Panneaux de signalisationBruxelles

A Belgian square, or plein, is an open space where one public road enters or several public roads meet and where the layout allows traffic and other activities to be organised together.

Yes. The Road Code expressly states that a square is a public road distinct from the roads that lead into it.

No. An intersection is the place where two or more public roads meet, while a square is legally a separate public road with an open spatial character.

Yes. The square has its own legal identity as a public road and is distinct from the public roads that enter or meet it.

Yes, where the traffic arrangement allows it. Traffic signs, road markings, pedestrian-zone rules or other restrictions may nevertheless limit or prohibit motor-vehicle access.

Yes. A square may be included within a pedestrian zone. In that case the special pedestrian-zone access, speed and priority rules apply.

Only when the pedestrian-zone signs permit them. Where cycling is authorised, cyclists must travel at walking speed, give priority to pedestrians and stop if necessary.

Yes, where specifically permitted. Drivers must respect the parking spaces, signs, markings and any zonal parking rules applying within the square.

No. The fact that a road user is travelling across a square does not itself create priority. Traffic lights, signs, markings and the applicable Belgian priority rules determine who must give way.

No. The applicable speed depends on the traffic signs and the zone in which the square is located, such as a Zone 30, pedestrian zone, woonerf or other regulated area.

Yes. Squares can contain tram tracks and other public-transport infrastructure. Road users must respect the special priority rules applying to rail vehicles.

Yes. Authorities may temporarily restrict or close traffic because of markets, public events, roadworks, emergencies or other traffic-management needs.

Yes, the wording will be simplified. From 1 June 2027, the new Code defines a square as an open space where one or more public roads lead into it and states that the square is a public road distinct from those roads.

A Belgian path, or pad, is a narrow public road that allows only pedestrians and vehicles requiring no more width than the space normally needed by pedestrians.

Yes. A path is expressly defined as a type of public road, even though it is too narrow for ordinary vehicle traffic in general.

No. A path is not necessarily reserved exclusively for pedestrians. The legal definition also permits sufficiently narrow vehicles, subject to any applicable traffic signs or restrictions.

No. A cycle path is a specifically designated part of the public road reserved for the categories indicated by the cycle-path rules. A path is a separate type of public road.

Yes, where no sign or other rule prohibits them and the vehicle satisfies the characteristics of traffic permitted on the path. The path itself is not automatically a compulsory cycle facility.

Normally no. A path only allows vehicles that require no more width than the space needed by pedestrians, so an ordinary passenger car does not fit the legal characteristics of permitted traffic.

No. The basic legal definition is based on the narrow character of the public road and the amount of width the vehicle requires. Traffic signs can impose additional restrictions on particular vehicle categories.

A path is narrow and permits only pedestrians and very narrow vehicles. An earth road is wider than a path but is not arranged for vehicle traffic in general.

No. An earth road keeps its legal character even if only the part where it joins another public road has the appearance of a normal roadway.

A driver coming from a path onto a public road with a roadway must give way to every driver travelling on the road or roadway being entered.

No. The special rule for drivers coming from a path overrides the ordinary priority-from-the-right rule when they enter a public road with a roadway. They must give way to traffic on that road.

Yes. Although the legal definition determines which traffic can physically and legally use a path in principle, traffic signs can impose additional access prohibitions or reservations.

Yes. The Code of the Public Road scheduled to apply from 1 June 2027 retains essentially the same definition: a narrow public road allowing pedestrians and vehicles that require no more width than the space required by pedestrians.

Particulates are tiny airborne particles produced or disturbed by road traffic. Sources include vehicle exhaust, brakes, tyres and road-surface wear.

PM10 consists of particles with a diameter of up to approximately 10 micrometres, while PM2.5 consists of finer particles with a diameter of up to approximately 2.5 micrometres.

Yes. Diesel combustion can produce soot and other fine particles. Modern diesel vehicles use emission-control equipment such as a diesel particulate filter to greatly reduce these exhaust emissions.

A diesel particulate filter, or DPF, is an exhaust-treatment device that captures particulate matter produced by a diesel engine instead of allowing much of it to leave through the exhaust.

Yes. Belgium introduced a particle-number measurement during technical inspection for applicable modern diesel vehicles to check whether the particulate filter is functioning correctly.

The particle-number test was introduced on 1 July 2022 for the applicable diesel vehicles and is used during technical inspections in the Belgian regions.

Yes. The purpose of the particle-number test is to identify vehicles with a defective, removed or manipulated particulate filter by measuring the number of particles emitted.

A vehicle's required emission-control equipment must remain compliant. Removing or manipulating the particulate filter can be detected during the technical inspection particle-number test and can cause the vehicle to fail the applicable emissions check.

No. Retrofitting a particulate filter does not by itself change the vehicle's official Euro emission standard. For example, Brussels LEZ rules continue to use the vehicle's official Euro classification.

Fully electric vehicles do not produce combustion-engine exhaust particles, but their tyres, brakes and interaction with the road surface can still generate particulate matter.

Belgium is subject to the European vehicle-emission framework. The Euro 7 rules expand vehicle-emission requirements to include non-exhaust sources such as brake-particle emissions and tyre abrasion.

