2026: What’s new for drivers in Belgium, Luxembourg and France.

Belgium: no major upheavals, but a steady continuation of the transition

In Belgium, no major reforms came into effect in January 2026, but several small changes may impact drivers’ daily routines.

End of old seatbelt exemptions

To put an end to outdated or automatically extended exemptions, all medical exemptions from the mandatory seatbelt requirement dated before March 1, 2022, are no longer valid. Individuals must submit a new request to the FPS Mobility and Transport, accompanied by an updated medical certificate.

Stricter low-emission zone rules

The Brussels low‑emission zone (LEZ) has entered a more restrictive phase. Vehicles meeting Diesel Euro 5 standards, Petrol Euro 2 standards, as well as certain older LPG and CNG models, can no longer circulate in the Belgian capital. Nationwide, nearly 400,000 cars are affected. Before travelling to the region, double‑check your vehicle’s emission standard! After a short warning period, fines will be issued starting on March 1.

Most of the affected vehicles date from 2011–2016. But it is already clear that the transition will continue and become stricter. By 2030, diesel will be completely banned from Brussels and other cities. Perhaps it’s time to replace your car—if it no longer meets current standards—with a recent certified used vehicle that is cleaner? Most cars in the REPLAY fleet comply with the latest standards, helping you avoid future costs.

Luxembourg: new carpooling cameras and a slight fuel price increase

Carpooling: cameras installed on the A3

Since its introduction, the carpool lane on the A3 motorway—connecting the Grand Duchy’s capital to Thionville and Metz—has sparked considerable debate, and its theoretically limited use is often misused by hurried drivers. From now on, two dedicated cameras monitor proper use of this lane by buses, taxis, and private cars carrying multiple occupants.

Fuel price increase

On January 1, the carbon tax rose to €45 per tonne of CO₂, up from €40 in 2025. This increase results in a 1.5‑cent rise per litre at the pump. If your current car consumes a lot, consider replacing it with a more fuel‑efficient one! A recent used car equipped with a more efficient and cleaner engine means savings at the pump.

Klimabonus Mobilitéit extended

While awaiting the introduction of the third‑party payment scheme in 2027, the current Klimabonus subsidies have been extended. Electric used cars aged 3 years or more are eligible—under certain conditions—for a €1,500 purchase subsidy (currently reimbursed at a later date).

A recent certified used vehicle gives you an affordable electric car compatible with modern charging networks.

France: Safety, environmental taxation… and new temporary plates

New temporary and transit licence plates

Hard to miss. The most visible change in France concerns temporary registration plates (WW). They are now more easily identifiable thanks to their pink background, making police checks simpler. Moreover, the right-hand side of the plate now displays its validity date, replacing the former regional identifier.

Reinforced vehicle inspection

For several years, France has aimed to modernise its car fleet by tightening vehicle inspections. But don’t worry—you are not required to replace your car with a new one: a recent used car already meets all safety criteria.

Updated environmental penalties

Environmental criteria have also become stricter. As of January 1, 2026, the thresholds for penalties linked to CO₂ emissions and vehicle weight are now set at 108 g CO₂/km and 1,500 kg respectively. Choosing a latest‑generation vehicle—lighter and optimised to emit less carbon dioxide—can help you avoid penalties while still enjoying better performance.

2026: a year of transition

In every country, 2026 continues previous measures and supports Europe’s ecological transition, which aims to modernise and green the vehicle fleet. Whether driving in Belgium, Luxembourg, or France, choosing a recent used car allows you to comply with new standards or anticipate future changes. Opting for a vehicle inspected and certified by our teams also helps you avoid failed inspections, unexpected penalties, or administrative complications—while keeping control of your budget.

By purchasing a recent vehicle, you reduce your CO₂ emissions and improve your fuel consumption. You also gain several years of peace of mind regarding upcoming regulations and restrictions.