Reflection: Driver’s license paper version, is it not better to anticipate 2033?

Since its introduction in 1967, the Belgian driving licence has undergone many changes. Since 2013, the paper driving licence model has been replaced by the driving licence model bank card

This model driving licence has an administrative validity of 10 years maximum.

By 2033, all old paper driving licence models must be replaced with bank card models.

It must be exchanged before this date if it is damaged, illegible or you no longer look like the photo.

Some expats have asked us about the value of voluntarily exchanging this pink paper version of the driver’s licence for a bank card type driving licence before 2033. The reflection is especially valid for holders of this paper licence over 70 years old because according to a draft directive of the European Commission, the administrative validity of the driving licence for persons aged 70 and over would be limited to 5 years. A medical examination and/or Highway Code refresher courses would be required for seniors who wish to retain the Highway Code. It is only a project and not a directive so nothing is certain but the exchange of paper permit for a card type permit bank makes a little more sense for some people.

Etienne Brehain 

UFBE delegate for Mauritius

Mail : ebrehain@intnet.mu

Phone :+ 230  5255 5444