Yes, indirectly. Low-emission zones are intended to reduce harmful vehicle pollution, but access is generally determined using characteristics such as the vehicle category, fuel type and Euro standard rather than a roadside measurement of the individual vehicle's particulate emissions.

Yes. Road traffic contributes to several air pollutants, particularly nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, and its influence can be especially important near busy roads and in densely populated areas.

Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is strongly associated with road traffic. The highest concentrations in Flanders are particularly linked to heavily trafficked roads.

Yes. Vehicles can contribute particulate matter through exhaust emissions as well as brake wear, tyre wear, road wear and resuspended road dust.

Yes. Modern emission-control systems have greatly reduced pollutants from newer vehicles, but diesel traffic can still contribute to nitrogen-oxide and particulate emissions. The actual emissions depend on the vehicle technology, condition and driving circumstances.

Air quality is monitored through regional measurement networks, with Belgian data coordinated and reported through IRCEL-CELINE. Pollutants monitored include particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide and ozone.

Yes. Belgian and regional air-quality services provide current measurements, maps and air-quality indices so that people can check conditions in their area.

Belgium uses the BelAQI air-quality index to communicate short-term air quality based on concentrations of important pollutants such as particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide and ozone.

The Brussels Low Emission Zone restricts the most polluting vehicles in order to reduce traffic-related air pollution and improve public health.

Not normally. Vehicle access is generally determined using characteristics such as the vehicle category, fuel type and Euro emission standard rather than measuring the emissions of each vehicle when it enters the zone.

No. Fully electric cars have no combustion-engine exhaust emissions while driving, but tyres, road wear and braking can still produce particulate matter.

Yes. Traffic-related pollution can vary considerably over short distances. Concentrations can be higher beside busy roads than in quieter streets or urban-background locations.

Drivers can reduce unnecessary emissions by maintaining their vehicle correctly, avoiding unnecessary idling, driving smoothly and using lower-emission transport alternatives where practical. Public transport, cycling and walking can also reduce the amount of motor traffic contributing to urban air pollution.

Rush hour refers to periods of particularly heavy traffic, usually associated with morning and evening commuting on working days.

No. There is no single nationwide period legally defined as rush hour. The timing and severity of peak traffic depend on the road, region, day and actual traffic conditions.

No. Ordinary traffic rules continue to apply during congestion. Drivers must continue to respect speed limits, lane rules, traffic lights, signs, following distances and other requirements.

Yes. Dynamic traffic-management systems can display speed limits according to traffic conditions. Drivers must respect the maximum speed indicated by the applicable signs or lane-control signals.

A spitsstrook is an additional motorway lane that can be opened during busy periods to provide extra road capacity. On Flemish motorways it is normally situated on the right-hand side where the emergency lane would otherwise be.

The lane may be used when the dynamic lane-control signal above it displays a green arrow or an applicable maximum speed.

A red cross means that the lane is closed and ordinary traffic may not use it. Drivers must leave or avoid the lane as required.

No. When the dynamic signalling above a Belgian rush-hour lane is completely extinguished, the rush-hour lane is considered closed and may not be used.

No. The permitted speed can be controlled dynamically. Drivers must follow the speed displayed above the lane and any other applicable speed restriction.

Yes. As soon as congestion develops on a carriageway with at least two lanes in the same direction, drivers must form an emergency corridor between the leftmost lane and the lane immediately to its right.

No. Being temporarily stationary because of congestion does not allow the driver to use, hold or manipulate a handheld electronic device with a screen. The applicable Belgian rules concerning mobile devices continue to apply in traffic jams.

Current traffic information and expected journey times are available through the regional traffic-information services. Checking conditions before departure can help drivers anticipate congestion and choose an appropriate route or departure time.

The Belgian Road Code is the set of rules governing road traffic and the use of public roads. The principal general traffic regulation currently in force is the Royal Decree of 1 December 1975.

Yes. A new Code of the Public Road has been adopted, but it does not enter into force until 1 June 2027. Until then, the current Road Code remains applicable.

No. From 1 June 2027, the current 1975 regulation is scheduled to be replaced by four complementary regulations: a federal Code of the Public Road together with separate road regulations for Brussels, Flanders and Wallonia.

No. The current Belgian Road Code does not define a street gutter as a separate type of traffic lane. Its primary function is drainage along the edge of the road.

No. The requirement to ride as close as possible to the right-hand edge of the carriageway does not mean that cyclists must ride in the gutter.

Yes. Cyclists may keep sufficient distance from the edge when necessary to avoid hazards such as drains, debris or an uneven road surface, while still following the applicable rules on road position.

A cargo bike is a bicycle intended to carry goods, children or larger loads. Common Belgian cargo-bike designs include two-wheel box bikes, three-wheel cargo bikes and longtails.

No. The term describes the bicycle's purpose and design. Its legal classification depends on characteristics such as the number of wheels, width and type of electrical assistance.

Yes. A cargo bike with pedal assistance of no more than 250 W that stops assisting by 25 km/h remains classified as an ordinary cycle.

