Traffic signsFlanders
Traffic rules
Flanders
51. No parking
No parking indicates that vehicles may not be left parked at the location or along the section of road covered by the restriction. Depending on local law, a driver may still be allowed to stop briefly to pick up or drop off passengers or to load or unload goods, provided stopping itself is not prohibited.
A no-parking restriction may apply continuously or only during specified times, days, vehicle categories or sections of road. Its exact extent and exceptions are determined by the traffic sign, supplementary panels, road markings and local traffic regulations.
Wikimedia.org • Aktron • CC BY
Which sign means no parking in Belgium?
The Belgian E1 sign, a blue circular sign with a red border and a single red diagonal bar, means parking prohibited. It must not be confused with the E3 sign, which prohibits both stopping and parking.
🔗 wegcode.be • Belgian Road Code, Articles 23–27ter, 70–71
Parking prohibited.
English • Traffic sign E1 • No parking.
Français • Signal routier E1 • Stationnement interdit.
Nederlands • Verkeersbord E1 • Parkeerverbod.
Parking and stopping prohibited.
English • Traffic sign E3 • No stopping or parking.
Français • Signal routier E3 • Arrêt et stationnement interdits.
Nederlands • Verkeersbord E3 • Stilstaan en parkeren verboden.
May you stop where a Belgian no-parking sign applies?
Yes, if stopping is otherwise permitted. Under Belgian law, a vehicle that remains stationary only for the time necessary for passengers to get in or out or for goods to be loaded or unloaded is considered stopped rather than parked.
May you refuel or charge a vehicle where parking is prohibited?
No, where the E1 prohibition applies. Belgian law specifically considers both refuelling and charging the battery of an electric or hybrid-electric vehicle to be parking.
🔗 wegcode.be • Belgian Road Code, Articles 23–27ter, 70–71; Articles 23–27 and 51–52
Can you wait for someone inside your car where parking is prohibited in Belgium?
Remaining inside does not make waiting lawful. Waiting beyond the time needed for actual boarding, alighting, loading or unloading counts as parking.
52. Kiss and ride
A Kiss and Ride area is a designated place where drivers may stop briefly to drop off or pick up passengers. These areas are commonly provided near schools, railway stations, airports and other busy destinations to allow passengers to enter or leave a vehicle without occupying ordinary parking spaces.
A Kiss and Ride area is intended for very short stops rather than waiting or parking. Drivers should remain only as long as necessary for passengers to get in or out and must follow any traffic signs, time limits, road markings or local regulations applying to the area.
Wikimedia.org • Lumixbx • CC BY-SA
What is a Kiss and Ride zone in Belgium?
A Kiss and Ride zone is an area intended for drivers to stop briefly while passengers get into or out of the vehicle. Such areas are commonly used near schools, railway stations and other locations where many passengers are dropped off or collected.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 2.22–2.23, 24 and 25
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 2.22–2.23, 24 and 25
When is dropping off a passenger considered stopping rather than parking in Belgium?
A vehicle is considered stopped when it remains stationary only for the time necessary for passengers to get in or out or for goods to be loaded or unloaded. Remaining stationary for longer than necessary is considered parking.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 2.22–2.23, 24 and 25
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 2.22–2.23, 24 and 25
What should you do if the Kiss and Ride area is full?
Do not stop in a dangerous or prohibited position or block the traffic while waiting. Continue to a legal parking or waiting place and return when space becomes available or when the passenger is ready.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 2.22–2.23, 24 and 25
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 2.22–2.23, 24 and 25
53. Parking meter
A parking meter is a device used to regulate and usually collect payment for parking in a designated parking space or area. It may require drivers to pay for a particular parking period, enter a vehicle registration number or obtain a ticket that must be displayed in the vehicle.
Parking meters may accept coins, payment cards, contactless payments or electronic payment methods, depending on the local system. Drivers must follow the instructions, operating hours, maximum parking duration and tariffs indicated on the meter, nearby signs or other official parking information.
Wikimedia.org • Jeanhousen • CC BY-SA
How does a parking meter work in Belgium?
At a Belgian parking meter or parking machine, parking must take place according to the method and conditions indicated on the device. These conditions may include the tariff, operating period, maximum parking duration and required payment procedure.
🔗 wegcode.be • Belgian Road Code, Articles 23–27ter, 70–71; Articles 23–27 and 51–52
What should you do if a Belgian parking meter is out of order?
If the parking meter or parking machine is out of service, you must use a parking disc according to the applicable Belgian blue-zone rules, unless another valid local arrangement applies.
🔗 wegcode.be • Belgian Road Code, Articles 23–27ter, 70–71; Articles 23–27 and 51–52
Can a Belgian parking meter impose a maximum parking time?
