following and approaching traffic and stop signalling when the movement is completed.

When traffic is flowing normally, changing into the adjacent lane is a manoeuvre and you must give way to its users. During strongly slowed traffic, the Belgian zipper-merging rule applies.

During strongly slowed traffic, drivers in the ending or blocked lane must merge only immediately before the narrowing. Drivers in the continuing lane must alternately allow one merging driver to enter.

Drivers in the continuing lane first allow one vehicle from the right-hand lane to merge and then one vehicle from the left-hand lane.

Under the current Highway Code, zipper merging is not legally classified as a manoeuvre, but drivers should use their indicators in time to make their intention clear and merge predictably.

An A7 sign does not itself prohibit overtaking. Overtaking is permitted only when sufficient width and visibility are available and no other prohibition, marking or safety rule prevents it.

No. Drivers must maintain at least one metre inside a built-up area and 1.5 metres outside a built-up area when passing a cyclist. When this is impossible, they must wait.

Drivers passing an obstruction around which pedestrians must enter the carriageway must leave at least one metre of free space. If this is impossible while a pedestrian is present, the driver may pass only at walking pace.

The A7 sign does not create an automatic prohibition, but stopping or parking is prohibited where it would clearly create danger or unnecessarily obstruct other road users.

Parking is prohibited when it would leave less than three metres of free passage on the carriageway.

On a two-way carriageway, parking opposite another stationary or parked vehicle is prohibited when this would make it difficult for two other vehicles to pass one another.

Under the current placement rules, A7 signs may be used for dangerous carriageway narrowings of at least one metre. A lane-sized narrowing must normally be signposted, except in residential areas and Zone 30 areas.

Yes. The Code of the Public Road taking effect on 1 June 2027 retains A7a, A7b and A7c for carriageway narrowing and B19 and B21 for priority at a narrow passage. It also retains zipper merging.

Traffic sign B21 indicates that drivers have priority over drivers approaching from the opposite direction through a narrow passage.

B21 is a rectangular blue sign showing a large white arrow in your direction and a smaller red arrow representing oncoming traffic.

Oncoming drivers normally face traffic sign B19, which requires them to give way to drivers approaching from the opposite direction.

B19 means that drivers must give way to oncoming drivers through the narrow passage.

Yes. When B19 is placed at one end of the passage, B21 is placed for traffic approaching from the other direction.

Under the current placement rules, they may be used where two cars cannot pass one another and drivers can see the entire narrow passage from one end to the other.

No. The road remains open in both directions. B21 determines which direction has priority when opposing vehicles cannot pass simultaneously.

No. You may continue when the passage is clear, but you must approach cautiously and stop when necessary to avoid danger.

You should not force your way into the passage. Slow down or stop and allow the occupied passage to clear, even though B21 normally gives your direction priority.

No. Priority does not justify creating a dangerous situation. Drivers must cooperate when another vehicle is already committed to the passage.

The driver facing B21 may normally proceed first. The driver facing B19 must give way.

No. Priority is determined by B19 and B21 rather than simply by which vehicle arrives first.

Yes. Cyclists are drivers under Belgian traffic law and are included in the priority arrangement unless another traffic control provides otherwise.

Yes. Drivers must maintain at least one metre inside a built-up area and 1.5 metres outside a built-up area. If that distance cannot be maintained in the narrow passage, the driver must wait.

Large vehicles may require the full available width. Reduce speed and wait outside the passage when necessary, even when you have priority.

No. The applicable regional, zonal or posted speed limit remains in force. Drivers must nevertheless adapt their speed to the limited width and visibility.

No. It applies only against traffic approaching from the opposite direction through the narrow passage. Intersection priority is determined separately.

B21 does not itself prohibit overtaking, but overtaking is unsafe when the available width or visibility is insufficient. Other signs or road markings may also prohibit it.

B21 creates no separate parking rule, but stopping or parking is prohibited when it would create danger, obstruct traffic or leave insufficient free passage.

Belgian parking rules require at least three metres of free carriageway to remain available.

Follow the active traffic lights. They control the alternating traffic movement and take precedence over the fixed B19 and B21 arrangement at that location.

Follow the instructions of an authorised person. Those instructions take precedence over traffic signs and ordinary traffic rules.

Yes. The Code of the Public Road taking effect on 1 June 2027 retains B21 for priority over oncoming drivers and B19 for the direction that must give way.

Traffic sign B19 requires drivers to give way to drivers approaching from the opposite direction through a narrow passage.

Drivers approaching from the other direction normally see traffic sign B21, which gives them priority over oncoming traffic.

Yes. When B19 is installed for one direction, B21 is installed for traffic approaching from the opposite direction.

Under the current placement rules, they may be used when two cars cannot pass one another and the entire narrow passage is visible from one end to the other.

No. Traffic may continue in both directions, but the direction facing B19 must allow opposing traffic to pass first.

No. You must slow down and stop when necessary to give way. You may continue cautiously when the passage is clear and no oncoming driver with priority will be hindered.

Wait before entering the narrow passage and leave sufficient space for oncoming vehicles to exit safely.

You may enter only when you can clear it without forcing an oncoming driver to slow down, stop, reverse or alter course.

No. The sign determines priority. You must not enter when a driver facing B21 is approaching closely enough to be hindered.