Yes, within the motorised-cycle category. A motorised cycle may have an electric motor with a nominal continuous maximum power of up to 1 kW and assistance ending by 25 km/h. Under the current rules, its rider follows the traffic rules for cyclists.

No. An ordinary bicycle or electric bicycle within the 250 W and 25 km/h limits does not require a driving licence. A motorised cycle up to 1 kW and 25 km/h also currently requires no driving licence.

No. Ordinary bicycles, electric bicycles within the 250 W and 25 km/h limits and motorised cycles up to 1 kW and 25 km/h do not require registration or a registration plate.

Yes, when its legal classification and width permit it. Cargo bicycles treated as bicycles follow the normal rules concerning compulsory cycle paths.

A three- or four-wheel cycle is treated as a bicycle for the applicable traffic rules only when it is no more than 1 metre wide. Wider cycles may not use the ordinary bicycle facilities that are reserved for cyclists.

Under the current technical rules, the maximum width of a two-wheel bicycle is 0.75 metres. Different dimensional rules apply to three- and four-wheel cycles.

Yes, when the bicycle is designed and equipped for them. A bicycle may not carry more people than the number for which its seating positions are designed.

Children must be carried using the appropriate seating arrangement. Belgian federal guidance also requires children's feet to be supported when they are transported on a bicycle or motorised cycle.

Yes. A trailer attached to a bicycle or motorised cycle may carry no more than two passengers and must have secure seats providing adequate protection for their hands, feet and backs.

A bicycle trailer may normally have a total mass of no more than 80 kg, including its load and passengers. A heavier trailer may be used when it has a braking system that operates automatically when the cyclist brakes.

The load on a two-wheel bicycle may project by up to 30 cm on each side, but the total loaded width may not exceed 1 metre. The load must also be positioned and secured safely.

No. There is currently no general helmet requirement for ordinary bicycle or ordinary electric-bicycle riders, although wearing a suitable bicycle helmet is recommended.

Motorists passing a cyclist must leave at least 1 metre inside a built-up area and at least 1.5 metres outside a built-up area. A driver should leave even more space where necessary because of the cargo bike's width, load or road conditions.

A Belgian forestry vehicle can include a land- or forestry tractor, its trailer or other machinery used for forestry operations. The exact legal classification depends on the design and use of the vehicle.

A land- or forestry tractor is a powered wheeled or tracked vehicle with at least two axles and a design speed of at least 6 km/h, primarily designed for traction and for pulling, pushing, carrying or operating equipment or trailers used in agriculture or forestry.

Category G covers land- and forestry tractors and their trailers, as well as certain vehicles registered as agricultural equipment, agricultural motors or mowing machines.

No. Category G applies specifically to tractor-type vehicles when they are used for agricultural or forestry operations. Other self-propelled forestry machinery can fall under category B, C1 or C according to its maximum authorised mass.

If the same tractor is used for an activity that is not connected with agricultural or forestry operations, category G no longer applies merely because the vehicle is technically a forestry tractor. The driving-licence category appropriate to the vehicle's maximum authorised mass must then be considered.

The theory examination may be taken from 15 years and 9 months and the practical examination from 16 years. Until the age of 18, code 205 limits the holder to a vehicle combination with a maximum authorised mass of no more than 20 tonnes.

Yes, within specified mass limits. Holders of licences such as B, BE, C1, C1E, C or CE may drive certain category G vehicles corresponding to the masses their licence permits. A valid CE licence also gives entitlement to category G.

Yes, when it belongs to a category requiring registration for use on public roads. The DIV has a specific registration procedure for tractors and agricultural or forestry vehicles.

No. The registration plate beginning with G is a special fiscal plate for qualifying agricultural and forestry vehicles authorised to use fully tax-exempt red diesel. It is not automatically issued to every forestry vehicle.

No. Vehicles legally classified as agricultural vehicles are prohibited from Belgian motorways.

No. Agricultural vehicles are also specifically excluded from roads designated as autowegen.

Yes, when they fall within the agricultural-vehicle category indicated by the signs. On roads marked F99c as reserved for the indicated agricultural vehicles and other permitted users, the maximum speed is 30 km/h and motorised traffic must take particular care around pedestrians, cyclists and riders.

There is no single Belgian legal category called construction vehicle. Depending on its design and purpose, a construction vehicle may be classified as a goods vehicle, slow vehicle, vehicle of special construction, mobile crane or another vehicle category.

A vehicle of special construction is a vehicle primarily designed or permanently converted to function as a tool, with almost no payload compared with its tare weight. The category includes certain self-propelled industrial machines.

A Belgian vehicle for slow transport is a motor vehicle whose construction and origin limit its nominal maximum speed to 40 km/h or less.

Yes, when its legal classification and technical requirements permit road use. The vehicle must comply with the registration, technical, lighting, dimensional and other requirements applicable to its particular category.

The required licence depends on the legal classification and characteristics of the vehicle. Ordinary goods vehicles normally fall within categories B, C1 or C according to their authorised mass, while special rules exist for certain industrial vehicles of special construction.

Yes, in a specific case. A category B licence may be used to drive an industrial vehicle of special construction with a design speed of no more than 40 km/h when travelling between construction sites less than 5 km apart or when operating within a port area.