Yes. Drivers must respect the maximum parking duration indicated by the meter, parking machine or local parking rules. Using another permitted payment method does not allow the maximum authorised period to be exceeded.
🔗 wegcode.be • Belgian Road Code, Articles 23–27ter, 70–71; Articles 23–27 and 51–52
54. Traffic management
Traffic management is the organised control, regulation and guidance of road users to improve safety, traffic flow and the efficient use of roads. It can include traffic lights, road signs, road markings, lane controls, variable speed limits, diversions and directions given by authorised persons.
Traffic management may be permanent or temporary. Temporary measures are commonly introduced during roadworks, congestion, collisions, public events or other incidents. Drivers and other road users must follow the signs, signals and instructions applying at the location, even when they differ from the normal traffic arrangement.
Wikimedia.org • Thomas Vlerick • CC BY
How is traffic managed in Belgium?
Belgian traffic can be managed using traffic lights, road signs, road markings, lane-control signals, temporary traffic arrangements and instructions from authorised persons. Different measures may be used depending on traffic conditions, roadworks or incidents.
🔗 belgium.be • Belgium.be — avoiding and responding to motorway wrong-way driving
Which instruction has priority in Belgian traffic?
The orders of an authorised person take precedence over traffic signs and over the ordinary traffic rules. Traffic signs in turn take precedence over the general traffic rules.
🔗 belgium.be • Belgium.be — avoiding and responding to motorway wrong-way driving
What should you do if a police officer gives an instruction that conflicts with a traffic light?
You must follow the police officer's instruction. Orders given by an authorised person have a higher legal priority than traffic lights, road signs, road markings and the normal traffic rules.
🔗 belgium.be • Belgium.be — avoiding and responding to motorway wrong-way driving
Can hazards legalise an obstructive stop in Belgium?
No. Hazard lights do not excuse illegal stopping or double parking.
🔗 belgium.be • Belgium.be — avoiding and responding to motorway wrong-way driving
What if you accidentally drive the wrong way on a motorway in Belgium?
Slow down, use dipped headlights and hazards, stop safely out of traffic and call police. Never reverse or U-turn.
🔗 belgium.be • Belgium.be — avoiding and responding to motorway wrong-way driving
What if warned about motorway wrong-way traffic in Belgium?
Slow down gradually, keep right and stop overtaking. If necessary to warn following traffic of an imminent collision risk, use the hazard warning lights. Report the danger to the police as soon as you can do so safely. Continue to a safe stopping place; do not stop in a live lane simply to make the report.
🔗 belgium.be • Belgium.be — avoiding and responding to motorway wrong-way driving
55. Reversing
Reversing means driving a vehicle backwards. It is commonly used when parking, leaving a confined space or repositioning a vehicle where forward movement is not practical.
Before reversing, the driver should check mirrors and blind spots, look carefully around the vehicle and make sure the area behind is clear. Reversing should be performed slowly and only for as long as necessary because visibility behind the vehicle is often limited.
Wikimedia.org • Kārlis Dambrāns • CC BY
Must you give way when reversing in Belgium?
Yes. Reversing is considered a manoeuvre, so the reversing driver must give way to other road users and may only continue when the movement can be carried out safely.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 12.4–12.5, 12bis, 13, 21.4 and 22.2
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 12.4–12.5, 12bis, 13, 21.4 and 22.2
Is reversing allowed on Belgian expressways?
No. The prohibition on reversing that applies to motorways also applies to expressways. A driver who misses an exit or turning must continue and find a legal route back.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 12.4–12.5, 12bis, 13, 21.4 and 22.2
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 12.4–12.5, 12bis, 13, 21.4 and 22.2
56. Uncontrolled crossroad
An uncontrolled crossroad is an intersection where traffic priority is not specifically regulated by traffic lights, an authorised person or signs assigning priority to particular approaches. Drivers must therefore determine who has priority using the default traffic rules that apply in that country.
The applicable rule varies between countries and may include priority from the right, priority from the left or another default right-of-way rule. Drivers should approach an uncontrolled crossroad carefully, observe traffic from every direction and never assume that a wider or busier road automatically has priority.
Wikimedia.org • Jean Housen • CC BY-SA
Who has priority at an uncontrolled crossroad in Belgium?
At a Belgian crossroad where no other priority rule applies, every driver must give way to a driver approaching from the right.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 12.2–12.5 and 19
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 12.2–12.5 and 19
How should you approach an uncontrolled crossroad in Belgium?
You must approach the intersection with particular caution and be able to give way when required. Check carefully for traffic approaching from the right as well as for other road users who may have priority.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 12.2–12.5 and 19
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 12.2–12.5 and 19
Does the wider road have priority in Belgium?