You must wait and allow it to leave the passage. Do not enter and block its route.

Avoid making the situation more dangerous. Stop or leave the passage when possible and cooperate with the other driver, but remember that the B19 obligation applied before you entered.

Priority does not permit either driver to cause an accident. However, the driver facing B19 must normally avoid entering while priority traffic is approaching.

Yes. Cyclists are drivers under Belgian traffic law and must give way when B19 applies to their direction of travel.

Yes. If the passage is too narrow to pass while maintaining the required lateral distance, wait until the cyclist has cleared it.

Drivers must leave at least one metre inside a built-up area and 1.5 metres outside a built-up area. When this is impossible, they must not pass.

Wait before the narrowing when necessary. Large vehicles may require the entire passage and additional room to manoeuvre.

No. The applicable regional, zonal, posted and vehicle-specific speed limits remain in force. You must still approach at a speed that allows you to stop safely.

No. It regulates priority only between opposing drivers at the narrow passage. Intersection priority is governed by other signs and rules.

B19 does not itself prohibit overtaking, but the manoeuvre is not permitted when the width, visibility or presence of oncoming traffic makes it unsafe.

B19 creates no separate stopping or parking rule, but a vehicle may not create danger, obstruct opposing traffic or leave insufficient free passage.

At least three metres of free carriageway must remain available. Parking is prohibited when this minimum passage cannot be maintained.

Even without B19, a driver whose passage is obstructed must slow down and, when necessary, stop to allow oncoming road users to pass.

Follow the active traffic lights controlling the alternating traffic flow. Traffic-light signals take precedence over the fixed priority signs at that location.

Follow the instructions of the authorised person. Those instructions take precedence over traffic lights, signs, markings and ordinary traffic rules.

Yes. The Code of the Public Road taking effect on 1 June 2027 retains B19 for the direction that must give way and B21 for the direction with priority. The arrow design is adjusted for greater clarity and international harmonisation.

Traffic sign F49 indicates the location of a pedestrian crossing, while warning sign A21 warns drivers that they are approaching a pedestrian crossing.

A Belgian pedestrian crossing is marked by white rectangles placed parallel to the centre line of the carriageway. It is commonly called a zebra crossing.

Warning sign A21 warns drivers that they are approaching a pedestrian crossing.

Yes. Drivers must give way to pedestrians who are on the crossing or are about to enter it.

Drivers must approach at a moderate speed and be prepared to stop for pedestrians.

You must give way when the pedestrian is clearly about to enter the crossing. Observe the pedestrian’s position and apparent intention and be prepared to stop.

No. At a crossing without traffic lights or an authorised controller, pedestrians may enter only cautiously and while taking approaching vehicles into account.

Stop before the pedestrian crossing and leave it completely clear. Where traffic lights provide a stop line, stop before that line when the signal requires it.

No. You may not enter a pedestrian crossing when congestion is likely to force you to stop on it.

Drivers and pedestrians must follow the applicable signals. Even when vehicle traffic receives a green light, drivers must allow pedestrians who entered lawfully to finish crossing at a normal pace.

Stop before the stop line. When the crossing is positioned before or at the signal, you must not stop on the pedestrian crossing.

No. Where two-colour pedestrian lights are installed, pedestrians may not enter the carriageway while their signal prohibits crossing.

Yes. When a pedestrian crossing is located within approximately 20 metres, pedestrians must use it.

They must cross approximately perpendicular to the centre line, proceed cautiously and avoid lingering or stopping unnecessarily on the carriageway.

Left-side overtaking of certain vehicles is prohibited when the vehicle being overtaken stops for or approaches an uncontrolled pedestrian or cycle crossing.

The stopped or slowing vehicle may conceal a pedestrian. Passing it could place the overtaking vehicle directly in the pedestrian’s path.

No. Both stopping and parking are prohibited on the crossing.

Stopping and parking on the carriageway are prohibited within five metres before the crossing.

The crossing-specific five-metre rule applies before the crossing, not automatically after it. Other parking restrictions may still prohibit stopping or parking after the crossing.

A cyclist may cross where this is otherwise permitted, but a cyclist who remains on the bicycle is a driver and does not receive pedestrian priority merely because of the zebra crossing.

A person walking beside a bicycle is treated as a pedestrian and benefits from the pedestrian-crossing rules.

No. A cycle crossing is indicated separately. Drivers and cyclists must follow the rules and markings applying to that crossing.

Unless traffic lights permit crossing, pedestrians may not enter a pedestrian crossing over tram tracks or a reserved tram site when a tram is approaching.

Yes. Drivers changing direction must give way to pedestrians crossing the road they are entering, in addition to respecting any marked pedestrian crossing.

Yes. Instructions from an authorised person take precedence over traffic lights, traffic signs, road markings and ordinary rules.

Yes. Drivers must follow the instructions given by authorised supervisors protecting groups of children, school pupils, older people or persons with disabilities.

Yes. Belgian drivers must be especially careful around children, older people and persons with disabilities and must slow down or stop when necessary.

No. The crossing does not create a numerical speed limit, but drivers must approach an uncontrolled crossing at moderate speed and remain able to stop.

From 1 June 2027, the pedestrian-crossing indication sign will be numbered F48 instead of F49. The white rectangular crossing markings and the duty to give way to pedestrians on or about to enter the crossing remain.