No. Orange-yellow flashing lights warn other road users of a special task, obstruction or danger but do not give the vehicle the priority rights associated with a priority vehicle using blue lights and a siren.

Orange-yellow flashing lights may be used while the vehicle is actually performing the task for which those lights are authorised or when its presence on the public road creates an obstruction or danger to traffic.

No. Motorway access is prohibited to vehicles or combinations that cannot reach 70 km/h on a level road. A construction machine limited by design to 40 km/h therefore cannot use a motorway under the ordinary rules.

Yes, but special rules may apply. If the vehicle exceeds the normal permitted dimensions or masses, it may qualify as an exceptional vehicle and require a specific permit and compliance with the route and safety conditions imposed for that journey.

The Belgian A31 warning sign warns road users that there are works ahead. Temporary signs, barriers and orange road markings may also be used to guide traffic through the work zone.

Yes, in the circumstances provided by law. A site supervisor responsible for protecting roadworks personnel may give traffic-control indications and may use the prescribed C3 stop disc to stop traffic.

A Belgian semi-trailer truck consists of a tractor and a semi-trailer coupled together. Belgian technical regulations refer to this combination as an articulated vehicle.

A semi-trailer is a towed vehicle designed to be coupled to a semi-trailer tractor or dolly and to transfer a significant static vertical load to that towing vehicle.

A tractor is a motor vehicle in category N1, N2 or N3 designed primarily to tow semi-trailers or trailers.

A heavy tractor with a semi-trailer whose maximum authorised mass exceeds 750 kg normally requires a category CE driving licence. Category C by itself normally permits only a trailer with a maximum authorised mass not exceeding 750 kg.

Generally yes. Most professional drivers using category C and CE vehicles must hold the required professional competence, indicated by Code 95, unless a specific exemption applies.

A standard articulated tractor-semi-trailer combination may generally be up to 16.5 metres long when the applicable geometric requirements concerning the semi-trailer and coupling are satisfied.

The permitted maximum mass depends on the number of axles, suspension, configuration, region and type of transport. Common articulated configurations can reach up to approximately 44 tonnes under the applicable technical rules, while different limits apply to other combinations.

For a vehicle or combination with a maximum authorised mass exceeding 3.5 tonnes, the maximum speed on a Belgian motorway is 90 km/h, unless a lower limit applies.

Under the rules currently applicable until 31 May 2027, when a motorway has three or more lanes in the same direction, vehicles and combinations exceeding 3.5 tonnes may normally use only the two rightmost lanes, except where particular lane-direction signs require otherwise.

Yes. From 1 June 2027, under the new Code of the Public Road, vehicles and combinations exceeding 3.5 tonnes may not use the leftmost lane of a motorway with three or more lanes in their direction. This replaces the current two-rightmost-lanes wording.

For vehicles and combinations used to transport goods with a maximum authorised mass exceeding 7.5 tonnes, overtaking is prohibited during precipitation on motorways, autowegen and roads with at least four lanes, subject to the specific exceptions provided by law.

Yes. Outside built-up areas, vehicles and combinations exceeding 7.5 tonnes or longer than 7 metres must normally maintain at least 50 metres from another such vehicle travelling ahead.

No. Within built-up areas, vehicles and combinations with a maximum authorised mass exceeding 7.5 tonnes may not normally remain parked on the public road for more than eight consecutive hours except in specifically designated parking places.

A Belgian trolleybus is an electrically powered autobus that obtains the energy needed for propulsion from an overhead electrical line.

No. A trolleybus is a road vehicle rather than a rail vehicle. It runs on tyres and is steered by its driver instead of being guided by railway or tram tracks.

Yes. The Belgian Road Code includes the trolleybus within the legal definition of an auto.

No. Belgian technical rules specifically state that fitting a trolleybus with an auxiliary motor that allows it to continue moving without taking electricity from the overhead line does not change its legal nature as a trolleybus.

A trolleybus used to carry passengers falls within the Belgian passenger-vehicle licensing system. Depending on its passenger capacity and characteristics, the applicable licence is normally category D1 or D.

Inside a built-up area, yes in the specified circumstances. A driver travelling in the same direction must allow a trolleybus to leave its stop when the trolleybus driver indicates the intention to move off. The approaching driver must slow down and stop if necessary.

No. The specific Belgian rule requiring following traffic to allow an autobus or trolleybus to leave its stop applies inside built-up areas.

Yes. Drivers must reduce their speed when passing a trolleybus that is stopped to allow passengers to board or leave.

If there is no refuge island, drivers travelling along the side where passengers board or leave must allow them to reach the trolleybus, pavement, pedestrian area or verge safely. Drivers must stop when necessary and may resume driving only at moderate speed.

No. Parking is prohibited within 15 metres on either side of a sign indicating a trolleybus stop.

Yes, when operating as a regular public-transport service. Belgian F17 bus lanes are reserved by default for vehicles used for regular public passenger transport.

Yes. Belgium uses special white bars, circles and triangles on a black background to control vehicles used for regular public passenger transport services, which can include trolleybuses.

