Non European driving license

Do You Have A Driving License issued by a NON European Union Country?

It is always a requirement for drivers, issued with a Belgian ID card, owning a license from a non-European Union country to report to the Belgian administration where they live and exchange their national license for a Belgian license. It means that the rule is not applicable to the members of the Forces, to whom I would recommend to apply, when necessary, for an International driving license: the SHAPE Federal Police / Registration section, building 210, may provide you with necessary information.

Being a SHAPE member, the Central Processing Centre / Registration Office has issued you a SHAPE driving license, which allows you to drive in Belgium without completing the former requirement.

But, be aware the SHAPE driving license is only valid in Belgium and your national driving license could not be accepted in some other countries around Belgium. You have to check that fact with your national authorities and the authorities of the country you plan to visit.

On the other hand, what do you do if your license expires or is lost or stolen? You will have to wait until your holidays or some other opportunity to go back home to have the licensereplaced or renewed. However, there is a problem with this solution. In Belgium, there is no way you can operate a motor vehicle without carrying a valid license.

It is the law.

WHAT TO DO?

First of all, it is highly recommended that you exchange your national driving license for a Belgian driving license.

HOW TO DO IT?

Report to the SHAPE Federal Police / Registration section to obtain a document that you will have to produce to the city hall where you are living.
Report to that administration with this document, your Belgian ID, your SHAPE driving license, two pictures and 16 €.

You are now in possession of A European Driving License.

If your license is lost or stolen, you will be able to take a copy of the police report to the town hall and they will be able to issue you a replacement Belgian driving license valid until your tour at SHAPE is completed.

If you are a member of the civilian component at SHAPE, your Belgian driving license can be valid for many years.

(Références Circulaire aux Administrations communales)

If you have any difficulties with this procedure, please contact the SHAPE Federal Police / Registration section.