At a glance
Every year, a large number of drivers need to renew their European driving licence. How does this process work?
Do you drive in Belgium or abroad, and hold a European driving licence in the form of a bank-card-style licence?
Bear in mind that, unlike the old paper version, this type of driving licence has an expiry date. So it's important to renew your driving licence in good time.
How do you go about it, and which authority should you contact?
Our blogger Alain Dierckx explains.
Why do European driving licences need to be renewed?
In 2023, more than 400,000 drivers will need to renew their driving licence. The main reason for this renewal requirement is the fight against document forgery. The new driving licence will meet the highest security standards.
When should you renew your European driving licence?
The European driving licence is valid for 10 years. Renewal must be carried out three months before the expiry date shown on the driving licence. As a reminder, the authorities will send a letter containing the necessary instructions, but to be safe, keep an eye on the expiry date yourself so you can complete the formalities in good time.
How do you apply to renew your driving licence?
The authorities are currently working on setting up a system for applying for renewal electronically. This will save a trip to the local council office. Today, it's already possible to apply for a provisional 18-month driving licence this way. The application can be made on this website. Later on, "ordinary" driving licence renewals will also be possible this way.
How much does renewing a driving licence cost?
There's a fixed cost of 20 euros, to which the local council tax must be added. The total cost therefore varies depending on where you live.
What happens if the driving licence isn't renewed in time?
Without a valid driving licence, driving is prohibited. This offence is punishable by very heavy fines, and the driving licence can be withdrawn for a long period, even years. In practice, however, the police always start by issuing a warning.
Be especially careful if you're not up to date and you're driving abroad. Fines can be very high there, and you risk a great deal in the event of an accident.
If you don't have a valid driving licence, you also won't be able to apply for an international driving permit.
What about holders of paper driving licences?
By 2033 at the latest, every driver of a vehicle in Europe will need to hold a driving licence in bank-card format. However, if the holder no longer resembles the old photo (and is therefore unrecognisable) or if the document is in poor condition, we advise you to replace it ahead of time. You can get more information from your local council. In the event of loss, theft or withdrawal of the paper version, you'll automatically receive a copy in bank-card format.