No. A wider, busier or apparently more important road does not automatically have priority. If no signs or special rules establish another priority arrangement, the priority-from-the-right rule applies.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 12.2–12.5 and 19
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 12.2–12.5 and 19
57. Road surface
A road surface warning indicates that the road ahead may be uneven, damaged or in poor condition and could affect the stability, steering or braking of a vehicle. The hazard may include bumps, depressions, potholes, broken pavement or other irregularities in the road surface.
Drivers should reduce speed where necessary, maintain a safe distance and avoid sudden steering or braking when passing over an irregular surface. The exact meaning and appearance of the warning sign vary between countries, so drivers must follow the local traffic signs and regulations.
Wikimedia.org • LimoWreck • CC BY-SA
Warning for a bad road surface.
Which Belgian sign warns about an uneven road surface?
The Belgian A13 warning sign currently warns of a transverse depression or hump in the carriageway that may require drivers to reduce speed significantly.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 8.3, 10.1 and 66.4 (A13)
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 8.3, 10.1 and 66.4 (A13)
Warning for a bad road surface.
English • Traffic sign A13 • Dips or humps.
Français • Signal routier A13 • Cassis ou dos d'âne.
Nederlands • Verkeersbord A13 • Uitholling overdwars of ezelsrug.
Sources
SVG source: Commons.wikimedia.org
Vascer • Public domain. Original SVG unmodified.
🔗 Wegcode.be • Artikel 66. Gevaarsborden (NL)
🔗 Codedelaroute.be • Article 66. Signaux de danger (FR)
What should you do when you see an uneven-road warning sign in Belgium?
Observe the road ahead carefully and adapt your speed to the condition of the road. You should approach at a speed that allows you to pass the irregularity safely without losing control or causing danger.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 8.3, 10.1 and 66.4 (A13)
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 8.3, 10.1 and 66.4 (A13)
Does a Belgian uneven-road warning sign impose a specific speed limit?
No. The uneven-road sign is a warning sign and does not itself establish a numerical speed limit. Drivers must nevertheless adapt their speed to the road condition, and a separate speed-limit sign may impose a lower maximum speed.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 8.3, 10.1 and 66.4 (A13)
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 8.3, 10.1 and 66.4 (A13)
58. Ring road
A ring road is a road or connected system of roads that runs around or partly around a city, town or urban area. It is designed to distribute traffic between different parts of the area and to allow through traffic to bypass congested central streets.
A ring road is not necessarily a motorway or expressway. It may consist of motorways, divided highways, ordinary roads or a combination of different road types. The applicable speed limits, access restrictions, priority rules and lane rules therefore depend on the individual section and the local traffic signs and regulations.
Wikimedia.org • Aktron • CC BY
What is a ring road in Belgium?
A Belgian ring road is a route that runs around or partly around a city or urban area and connects different roads and destinations. Belgian rings are commonly identified by a ring route number.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 11, 21.4 and 71 (F23a–F23d and direction signs)
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 11, 21.4 and 71 (F23a–F23d and direction signs)
Is there a special Belgian speed limit for ring roads?
No. There is no single speed limit that applies simply because a road is a ring. The maximum speed depends on the road type, region, vehicle category and traffic signs applying to the particular section.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 11, 21.4 and 71 (F23a–F23d and direction signs)
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 11, 21.4 and 71 (F23a–F23d and direction signs)
What should you do if you miss an exit on a Belgian motorway ring?
Continue to the next suitable exit or interchange and find a safe legal route back. Never reverse, make a U-turn, drive against the direction of traffic or use connections through the central reservation on a motorway.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 11, 21.4 and 71 (F23a–F23d and direction signs)
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 11, 21.4 and 71 (F23a–F23d and direction signs)
59. Cycle highway
A cycle highway is a high-quality, continuous cycling route designed to provide fast, direct and comfortable travel over longer distances. Cycle highways commonly connect cities, residential areas, workplaces, schools, public transport hubs and other important destinations.
A cycle highway may consist of separate cycle paths, shared paths, quiet roads, bridges, tunnels or other cycling infrastructure. It is therefore not necessarily one continuous type of road. Access rules, priority, speed limits and permitted road users depend on the individual sections and on the local traffic signs and regulations.
Wikimedia.org • FrDr • CC BY-SA
What is a cycle highway in Belgium?
A Belgian cycle highway, particularly known in Flanders as a fietssnelweg or fietsostrade, is a continuous cycling route intended to connect cities and important destinations using high-quality cycling infrastructure.
🔗 vlaanderen.be • Flemish Government — cycle highways and their route function
Must cyclists use a cycle highway in Belgium?