A Belgian speed pedelec is a two-wheeled vehicle with pedals and an auxiliary drive primarily intended to assist pedalling, with assistance ending at a vehicle speed of no more than 45 km/h.

A speed pedelec with an electric motor may have a nominal continuous maximum power of up to 4 kW.

No. Under the Belgian traffic rules, a speed pedelec belongs to the broader legal category of mopeds, although several special rules distinguish it from ordinary class A and class B mopeds.

You must normally be at least 16 years old to ride a speed pedelec on the public road.

You need at least a category AM driving licence. A licence valid for category A1, A2, A or B also provides access to category AM.

Yes. Both the rider and passenger must wear either an approved moped helmet or an appropriate bicycle helmet that provides the additional protection required for speed-pedelec use.

The bicycle helmet must comply with the applicable approval requirements and provide protection for the temples and the back of the head. Belgian guidance specifies an EN 1078-approved helmet providing this additional protection.

Yes. A speed pedelec must be registered with the DIV and display a registration plate. Belgian speed-pedelec plates begin with S-P.

Yes. A certificate of conformity is required for a speed pedelec. It confirms the vehicle's approved technical classification, although the rider does not normally have to carry the certificate during every journey.

No. A normal speed pedelec whose motor provides pedal assistance and cannot propel the vehicle autonomously above 25 km/h is not subject to compulsory motor-vehicle liability insurance. If the motor can propel the vehicle above 25 km/h without pedalling, compulsory motor-vehicle liability insurance applies.

Where the speed limit is 50 km/h or lower, a speed-pedelec rider may generally choose between the carriageway and an applicable cycle path, provided other cycle-path users are not endangered. Where the speed limit is higher than 50 km/h, the applicable cycle path must normally be used. Supplementary signs can impose different rules.

Yes. Speed pedelecs may use sections indicated by D9 under the applicable speed-based rules. They are not permitted on a D10 pedestrian-and-cycle facility under the current rules.

No. Speed pedelecs belong to the moped category, and mopeds are prohibited on Belgian motorways and autowegen.

Yes, when the vehicle is designed to carry one. The rider must be at least 18 years old to carry a passenger. A speed pedelec may carry no more passengers than its approved seating arrangement permits.

Children younger than 3 years may not be carried. Children from 3 to under 8 years old must be carried using an appropriate child-restraint system that satisfies the applicable requirements.

No. A trailer may be attached for carrying goods where permitted, but persons may not be transported in a trailer attached to a speed pedelec.

A delivery vehicle is a vehicle being used to transport or deliver goods. It does not form one separate vehicle category: the normal rules applying to the vehicle itself, such as those for a car, light goods vehicle or truck, continue to apply.

No, when the vehicle remains stationary only for the time necessary to load or unload goods. In that situation it is legally considered stopped. Remaining longer than necessary is considered parking.

Yes, provided stopping itself is permitted. E1 prohibits parking, while genuine loading or unloading for only the necessary time is legally considered stopping rather than parking.

No. E3 prohibits both stopping and parking, so a delivery vehicle may not stop there merely to load or unload goods.

An E9 parking sign can be supplemented with the loading-and-unloading symbol to indicate that the place is reserved for loading and unloading goods.

If no goods are actually being loaded or unloaded and the vehicle remains stationary longer than necessary for that activity, it is considered parked rather than stopped. The loading space should therefore not be used simply as a waiting place.

Yes. The Belgian definition of local traffic or local access expressly includes delivery vehicles, together with residents, their visitors and several other specified categories.

Yes, when the delivery falls within the Belgian definition of local traffic. The driver must nevertheless comply with any additional restrictions or conditions applying to the road.

Yes, when the signs specifically permit vehicles that need to load or unload and subject to the restrictions shown. Other specific access possibilities also exist in limited circumstances for businesses located within the zone.

A delivery vehicle legally admitted to a pedestrian zone must travel at walking speed, leave pedestrians free passage and stop when necessary. It may not endanger or hinder pedestrians.

No. Even when a vehicle is authorised to enter a pedestrian zone for loading or unloading, parking is prohibited there.

No. Stopping and parking on a cycle path are prohibited. A delivery does not provide an exemption from this rule.

Yes. Delivery vans are subject to the Brussels LEZ when they fall within the vehicle categories covered by its rules. Since 1 January 2026, Euro 5 diesel vans no longer meet the normal access criteria, meaning affected diesel vans generally need at least Euro 6 unless a valid exemption or day pass applies.

No. Under the current Belgian Road Code, a driver may not leave the engine running in neutral unless this is necessary.

No. The Belgian Road Code specifically prohibits repeatedly accelerating an engine while it is running in neutral.

No general federal rule requires drivers to manually switch off their engine at every red traffic light. Being temporarily prevented from moving by traffic conditions is different from voluntarily leaving a vehicle stationary or parked.

You should not leave the engine running unnecessarily. The Belgian Road Code permits an engine to remain running in neutral only in a case of necessity.

You should not assume that ordinary engine warming constitutes a legal necessity. Modern vehicles should generally be operated according to the manufacturer's instructions, and unnecessary stationary engine running should be avoided.

