Motor vehicle Laws Belgium
Belgium enforces comprehensive motor vehicle laws to ensure road safety and environmental sustainability. Key aspects include:
Driving Regulations
Driving Side: Motorists in Belgium drive on the right side of the road.
Speed Limits:
- Urban Areas: 50 km/h (31 mph).
- Regional Roads: 70 km/h (43 mph).
- Highways: 120 km/h (75 mph).
- Slow Zones: 30 km/h (19 mph).
Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limit: The legal BAC limit is 0.05%. Exceeding this limit can lead to penalties, including fines and license suspension.
Vehicle Inspections
- All cars over four years old must undergo an annual inspection, known as "autokeuring" (Dutch) or "contrôle technique" (French). The inspection covers exhaust emissions, lights, suspension, brakes, tires, and checks for body damage and rust. Vehicles that pass receive a green certificate, which must be carried in the vehicle at all times.
Vehicle Registration and Road Tax
Registration fees for passenger cars are based on engine displacement, power output, and environmental criteria such as CO₂ emissions. Diesel cars with larger displacements may incur higher fees due to environmental considerations.
An annual road tax is levied, calculated based on engine displacement and environmental criteria. Additional fees apply for vehicles running on LPG or CNG to compensate for lower fuel excise taxes.
Low-Emission Zones (LEZ)
- Belgium has established LEZs in several cities to reduce air pollution:
- Antwerp: Since 2017, only diesel vehicles meeting Euro 3/III standards and petrol vehicles meeting Euro 1/I standards are allowed.
- Brussels: Since 2018, only diesel vehicles meeting Euro 4/IV standards and petrol vehicles meeting Euro 2/II standards are permitted.
- Ghent: Introduced a LEZ on January 1, 2020, with specific emission standards for entry.
Future Initiatives
- Belgium is committed to phasing out fossil fuel vehicles. By 2026, tax deductibility for diesel and petrol employee company cars will end, and by 2035, the sale of new fossil fuel-powered vehicles will be banned.
Recommendations for Drivers
Stay Informed: Regularly consult official sources for updates on traffic regulations, LEZs, and licensing requirements.
Ensure Compliance: Verify that your vehicle meets Belgian safety and environmental standards, and carry valid registration and insurance documents.
Adhere to Speed Limits: Observe posted speed limits to avoid fines and other penalties.
Avoid Alcohol Consumption: Given the legal BAC limit, refrain from consuming alcohol if you plan to drive.
Adherence to Belgium's motor vehicle laws is essential for safe and lawful driving within the country.
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