Cross-border route
Germany Belgium
Germany 
BelgiumDriving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Germany into Belgium, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Belgium 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
FromGermany
ToBelgium
IDP in BelgiumRequired
Accepted formatBoth
Driving sideright (no change)
Currency in BelgiumEUR
Germany → Belgium
Crossing the border
Germany and Belgium 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 Belgium
- Priority to the right at unmarked junctions.
- Reflective vest and warning triangle required.
- 0.05% alcohol limit.
- Low-emission zones in Brussels, Antwerp and Ghent.
What to see when you arrive in Belgium
- the Grand-Place in Brussels
- the medieval canals of Bruges
- the historic centre of Ghent
- Antwerp's cathedral and diamond quarter
- the Atomium
Common questions
01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Germany to Belgium?
Yes — Belgium requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Belgium recognises the Both format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between Germany and Belgium?
No. Both Germany and Belgium 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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