Car Rental in Belgium - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Belgium is generally recommended for exploring the countryside, visiting multiple cities on your own schedule, or taking road trips through the Ardennes region. It's particularly useful for reaching smaller towns and villages not well-served by public transport, or when traveling with family and luggage. However, skip the rental if you're staying primarily in Brussels, Bruges, Antwerp, or Ghent. These cities have excellent public transport, expensive parking, and congested streets that make driving more hassle than convenience. Belgium's compact size and efficient train network mean most major destinations are easily accessible without a car. Driving conditions are straightforward for tourists. Belgium drives on the right side of the road, with well-maintained highways and clear signage in multiple languages. Roads are generally in good condition, though urban areas can be busy with trams, cyclists, and pedestrians requiring extra attention. Be aware that parking in city centers is expensive and limited. Many historic town centers have restricted access zones. If you do rent, consider using park-and-ride facilities on city outskirts and taking public transport into centers. An international driving permit isn't required for most visitors, but check current requirements based on your nationality.

International Driving Permit

An IDP is recommended for non-EU license holders visiting Belgium, though not always legally required. It serves as an official translation of your license and is obtained from your home country before travel.

Valid Driver's License

EU/EEA licenses are fully accepted. Non-EU licenses are generally accepted for short-term visits (typically up to 6 months), but requirements vary by country of origin.

Minimum Age

Rental agencies typically require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with some companies setting the minimum at 23-25 for certain vehicle categories. Young driver surcharges often apply under age 25.

Credit Card

A credit card in the main driver's name is required for the security deposit. Debit cards are generally not accepted for deposits at most major rental agencies.

Insurance Coverage

Basic insurance (third-party liability) is mandatory and included in rentals. Additional coverage like CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) and theft protection is strongly recommended - verify what's included in your rental rate.

Driving Experience

Most rental companies require drivers to have held their license for at least 1-2 years. Some premium or larger vehicle categories may require 3+ years of driving experience.

Rent from major international agencies at Brussels Airport or Charleroi Airport for convenience, though city locations may offer competitive rates - compare options through booking platforms for current availability and pricing.

Before driving off, thoroughly inspect the vehicle for existing damage, verify you have all required documents (license, insurance, rental agreement), and confirm the fuel policy (typically full-to-full in Belgium).

Belgium has excellent road signage, but GPS is recommended as city centers can be confusing with multiple languages (French/Dutch) - most rental agencies offer GPS units or ensure your phone has offline maps downloaded.

Fuel stations are widely available, but note that fuel prices vary and many stations are self-service - parking in city centers like Brussels and Bruges can be expensive and restricted, so research parking options at your destinations beforehand.

Plan to return the car with a full tank if required, allow extra time for airport returns during peak hours, and photograph the vehicle's condition and fuel gauge as proof of return state.

Belgium has complex priority-to-the-right rules at unmarked intersections where vehicles from the right have priority, which differs from many countries - watch for traffic merging from side streets even on what appears to be a main road.

Speed cameras and red light cameras are extensively used throughout Belgium, with automated enforcement common on highways and in cities - strictly observe posted limits as fines are issued automatically to vehicle owners.

Belgian highways experience severe congestion during morning (7-9 AM) and evening (4-7 PM) rush hours, particularly around Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent - the Brussels Ring (R0) is notorious for delays and should be avoided during peak times if possible.

Cobblestone streets in historic city centers become extremely slippery when wet, and frequent rain throughout the year creates hazardous conditions - reduce speed significantly on cobbled surfaces, especially during Belgium's common rainy weather from October through March.