Registering Your Car in Belgium: A Comprehensive Guide

Navigating the process of registering a vehicle in Belgium might seem daunting, especially if you're new to the country or importing a car from abroad. However, with a clear understanding of the procedures and the key organisations involved, you can ensure a smooth and efficient registration. Belgium's primary authority for vehicle registration is the Direction pour l'Immatriculation des Véhicules (DIV). This government department is responsible for assigning registration numbers and issuing certificates, making it your main point of contact throughout the process.

The Belgian Vehicle Registration Process

The core of vehicle registration in Belgium revolves around obtaining a registration certificate, known locally as a Certificat d'immatriculation (CIM) or Kentekenbewijs. You'll need this crucial document for several reasons:

• Driving your vehicle legally in Belgium for extended periods.
• Transferring ownership of your vehicle.
• Responding to requests from law enforcement during routine checks, traffic offences, or accidents.

While there are exceptions, such as short-term stays or vehicles owned by foreign employers, generally, any vehicle intended for use in Belgium must be registered.

Applying for Registration: Your Options

When it comes to initiating the registration process, you have two primary avenues:

1. Via Your Insurer (Recommended)

This is widely considered the most straightforward and quickest method. Your insurance intermediary can submit the registration request online using the dedicated WebDIV application. This often streamlines the process, as they are familiar with the requirements and can guide you through any necessary steps.

2. Directly with the DIV

If you prefer not to go through your insurer, you can apply directly to the DIV. This typically involves completing a specific pink registration application form. You can then submit this form either by post or by visiting one of the DIV's counters.

Regardless of the method chosen, you will need to provide essential information:

• Your Contact Details: Full name, surname, and address.
• Vehicle Characteristics: Make, model, chassis number (VIN), and any other relevant details.
• Proof of Insurance: A valid third-party motor insurance policy is mandatory.

Personalised Number Plates: A Touch of Uniqueness

Belgium offers the option to request a personalised number plate, allowing for a unique combination of letters and numbers, up to a maximum of eight characters. This popular service, however, comes with an additional cost.

To apply for a personalised plate:

1. Choose Your Combination: Select your desired sequence of letters and numbers. Be aware that certain combinations are prohibited, including offensive terms or brand names.
2. Check Availability: Crucially, before submitting your application, check if your chosen combination is available on the DIV website. This avoids disappointment later in the process.
3. Make Your Request: You can apply online through the DIV website or, if offered, via your insurer or broker.
4. Pay the Fee: The cost for a personalised Belgian number plate is €1,000, payable in addition to the standard registration fees.

It's important to note that you must commit to a single combination when making your application.

Costs Associated with Registration

The fees for registering a vehicle in Belgium are as follows:

These fees are typically paid upon delivery of your new plate and certificate, usually via bpost. Payment can be made in cash or electronically. It's vital to remember that these charges exclude the registration tax (TMC) and the annual circulation tax. These taxes vary based on your vehicle's specifications and your region of residence within Belgium.

Registering a Car Imported into Belgium

If you're moving to Belgium and bringing your car with you, you have a legal obligation to register it with a Belgian number plate within six months of establishing your residency. The process involves several key steps:

1. Customs Declaration

Upon arrival in Belgium, you must declare your imported vehicle at a customs office. You'll need to present:

• The purchase invoice, detailing the chassis number and price (VAT excluded for new vehicles).
• The original registration certificate from the country of origin.
• Any other relevant documents that might assist in case of discrepancies.

2. VAT Considerations

VAT is payable on new cars declared to Belgian customs. For second-hand vehicles:

• If the seller is a private individual, no VAT is payable in Belgium.
• If the seller is a professional, you will have paid VAT in the country of purchase.

A vehicle is considered 'new' if it was delivered less than six months prior to registration or has fewer than 6,000 km. It's 'second-hand' if delivery occurred more than six months after registration or it has travelled over 6,000 km.

3. Technical Inspection (Roadworthiness Test)

Your imported vehicle must undergo a technical inspection at an approved centre in Belgium. You'll need to provide:

• The customs sticker (e705), issued at the customs office.
• The foreign registration certificate (often referred to as the 'grey card').

For the inspection, your vehicle must have valid plates. These can be valid foreign transit plates, commercial number plates, or the old registration plates if they belong to the vehicle and are still valid.

Exception: Simplified Technical Inspection

Vehicles that have passed a full technical inspection within the last two months (either in Belgium or another EU country) before the sale may be eligible for a simplified or 'visual' inspection. However, a full inspection might still be required if any issues are identified during the visual check.

4. Insurance and DIV Registration

After completing customs and technical inspection formalities, you must obtain a valid civil liability insurance policy for your vehicle. Subsequently, you can proceed with registering your car with the DIV, submitting the pink application form and the original registration certificate.

Registering a Vehicle Purchased in Belgium

If you purchase a car within Belgium, the process differs slightly depending on whether it's a new or used vehicle.

Used Vehicle Purchased in Belgium

For a used car already registered in Belgium, you will generally need to apply for a new registration:

• Complete the application form.
• Provide a copy of the vehicle's Certificate of Conformity.
• Attach a copy of a valid technical inspection certificate (valid for 2 months).
• Show proof of valid insurance.
• Include a copy of your identity card.

Important Note: If the previous owner had a personalised plate, you will not be able to retain it; a new plate will be issued.

New Vehicle Purchased in Belgium

For brand-new vehicles, the procedure is simpler:

• A roadworthiness test is not required.
• You must provide the vehicle's European Certificate of Conformity.
• Complete the application form.
• Present valid proof of insurance.
• Enclose a copy of your identity card.

In both scenarios (new or used vehicle purchased in Belgium), utilising your insurer's services via the WebDIV system can significantly expedite the process.

Registration for Non-Residents

Belgium has specific regulations for non-residents wishing to register vehicles:

• EU Citizens: EU citizens can register their vehicles in Belgium if they reside there for more than six months per year, even without official domicile.
• Cross-border Workers: Individuals commuting to work in Belgium from another country cannot register their private vehicles in Belgium.
• Company Cars: If you are employed by a Belgian company and are provided with a company car, it must be registered in Belgium, irrespective of your country of residence.
• Foreign Students: Students temporarily residing in Belgium may register their vehicles under specific conditions.

It's important to note that Belgium does not permit non-residents to register private vehicles solely based on professional activity in the country.

Contacting the DIV

Should you have any queries or require further clarification, the Vehicle Registration Department (DIV) can be contacted:

Address:
Vehicle Registration Department (DIV)
City Atrium
Rue du Progrès 56
1210 Brussels

Telephone: 02 277 30 50

Email: [email protected]

It is always advisable to consult the official DIV website for the most up-to-date information, as procedures and regulations can change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a registration certificate to drive in Belgium?

Yes, a registration certificate (Certificat d'immatriculation / Kentekenbewijs) is essential to drive your vehicle legally in Belgium.

What documents are required for car registration?

The exact documents depend on whether the car is imported or purchased locally, and if it's new or used. Generally, you'll need your identification, proof of insurance, the purchase invoice, the original registration certificate, and potentially a Certificate of Conformity and a technical inspection certificate.

Can I keep my old number plates when registering a car in Belgium?

If you are registering a used car purchased in Belgium, and the previous owner had a personalised plate, you will not be able to keep it. A new plate will be issued.

What is the cost of a standard number plate in Belgium?

The standard cost for a number plate is €30, plus €26 for the registration certificate, totalling €56, excluding other taxes.

How long do I have to register a car after moving to Belgium?

You have six months from establishing residency in Belgium to register your vehicle with a Belgian number plate.