The fact that a route is designated as a cycle highway does not by itself make its use compulsory. However, an individual section may contain a compulsory cycle path or another road arrangement that cyclists must use according to the applicable traffic signs and rules.
🔗 vlaanderen.be • Flemish Government — cycle highways and their route function
Can speed pedelecs use Belgian cycle highways?
Whether a speed pedelec may use a particular section depends on the type of infrastructure and the applicable traffic signs. Special rules apply because speed pedelecs are legally classified differently from ordinary bicycles.
🔗 vlaanderen.be • Flemish Government — cycle highways and their route function
60. Licence plate
A licence plate, also called a registration plate or number plate, is a plate displaying a unique registration identifier assigned to a vehicle by the competent registration authority. It allows the vehicle to be identified for purposes such as registration, traffic enforcement, taxation, insurance and parking control.
The appearance, format, placement and number of plates required vary between countries and vehicle categories. Drivers must ensure that required licence plates are correctly fitted, clearly visible and legible and must follow the local rules when a plate is lost, stolen, damaged or replaced.
Wikimedia.org • Ralf_Roletschek • GFDL
Who issues Belgian licence plates?
Belgian registration plates are issued through the Vehicle Registration Service (DIV) of the Federal Public Service Mobility and Transport when a vehicle is registered.
🔗 wegcode.be • Vias/Wegcode, Vehicle Registration Decree, Articles 1–3, 16–17
🔗 vlaanderen.be • Flemish Government, official registration plate
🔗 mobilit.belgium.be • Belgian FPS Mobility, registering a car, Vehicle registration
Must a vehicle be registered before it can be driven in Belgium?
Yes, as a general rule. A vehicle may only be put into circulation once it has been registered and carries the registration plate assigned to that registration, subject to the specific legal exemptions for certain vehicle categories.
🔗 wegcode.be • Vias/Wegcode, Vehicle Registration Decree, Articles 1–3, 16–17
🔗 vlaanderen.be • Flemish Government, official registration plate
🔗 mobilit.belgium.be • Belgian FPS Mobility, registering a car, Vehicle registration
Which plate is the official Belgian registration plate?
For an ordinary car, the rear plate bearing the official DIV mark is the official registration plate issued by the DIV. The plate at the front is a reproduction of the registration number.
🔗 wegcode.be • Vias/Wegcode, Vehicle Registration Decree, Articles 1–3, 16–17
🔗 vlaanderen.be • Flemish Government, official registration plate
🔗 mobilit.belgium.be • Belgian FPS Mobility, registering a car, Vehicle registration
61. Charging station
A charging station is a location equipped with one or more charging points where the battery of an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle can be connected to an electricity supply and recharged. Charging stations may be located along public roads, in car parks, at service areas or on private property.
Charging spaces may be reserved for vehicles that are charging and can be subject to parking restrictions, time limits, payment requirements or other conditions. Drivers must follow the traffic signs, parking regulations and charging instructions applying at the location.
Wikimedia.org • Aschroet • CC0
How is an electric-vehicle charging space indicated in Belgium?
Belgian parking signs of the E9 type may use the electric-vehicle symbol to reserve spaces for electric or hybrid-electric vehicles. Where a space has public charging infrastructure, the vehicle must be connected to it. Read any vehicle-category, time or other parking conditions as well; an electric vehicle is not automatically entitled to occupy every charging space without connecting.
Can you charge a vehicle where parking is prohibited?
No. Because charging is legally considered parking, connecting a vehicle to a charger does not override a parking prohibition or another restriction applying at that location.
Can a Belgian charging space have a maximum parking duration?
Yes. Parking signs and supplementary information may impose a maximum parking duration or other restrictions. Being connected to the charger does not exempt the driver from those conditions.
62. Dangers
A general danger warning sign warns road users of a hazard ahead that is not represented by a more specific warning sign. The particular danger may be explained by a supplementary panel, text, symbol or other indication placed with the warning sign.
Drivers should increase their attention, observe the road ahead and adapt their speed to the nature of the hazard and surrounding conditions. The exact appearance of the sign and the way the danger is identified vary between countries, so road users must follow the local traffic signs and regulations.
Wikimedia.org • G. Friedrich • CC BY-SA
Which Belgian sign warns of a danger without a specific warning symbol?
The Belgian A51 sign warns of a danger that is not represented by a specific warning symbol.
🔗 wegcode.be • Belgian current Road Code — Article66.4 — A51 general danger
Warning for a danger with no specific traffic sign.
English • Traffic sign A51 • Danger not represented by a specific symbol. A supplementary plate indicates the nature of the danger.