No single federal time limit applies in the current Road Code. Instead, the rule prohibits leaving the engine running in neutral except where necessary. Regional or local rules may impose additional requirements.

Yes. In Wallonia, when a vehicle stops at a place where stopping or parking is legally permitted, the driver must normally switch off the engine immediately.

Yes. Exceptions include certain priority vehicles, military vehicles, vehicles involved in emergency or rescue work, specialised infrastructure-maintenance vehicles, vehicles with refrigeration equipment, vehicles whose engines provide electricity to specialised equipment and vehicles with a technical problem requiring the engine to remain running.

Yes, where the exception applies. Vehicles equipped with refrigeration equipment are specifically included among the exceptions to the Walloon engine-switch-off rule.

Yes, when it is necessary. A vehicle with a technical problem that requires the engine to continue running is specifically exempted from the immediate engine-switch-off requirement.

Keeping a combustion engine running unnecessarily produces air pollutants, greenhouse-gas emissions, noise and fuel consumption without moving the vehicle.

Yes. Regional and municipal environmental or police regulations can contain additional restrictions concerning stationary engines, noise or emissions, so drivers should also follow any applicable local rules.

A Belgian tow truck is a category-N motor vehicle normally intended to clear the public road by removing or towing vehicles that have been damaged in an accident or have broken down.

No. A vehicle that is used for vehicle recovery only occasionally is not legally considered a tow truck. It must be normally intended and appropriately equipped for recovery work.

Yes. A loading platform is permitted provided the tow truck has at least a fixed winch and two loading ramps, whether fixed or removable, as required by the technical regulations.

Yes. The tow truck's orange-yellow flashing lights must be used at the breakdown or recovery location and while the vehicle is being towed.

No. Outside the circumstances in which the tow truck is recovering or towing a vehicle, its orange-yellow flashing lights may not remain illuminated merely because it is a tow truck.

No. Orange-yellow flashing lights serve as a warning of a special task, obstruction or danger. They do not give the tow truck the priority rights associated with a priority vehicle using the prescribed blue lights and audible warning.

When a tow or recovery vehicle is legally travelling on the emergency lane to reach an incident on or beside a motorway or autoweg, or is using the emergency corridor, it must use one or two orange-yellow flashing lights.

Yes, but only under the applicable towing rules. A motor vehicle may normally be towed only when it can no longer move under its own power or no longer provides the necessary safety guarantees.

No. Towing with an emergency or auxiliary coupling is prohibited on Belgian motorways. Professional towing equipment specifically fitted to recovery vehicles is treated differently and is not considered such an emergency coupling.

Where emergency or auxiliary towing is legally permitted, the maximum speed is 25 km/h, and the vehicle may only be taken to the place of repair.

Yes, under specific conditions. A tow truck may tow an articulated vehicle solely to bring it to the place of repair, provided the tow truck satisfies the special technical requirements for doing so.

The required licence depends mainly on the tow truck's maximum authorised mass. A vehicle above 3.5 tonnes requires the appropriate category C-group licence: C1 covers vehicles above 3.5 tonnes up to 7.5 tonnes, while category C covers heavier vehicles.

No. Four-wheel drive by itself does not give a vehicle special priority, speed limits or road access. The ordinary rules applying to the vehicle category and road continue to apply.

No, not merely because it has four-wheel drive. The required driving-licence category depends on factors such as the vehicle's maximum authorised mass, passenger capacity and any trailer being towed.

No. Belgian drivers must always adapt their speed to the road, weather, visibility and traffic conditions. Four-wheel drive does not exempt the driver from this obligation.

No. The tyres must remain suitable and in safe condition. For ordinary cars, the main tread grooves must normally have a depth of at least 1.6 mm.

Yes, when conditions justify them. Snow chains may be fitted to tyres when there is snow or ice on the road.

No. Studded tyres are generally prohibited, although exceptional use can be authorised under specific conditions.

Not automatically. Four-wheel drive mainly improves the ability to transmit driving force to the road. Braking remains dependent on tyre grip, road conditions, vehicle speed and the braking system.

Yes, if the vehicle itself satisfies the motorway access requirements. Having four-wheel drive neither grants nor removes motorway access.

No. Four-wheel drive does not override access prohibitions, traffic signs or restrictions. A 4x4 must respect the same road-access signs that apply to its vehicle category.

Yes, if the vehicle is approved for towing. The trailer and combination must remain within the maximum towing and combination masses authorised for the vehicle, and the driver must hold the appropriate licence.

Yes, for certain vehicles. Belgian technical regulations provide a specific towing-mass provision for certain four-wheel-drive passenger cars and light vehicles with a chassis separate from the body when towing a trailer fitted with an overrun braking system. The vehicle's officially approved towing mass must still be respected.

No. Four-wheel drive is a technical characteristic of the vehicle and does not provide permission to enter roads, paths, forests or other areas where motor-vehicle access is prohibited or restricted.

The Belgian C3 sign, a white circular sign with a red border, means access prohibited in both directions for every driver. It closes the road to drivers entering from either end unless an exception applies.

No. The C1 no-entry sign prohibits drivers from entering in one particular direction. The C3 sign prohibits access in both directions.

