Belgium extends license rules for heavy electric vans

The Belgian government has extended a regulatory exception allowing drivers with a standard Category B license to operate heavier electric and hydrogen-powered commercial vans. Under a royal decree issued on June 24, 2026, the existing trial period has been extended until November 26, 2027.

To qualify, drivers must have held their standard license for at least two years. The regulation permits the operation of alternative-fuel delivery vehicles with a maximum authorized mass exceeding the traditional 3,500 kilogram limit, up to a maximum of 4,250 kilograms. This measure is designed to accommodate the additional weight of heavy battery packs and hydrogen fuel systems in zero-emission commercial vehicles.

This national extension serves as a bridge to the implementation of European Union Directive 2025/2205. Once the directive is formally transposed and becomes permanent EU law on November 26, 2027, the 4,250 kilogram exemption for experienced Category B license holders operating zero-emission freight vehicles will be harmonized across member states.