Français • Signal routier A51 • Danger non défini par un symbole spécial. Un panneau additionnel indique la nature du danger.
Nederlands • Verkeersbord A51 • Gevaar dat niet door een speciaal symbool wordt bepaald. Een onderbord duidt de aard van het gevaar aan.
Sources
SVG source: Commons.wikimedia.org
Vascer • Public domain. Original SVG unmodified.
🔗 Wegcode.be • Artikel 66. Gevaarsborden (NL)
🔗 Codedelaroute.be • Article 66. Signaux de danger (FR)
What should you do when you see a general danger warning sign in Belgium?
Increase your attention, read the supplementary information and observe the road and surroundings carefully. Adapt your speed where necessary to deal safely with the indicated danger.
🔗 wegcode.be • Belgian current Road Code — Article66.4 — A51 general danger
Does a Belgian general danger warning sign impose a speed limit?
No. A general danger sign is a warning sign and does not itself impose a numerical speed limit. A separate speed-limit sign may be used when a specific maximum speed is required.
🔗 wegcode.be • Belgian current Road Code — Article66.4 — A51 general danger
63. Turn on red
Turn on red is a traffic rule or signal arrangement that allows certain road users to proceed in a specified direction despite a red traffic light. It most commonly permits a turn after the driver has stopped or yielded, but the exact procedure varies between countries.
A turn on red is not universally permitted. It may be allowed generally, only when a specific sign or signal is present, or prohibited entirely. Drivers must always follow the local traffic lights, signs, priority rules and pedestrian or cyclist crossings before proceeding.
Wikimedia.org • ArticCynda • CC BY-SA
May motorists normally turn right on red in Belgium?
No. Belgium does not have a general rule allowing ordinary motorists to turn right simply because the way is clear. A red traffic light normally prohibits passing the stop line or traffic light.
🔗 wegcode.be • Belgian Road Code, Articles 61.1, 63.1-63.2, 67.3
Do you have priority when following a green arrow beside a red light?
No. A driver proceeding under an additional green arrow must give way to drivers lawfully approaching from other directions and to pedestrians.
🔗 wegcode.be • Belgian Road Code, Articles 61.1, 63.1-63.2, 67.3
Can cyclists turn right on red in Belgium?
Yes, where a B22 sign is installed. Cyclists and speed-pedelec riders may pass a red or orange-yellow traffic light to turn right, provided they give way to the other road users who have priority.
🔗 wegcode.be • Belgian Road Code, Articles 61.1, 63.1-63.2, 67.3
64. Identity card
An identity card is an official document used to prove a person's identity. It is normally issued by a government or another competent authority and contains identifying information such as the holder's name, date of birth, photograph and a unique document or identification number.
Identity cards may be required for identification checks, administrative procedures, travel or access to services. The obligation to possess or carry an identity card, the information it contains and whether it can be used as a travel document vary between countries.
Wikimedia.org • Government of Belgium • CC0
What is the Belgian eID?
The Belgian eID is the electronic identity card issued to Belgian citizens from the age at which the ordinary Belgian identity-card system applies. It proves the holder's identity and contains an electronic chip that can also be used for electronic identification.
🔗 ibz.rrn.fgov.be • Belgian Interior Ministry — eID issue at12 and carrying from15
At what age do Belgians receive an identity card?
The Belgian eID is issued from the age of 12. Belgian children younger than 12 can instead have a Kids-ID.
🔗 ibz.rrn.fgov.be • Belgian Interior Ministry — eID issue at12 and carrying from15
Must a driver carry an identity card in Belgium?
Belgian citizens aged 15 and over must normally carry their identity card, or the prescribed declaration document if it has been lost, stolen or destroyed. The ordinary eID is issued from age 12, which is different from the general carrying age. Driving does not replace this identity-document obligation with the separate requirement to carry a valid driving licence.
🔗 ibz.rrn.fgov.be • Belgian Interior Ministry — eID issue at12 and carrying from15
65. Fire risk
A fire risk sign warns road users that there is an increased danger of fire in or near the area. It may be used where dry vegetation, flammable materials or other conditions make fires particularly likely or where additional caution is required.
The appearance and legal status of fire-risk signs vary between countries. Drivers should avoid actions that could start a fire, obey any accompanying restrictions and remain alert for smoke, flames or emergency activity.
Wikimedia.org • Bokske • CC BY-SA
Is there a specific fire risk traffic sign in Belgium?
No dedicated standard Belgian traffic sign is specifically assigned to fire risk. A general warning sign or other local safety signage may instead be used to warn road users where a particular fire hazard exists.
What should you do when warned of fire danger in Belgium?
Take extra care, respect any access restrictions or instructions and avoid behaviour that could start a fire. During periods of high fire danger, additional restrictions can apply in forests and nature areas.
