Documentation, Insurance, Offences and Penalties
Papers to carry
You must be able to produce your driving licence, the vehicle's registration certificate, and proof of insurance and roadworthiness inspection (technical control). In Belgium the insurance obligation is third-party liability: it covers damage you cause to others, not your own car unless you have extra cover.
The vehicle must pass periodic technical inspection at the intervals set for its age and type. A valid inspection certificate is required to keep the vehicle legally on the road.
Offences and penalties. Belgium uses a fine system based on multipliers (opdeciemen): the base amounts are multiplied, so the real fine is considerably higher than the nominal figure. Serious offences - heavy speeding, drink driving, driving without a licence - can lead to licence withdrawal, a driving ban, or a court appearance.
Points and withdrawal. A licence can be suspended immediately for serious offences such as excessive speed or driving under the influence. Repeat offences escalate.
Traps:
- Questions often quote the base fine; remember the multiplier applies.
- Insurance covers third parties - damage to your own vehicle is not automatic.
- Driving without valid insurance is an offence even if you never have an accident.
- A vehicle without a valid inspection certificate may not be driven on public roads.
Rule of thumb: if you cannot produce the document on the spot, you usually have a short period to present it - but the obligation exists regardless.
Worked example: a driver is stopped at 30 km/h over the limit in a built-up area. This is a serious offence carrying a substantial multiplied fine and possible licence suspension.