Driving in Belgium as a Japan National

Belgium drives on the right with excellent motorways, multilingual signage, and straightforward rules. EU and US license holders generally do not need an IDP.

Key Things to Know First

No IDP Typically Required

Belgium generally accepts foreign licences for short-term visitors. Carry your original licence and passport at all times.

Drive on the Right — You Are Switching Sides

Japan drives on the left, but Belgium drives on the right. Extra caution required at roundabouts, intersections, and after exits.

Tips for switching sides

Side-by-Side Comparison

Rule	Japan	Belgium	Change?
Traffic side	Left-hand traffic	Right-hand traffic	Yes
Speed unit	km/h	km/h	Same
IDP required	—	No	No
Min. driving age	18	18	Same
Emergency number	110	112	Different
Road difficulty	Moderate	Easy	—

Speed Limits in Belgium

Urban

30-50 km/h

Rural / Open road

90 km/h

Highway / Motorway

120 km/h

Documents to Carry in Belgium

Original driving licence from Japan — must be valid and unexpired
Passport or national ID — carry at all times while driving
Car insurance certificate — verify it covers Belgium before departure
Vehicle registration / rental agreement

Emergency Number in Belgium

112

112 is the pan-European emergency number, widely accepted across many countries worldwide.

Emergency numbers for all countries

Full Belgium Driving Guide

Road rules, toll system, fuel types, parking, regional quirks — everything you need for driving in Belgium.

Read the complete guide