66. Pedestrian
A pedestrian is a person travelling on foot along or across a road, street, path or other public space. Depending on local traffic law, people pushing bicycles, wheelchairs, prams or certain other small devices may also be treated as pedestrians.
Pedestrians normally use pavements, sidewalks, footpaths and pedestrian areas where these are available. When crossing a road or walking where no suitable pedestrian facility exists, they must follow the applicable crossing rules, traffic lights and other local traffic regulations.
Wikimedia.org • Jeanhousen • CC BY-SA
Who is considered a pedestrian in Belgium?
A Belgian pedestrian is a person travelling on foot. Certain people pushing small vehicles or mobility devices are also legally treated as pedestrians.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 2.46, 7bis, 42.1 and 42.4.1
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 2.46, 7bis, 42.1 and 42.4.1
Which side of the road should Belgian pedestrians walk on?
When pedestrians must use the carriageway or lateral strip, they normally walk on the left relative to their direction of travel, facing approaching traffic. They may use the right when safety justifies it. First use the available pedestrian facilities in the statutory order; organised groups and people leading certain vehicles have specific additional rules.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 2.46, 7bis, 42.1 and 42.4.1
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 2.46, 7bis, 42.1 and 42.4.1
Must pedestrians use a pedestrian crossing in Belgium?
Yes, when a pedestrian crossing is less than approximately 20 metres away. Pedestrians must then use that crossing rather than cross elsewhere.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 2.46, 7bis, 42.1 and 42.4.1
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 2.46, 7bis, 42.1 and 42.4.1
67. Moped
A moped is a lightweight motor vehicle, usually with two or three wheels, whose power, engine capacity or maximum design speed is limited by law. Mopeds generally occupy a legal category between bicycles and motorcycles, although their exact classification varies between countries.
Special rules may apply concerning the minimum riding age, driving licence, helmet, registration, insurance, maximum speed and use of cycle paths or roadways. Riders must therefore follow the classification and traffic regulations applying in the country where they are travelling.
Wikimedia.org • Spotter2 • CC BY-SA
What is a Belgian class A moped?
A class A moped is a two- or three-wheeled moped with a maximum design speed of 25 km/h. For an internal-combustion engine, the cylinder capacity is generally limited to 50 cm³, while applicable power limits also apply.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 2.17, 8.2, 9.1.2, 11.3 and 36
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 2.17, 8.2, 9.1.2, 11.3 and 36
What is a Belgian class B moped?
A class B moped is outside class A and has a maximum design speed of 45 km/h. The precise engine and power conditions depend on its wheels and construction. Two-wheel models have a 50 cm³ combustion-engine ceiling and a 4 kW power ceiling; certain enclosed four-wheel models have a 6 kW ceiling. Do not apply one simplified specification to every three- or four-wheel model.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 2.17, 8.2, 9.1.2, 11.3 and 36
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 2.17, 8.2, 9.1.2, 11.3 and 36
How old must you be to ride a moped in Belgium?
You must normally be at least 16 years old to ride a moped on the public road.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 2.17, 8.2, 9.1.2, 11.3 and 36
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 2.17, 8.2, 9.1.2, 11.3 and 36
Must moped riders wear a helmet in Belgium?
Yes. Drivers and passengers of mopeds without a passenger compartment must wear an approved protective helmet. Specific helmet rules apply to speed pedelecs.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 2.17, 8.2, 9.1.2, 11.3 and 36
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 2.17, 8.2, 9.1.2, 11.3 and 36
What is the maximum speed of a Belgian moped?
A class A moped is limited to 25 km/h, while a class B moped is limited to 45 km/h. A lower speed limit applying to the road must still be respected.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 2.17, 8.2, 9.1.2, 11.3 and 36
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 2.17, 8.2, 9.1.2, 11.3 and 36
Must a class A moped use the cycle path in Belgium?
Where a suitable cycle path is provided and indicated in the manner prescribed by Belgian law, a two-wheeled class A moped must normally use it in the applicable direction.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 2.17, 8.2, 9.1.2, 11.3 and 36
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 2.17, 8.2, 9.1.2, 11.3 and 36
68. Car
A car is a motor vehicle primarily designed to transport a small number of people and their luggage on roads. Cars may be powered by petrol, diesel, electricity, hydrogen or a combination of different energy sources.
Drivers must comply with the applicable requirements concerning the driving licence, vehicle registration, insurance, technical condition, seat belts and passenger safety. Speed limits, equipment requirements, road access and other traffic rules vary between countries, so drivers must follow the local traffic signs and regulations.
Wikimedia.org • Jean Housen • CC BY-SA
What is considered a car in Belgium?
