Cross-border route
Belgium Germany
Driving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Belgium into Germany, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Germany expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the Both format. Both countries drive on the right, so there is no change of driving side at the border. Plan your border crossing in advance and keep your passport, national licence and IDP together.
Last reviewed June 2026
Route at a glance
FromBelgium
ToGermany
IDP in GermanyRequired
Accepted formatBoth
Driving sideright (no change)
Currency in GermanyEUR
Belgium → Germany
Crossing the border
Belgium and Germany share a land border you can cross by car. Keep your passport, national driving licence and International Driving Permit together, and check opening hours and any toll or vignette requirements before you travel.
Driving rules in Germany
- Autobahn: keep right except to overtake; some sections have no speed limit.
- Winter tyres mandatory in wintry conditions.
- Environmental (Umweltplakette) sticker required for low-emission city zones.
- 0.05% alcohol limit; zero for drivers under 21.
What to see when you arrive in Germany
- Neuschwanstein Castle
- the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin
- Cologne Cathedral
- the Black Forest
- Munich's Oktoberfest and Marienplatz
Common questions
01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Belgium to Germany?
Yes — Germany requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Germany recognises the Both format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between Belgium and Germany?
No. Both Belgium and Germany drive on the right.
03
How quickly can I get an IDP for this trip?
International Driver Licence issues your digital IDP in as fast as 8 minutes, so you can have it ready before you set off.
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