Yes. Drivers of cars, motorcycles and other vehicles may not pass a C3 sign unless a supplementary sign or another legal exception permits them to do so.

Yes, unless an exception is indicated. Cyclists are drivers and bicycles are vehicles under the Belgian Road Code. A supplementary bicycle panel can expressly exempt cyclists from the C3 prohibition.

Yes. The appropriate supplementary panels can exempt cyclists and specified categories of moped riders or speed-pedelec riders from the C3 prohibition.

Yes, unless another rule or sign prohibits them. C3 applies to drivers rather than pedestrians. A separate prohibition, such as the applicable pedestrian-access sign, is required where pedestrians are also prohibited.

Normally yes, unless pedestrians are also prohibited. Under Belgian rules, a person walking a bicycle by hand is treated as a pedestrian rather than as a cyclist driving a vehicle.

Yes. The Belgian definition of a driver also includes persons who lead or control riding, draught or pack animals or livestock. They are therefore covered by a C3 prohibition unless an exception applies.

A C3 sign may be supplemented with 'Except local traffic'. Belgian law defines local traffic to include vehicles of residents and their visitors, including delivery vehicles, regular public transport, certain maintenance and supervision vehicles, priority vehicles, cyclists and horse riders.

No. The exception is intended for traffic falling within the Belgian definition of local traffic. Ordinary through traffic that has no qualifying local purpose may not use the restricted road merely as a shortcut.

Yes. Instead of allowing all local traffic, a supplementary panel may specify a more restricted exception, such as access for a particular activity or category of road user.

No. C3 specifically means that access is prohibited in both directions. Where entry is prohibited only from one direction, Belgium uses the C1 no-entry sign instead.

A Belgian bicycle is a two-wheeled cycle propelled by pedals or hand cranks. Three- and four-wheeled cycles up to 1 metre wide are generally treated in the same way for the applicable cycling rules.

Yes. An electrically assisted bicycle remains classified as a cycle when the auxiliary motor has a maximum continuous rated power of no more than 250 W, assists only while pedalling and stops providing assistance by 25 km/h.

Yes. A cyclist riding a bicycle is considered a driver and must follow the traffic rules applying to drivers as well as the specific rules for cyclists.

Yes, when an applicable and usable compulsory cycle path is provided. Cycle paths may be identified by the prescribed road markings or signs such as D7 or D9.

A cyclist must normally ride on the right-hand side of the carriageway. Certain suitable verges and, outside built-up areas, other specified parts of the public road may also be used under the applicable conditions.

Yes, if they are younger than 10 years old. They may ride on pavements and raised verges provided they do not endanger other road users.

No. There is currently no general helmet requirement for ordinary cyclists, although wearing an approved bicycle helmet is strongly recommended.

An ordinary bicycle must have a bell audible from 20 metres, two brakes with one acting on the front wheel and one on the rear wheel, and the prescribed front, rear, pedal and lateral reflectors.

Bicycle lights must be used between nightfall and dawn and whenever visibility is less than approximately 200 metres. The front light must be white or yellow and the rear light red.

Yes. Bicycle lights may be steady or flashing, but they must not dazzle other road users. They may be fitted to the bicycle or worn by the cyclist and must remain clearly visible.

Yes. Cyclists may generally ride two abreast. On the carriageway they must ride single file when an oncoming vehicle cannot pass safely, and outside built-up areas they must also move into single file when a vehicle approaches from behind.

Yes, if the bicycle has a proper passenger seat and two footrests. A passenger may not simply sit on the luggage rack and may not travel side-saddle.

Yes. A bicycle trailer may carry up to two passengers and must have secure seats that adequately protect their hands, feet and backs.

A motor vehicle passing a cyclist must leave at least 1 metre inside a built-up area and at least 1.5 metres outside a built-up area.

Yes. Once a person dismounts and walks the bicycle by hand, that person is treated as a pedestrian and follows the applicable pedestrian rules.

A motorcycle rider must wear an approved helmet, gloves, a jacket with long sleeves and long trousers or an overall, together with boots or ankle boots that protect the ankles.

Yes. The Belgian requirements concerning the helmet, gloves, long sleeves, long trousers or overall and ankle-protecting footwear apply to both motorcycle riders and passengers.

Yes. Motorcycle riders and passengers must wear an approved protective helmet, except in the limited circumstances provided for motorcycles with a passenger compartment where the legally required restraint system is being used.

No. Motorcycle riders and passengers must wear long trousers or an overall. Shorts do not satisfy this requirement.

No. Belgian law requires a jacket with long sleeves for motorcycle riders and passengers.

Yes. Both the rider and passenger of a motorcycle must wear gloves.

Motorcycle riders and passengers must wear boots or ankle boots that protect the ankles.

Yes, if the vehicle is legally classified as a motorcycle. The clothing requirement applies to motorcycles regardless of whether their design resembles a traditional motorcycle or a scooter.

Yes. Under the Road Code currently in force, motorcycles travelling on the public road must continuously use their dipped headlight and red rear light, including during daytime conditions when ordinary vehicle lighting would not otherwise be required.

The rider must adjust the rear-view mirrors so that traffic behind and to the left can be observed, including another vehicle beginning to overtake.

