What are the amendments to the Belgian Road Code in 2025?
After almost 50 years, Belgium’s highway code is undergoing a major overhaul to better regulate new mobility needs. This update, proposed by Mobility Minister Georges Gilkinet (Ecolo), comes after extensive consultations with various stakeholders, including the Federal Public Service Mobility, Justice and the Regions.
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Why this revision?
The amendments to the Belgian Road Code in 2025 are necessary because our mobility has changed significantly. The new Road Code, now called the ‘code of public roads’, reflects this shift. The car is no longer the central focus, with more attention paid to pedestrians, cyclists and other ‘active’ road users. This is part of the broader ambition to make mobility safer and more sustainable.
What are the amendments?
Pedestrians
Pedestrians get more space and protection. Two-wheelers will be allowed to park on pavements only if 1.5 metres of free passage remains. Pedestrians are allowed to cross intersections diagonally at full green signals.
Cyclists
Cyclists are given more freedom to use the carriageway when there is no mandatory bike lane. Children under 11 are now also allowed to ride on the pavement. Cyclists are also allowed to ignore red lights and pass between stopped cars under certain conditions.
Mopeds and motorbikes
Mopeds are no longer allowed on cycle tracks at a maximum speed of 50 km/h. Motorbikes may use the emergency lane and may not park perpendicularly.
Cars
Alternate parking disappears, and motorists must ensure that all passengers wear seat belts. The use of dipped headlights becomes mandatory in low visibility, and it is forbidden to stop in places that block bus lanes, cycle paths or tram transit.
When will this take effect?
The amendments to the Belgian Road Code will be published in late 2024 and will come into force in autumn 2025. These changes are an important step towards safer and more inclusive mobility in Belgium.
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