Driving during a driving ban
Driving During a Driving Ban
A serious offence with severe consequences
Driving while a driving ban is still in effect is one of the most serious traffic offences in Belgium.
The law considers this a fourth-degree offence, as you knowingly ignore a decision by the judge or the public prosecutor.
The consequences are extremely severe: high fines, long driving bans, and even imprisonment.
When are you committing an offence?
You commit an offence if you:
- drive during a temporary or definitive driving ban imposed by the judge or the public prosecutor
operate a vehicle while your licence has not yet been returned
drive a vehicle of a different category (e.g. truck, motorcycle) while the ban also covers that category
or use a foreign licence to circumvent the ban
Possible sanctions
Fine ranging from €1,600 to €16,000 (often much higher after surcharges)
A new driving ban from 3 months to 5 years, with possible permanent withdrawal
Prison sentence from 8 days to 2 years
Mandatory re-examinations, medical or psychological assessments
The police judge has little flexibility and usually imposes an effective penalty, especially in cases of recidivism.
A specialised lawyer can:
- verify whether the previous ban was correctly notified and enforceable
argue mitigating circumstances (confusion, urgent necessity, lack of clarity about duration)
negotiate suspension of the judgment or postponement of the ban
and help prevent a criminal record or imprisonment
Contact us for a free first consultation – we review your file and help limit the consequences.
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