Yes. Motorcycle passengers must keep their feet on the footrests while travelling.

No general rule requires a motorcyclist to wear a reflective vest during ordinary riding. However, if a motorcycle breaks down on a motorway or autoweg at a place where stopping or parking is prohibited, the driver must wear a retro-reflective safety vest as soon as they leave the vehicle.

No. The current Belgian Road Code generally uses the broader term rail vehicle. A railcar operating on railway tracks falls within this broader concept for road-traffic interactions.

Yes. Road users must give way to rail vehicles and must clear the tracks as quickly as possible when necessary.

Do not enter the crossing. At a crossing without barriers or functioning traffic lights, you may proceed only after making sure that no rail vehicle is approaching. You must also stop when barriers are moving or closed, red flashing lights are operating or the audible warning signal is sounding.

Yes. Every road user must give way to rail vehicles and must clear the tracks as quickly as possible to allow them to pass.

Yes. The special priority rule for rail vehicles is not the ordinary priority-from-the-right rule. Road users must give way to the tram regardless of whether it approaches from the left or right, subject to any applicable traffic-control signals.

This depends on how the tracks are incorporated into the public road. Where tracks form part of an ordinary carriageway, other traffic may use the road as permitted. A reserved public-transport track or separate track area may only be used in the circumstances permitted by Belgian rules and signs.

No. Ordinary traffic on tracks laid outside the carriageway is prohibited.

The Belgian A49 warning sign indicates that the public road is crossed by one or more tracks that are laid in the carriageway.

No. Parking is prohibited anywhere that the parked vehicle would obstruct the passage of a rail vehicle.

No. Parking is prohibited within 15 metres on either side of a sign indicating a tram, bus or trolleybus stop.

A rail vehicle travelling along the carriageway is normally overtaken on the right, whether it is moving or stopped for passengers to board or leave.

Yes, in limited circumstances. This is permitted when passing on the right is impossible because of insufficient space or a fixed obstruction, provided oncoming road users are not hindered or endangered. It may also be permitted on a one-way carriageway when traffic conditions justify it.

Drivers must reduce their speed. Where there is no refuge island and passengers must cross the roadway to reach or leave the tram, drivers on that side must stop when necessary so passengers can move safely.

Normally no. Unless traffic lights specifically permit them to cross, pedestrians may not enter a pedestrian crossing that crosses tram tracks or a reserved tram track when a tram is approaching.

Cyclists must remember that the tram has priority and should clear the tracks as soon as this can be done safely when a tram needs to pass. Extra care is also needed because bicycle wheels can be affected by the rail grooves.

Belgian public transport mainly includes trains, buses, trams and metro services. Different operators provide services depending on the transport mode and region.

NMBS/SNCB operates the national passenger railway network. De Lijn provides bus and tram services mainly in Flanders, TEC provides services in Wallonia and STIB/MIVB operates metro, tram and bus services in the Brussels-Capital Region.

Yes. Every road user must give way to rail vehicles such as trams and must clear the tracks as quickly as possible when necessary.

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

No. The specific Belgian rule requiring following traffic to allow a bus to leave its stop applies within built-up areas.

An F17 bus lane is reserved by default for vehicles used for regular public passenger transport. Other road users may use it only where Belgian rules permit this or where the appropriate symbol or indication is displayed.

Yes, when the bicycle symbol is indicated on the F17 sign or the applicable supplementary sign. Without such authorisation, the presence of a bus lane does not automatically permit cyclists to use it.

Yes. Belgium uses special white traffic signals on a black background to control vehicles used for regular public passenger transport, including tram and other authorised public-transport movements.

You must moderate your speed when passing a bus, coach, trolleybus, minibus or rail vehicle that is stopped so passengers can get in or out.

Where there is no refuge island, a driver travelling along the side where passengers are boarding or leaving must allow them to reach the vehicle, pavement or verge safely. The driver must stop if necessary and may continue only at moderate speed.

No. Parking is prohibited within 15 metres on either side of a sign indicating a bus, trolleybus or tram stop.

Yes, in certain specific situations. Other vehicles may enter or cross a bus lane when necessary to avoid an obstruction, turn near an intersection, cross it at an intersection or enter or leave adjoining property or a parking place, subject to the applicable rules.

Yes. A towable caravan is subject to the Belgian rules for trailers because it is a vehicle intended to be moved by another vehicle.

The Belgian F73 information sign indicates a caravan site.

It depends on the caravan's and towing vehicle's maximum authorised masses. Category B is sufficient within the applicable limits; heavier combinations may require B with code 96 or category BE.

A trailer is legally defined as any vehicle intended to be moved by another vehicle.

Yes, within the applicable weight limits. A category B licence allows a trailer with a maximum authorised mass of up to 750 kg. A trailer over 750 kg is also permitted with category B when the combined maximum authorised mass of the towing vehicle and trailer does not exceed 3500 kg.

If the trailer exceeds 750 kg and the combination exceeds 3500 kg, category B with code 96 permits a combination up to 4250 kg. For a category B towing vehicle with a heavier combination, a BE licence may be required according to the applicable weight limits.