In everyday use, a car usually means a passenger motor vehicle. The Belgian Road Code uses the broader legal term auto for motor vehicles that do not fall within the definitions of a moped, motorcycle or motorised three- or four-wheeler.
Must people wear seat belts in a Belgian car?
Yes. Drivers and passengers must wear the seat belts provided at their seating positions, subject to the limited exemptions specified by law.
What is the minimum tyre tread depth for a Belgian car?
For ordinary car tyres, the technical regulation requires remaining tread depth of more than 1.6 mm over three quarters of the tread. Inspect the main grooves and wear indicators and replace worn tyres before reaching the limit. Tyres must also meet the applicable condition, load and speed requirements.
🔗 wegcode.be • Royal Decree of 15 March 1968 — articles 1, 34, 43 §2 and 54 as applicable
69. Truck
A truck is a motor vehicle designed primarily for transporting goods. Trucks range from relatively small delivery vehicles to large heavy goods vehicles and articulated combinations used for long-distance freight transport.
Because trucks are generally larger, heavier and slower to manoeuvre than passenger cars, they require more space for turning and braking and often have larger blind spots. Specific speed, lane-use, overtaking and access rules may apply depending on the vehicle's weight and the country.
Wikimedia.org • Jeanhousen • CC BY-SA
How is a truck defined in Belgium?
Goods vehicles belong to categories N1, N2 or N3, according to maximum mass. The technical regulation also distinguishes body types such as a lorry, van and tractor unit. A van in category N1 is not automatically a lorry merely because it carries goods; read the vehicle classification and any restriction actually applying to it.
🔗 wegcode.be • Royal Decree of 15 March 1968 — articles 1, 34, 43 §2 and 54 as applicable
Can trucks use every lane on a Belgian motorway?
No. On a motorway with three or more lanes in the same direction, vehicles and combinations with a maximum authorised mass of more than 3.5 tonnes may normally use only the two right-hand lanes, except where specific lane-direction signs indicate otherwise.
70. Bus
A bus is a motor vehicle designed to transport multiple passengers, usually along roads as part of public transport, school transport, private transport or another passenger service. Buses generally have more passenger capacity than cars and may be designed to carry seated passengers, standing passengers or both.
Special rules may apply to buses concerning the driving licence, passenger capacity, speed limits, seat belts, bus lanes, stops and passenger boarding. The legal classification of buses and coaches and the rules applying to them vary between countries, so drivers and passengers must follow the local traffic regulations.
Wikimedia.org • Arflhn • CC BY-SA
What is legally considered a bus in Belgium?
A Belgian autobus is a motor vehicle designed and constructed to carry seated and standing passengers and having more than eight passenger seats, excluding the driver's seat.
Must passengers wear seat belts on Belgian buses?
Where a passenger seat is equipped with a seat belt, the applicable seat-belt requirement must be followed. In vehicles with more than eight passenger seats, passengers must also be informed of the obligation to wear available seat belts by the driver, another responsible person, audiovisual information or notices at the seats.
What is the maximum speed of a Belgian bus on a motorway?
An autobus is limited to 90 km/h on Belgian motorways, even though the general motorway limit for many passenger cars is 120 km/h. Different rules can apply to qualifying coaches.
71. Police
Police are public authorities responsible for enforcing laws, maintaining public safety and managing situations that may affect road traffic. In traffic, police officers may control vehicles, enforce traffic rules, investigate collisions, direct traffic and respond to emergencies.
Road users must follow lawful instructions given by police officers or other authorised traffic-control personnel. Police directions may temporarily override traffic lights, road signs or normal traffic arrangements, depending on local law.
Wikimedia.org • CC0
Must you obey a police officer directing traffic in Belgium?
Yes. Road users must immediately obey the orders of an authorised person, including police officers acting within their authority.
Do police instructions take priority over Belgian traffic lights and signs?
Yes. Orders from authorised persons take precedence over traffic lights, traffic signs, road markings and the ordinary traffic rules.
Must a Belgian driver carry a driving licence?
Yes. A person driving a motor vehicle for which a driving licence is required must hold the appropriate valid licence and normally carry it while driving so that it can be presented when lawfully required.
72. Ambulance
An ambulance is a vehicle equipped and used to provide emergency medical assistance or transport patients to or between healthcare facilities. Ambulances may carry medical equipment and trained personnel who can provide treatment during transport.
During an emergency response, an ambulance may use warning lights and a siren and may receive special priority or exemptions from certain traffic rules. Other road users must follow the local rules for emergency vehicles, make sufficient space and avoid obstructing their passage.
Wikimedia.org • Thibault Latinne • CC BY-SA
Is an ambulance a priority vehicle in Belgium?
An ambulance or other vehicle used for urgent medical assistance can operate as a priority vehicle when it satisfies the applicable requirements for priority vehicles, including the prescribed blue warning lights and special audible warning device.
🔗 wegcode.be • Belgian current Road Code — Articles37–38 and59.13 — urgent medical vehicles
What should you do when a Belgian ambulance approaches with its siren?
You must immediately clear the way and give priority. You must stop if necessary so that the ambulance can pass safely.
🔗 wegcode.be • Belgian current Road Code — Articles37–38 and59.13 — urgent medical vehicles
Can a Belgian ambulance exceed the normal speed limit?
During an urgent mission, the driver of an emergency medical vehicle can benefit from exemptions from many normal traffic rules, including ordinary speed provisions. The driver must nevertheless operate the vehicle in a manner compatible with the applicable safety obligations.
🔗 wegcode.be • Belgian current Road Code — Articles37–38 and59.13 — urgent medical vehicles
73. Tram lights
Tram lights are special traffic signals used to control the movement of trams and, in some countries, other public-transport vehicles. They are often designed differently from ordinary red, amber and green traffic lights so that public-transport drivers can clearly distinguish the signals intended for them.
The signals may indicate stop, prepare to stop, proceed or proceed only in a specified direction. Their shapes, colours and meanings vary between countries, so road users must follow the local traffic-signal system and regulations.
Wikimedia.org • Robot8A • CC BY-SA
What are tram lights in Belgium?
Belgian tram lights are special traffic signals for vehicles used in regular public passenger transport. They use white bars, circles and triangles on a black background instead of ordinary red, amber and green lenses.
Can cyclists have to follow these special public-transport lights?
Yes, in certain situations. Cyclists using a special traversable reserved lane controlled by these public-transport signals must follow the special signals applying there.
Can a tram receive permission to move while cars remain stopped?
Yes. The special public-transport signals can separately control tram or public-transport movements, so a tram may be permitted to proceed while ordinary road traffic remains stopped by its own signal.
74. European emission standard
A European emission standard, commonly called a Euro standard, is a European vehicle classification based on limits for pollutants emitted by vehicles and their engines. Successive standards, such as Euro 4, Euro 5 and Euro 6, introduced progressively stricter requirements for pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons.
A vehicle's Euro standard is determined as part of its type approval and depends on factors including the vehicle category, fuel type and applicable emissions legislation when it was approved. Euro standards may also be used by authorities to determine access to low-emission zones, but local access rules vary between countries and cities.
Wikimedia.org • Rfeba • CC0
What is a Euro emission standard in Belgium?
The Euro emission standard, often called the euronorm in Belgium, indicates the European emissions requirements that a vehicle satisfies. It is used as an official vehicle characteristic and can influence access to low-emission zones.
Where can you find the Euro standard of a Belgian vehicle?
The Euro standard is normally indicated in field V.9 of the registration certificate.
What should you do if the Euro standard recorded for your vehicle is incorrect?
You should request a correction of the vehicle data through the competent authority and provide supporting evidence, such as the European Certificate of Conformity, where required.
🔗 stad.gent • City of Ghent, correcting Euro-standard information
75. Pothole
A pothole is a hole or depression in the road surface caused by wear, weather, water, repeated traffic loads or deterioration of the pavement. Potholes can vary greatly in size and depth and may develop gradually or become worse after freezing, heavy rain or repeated vehicle traffic.
Potholes can affect steering, braking and vehicle stability and may damage tyres, wheels or suspension components. Drivers and riders should observe the road ahead, adapt their speed and avoid sudden or dangerous manoeuvres when encountering damaged road surfaces.
Wikimedia.org • State Farm • CC BY
What is a pothole?
A pothole is a local hole or depression in the road surface caused by deterioration or damage to the pavement.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 8.3, 10.1 and 66.4 (A13)
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 8.3, 10.1 and 66.4 (A13)
What should you do when approaching a pothole in Belgium?
Adapt your speed and remain in control of the vehicle. Observe surrounding traffic carefully and avoid sudden braking or steering that could endanger other road users.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 8.3, 10.1 and 66.4 (A13)
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 8.3, 10.1 and 66.4 (A13)
Must Belgian drivers adapt their speed to damaged road surfaces?
Yes. Belgian drivers must adapt their speed to circumstances including the condition of the road, visibility, traffic conditions and foreseeable obstacles.
🔗 codex.vlaanderen.be • Belgian Road Code — articles 8.3, 10.1 and 66.4 (A13)
🔗 wegcode.be • Road Code of 1 December 1975 — 8.3, 10.1 and 66.4 (A13)