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Provisional License: M18 vs M36

Passed your theory? Then apply for your provisional license within 3 years. You choose between learning with a supervisor (M36) or practicing independently (M18).

Mathieu, instructor at eTheory Mathieu, instructor June 2026

Passed your car theory exam? You will receive a certificate that remains valid for 3 years, and within that period, you can apply for your provisional license at your municipality. You have the choice between two models: M36, which allows you to learn to drive with a supervisor (from 17 years), or M18, which allows you to practice independently (from 18 years, after 20 hours of driving lessons).

Which model do you choose?

Model 36 months (M36), with supervisor can be applied for from 17 years. You learn to drive with one or a maximum of two chosen supervisors who meet the requirements. Only your supervisor(s) may accompany you. In Flanders, your supervisor must have completed a 3-hour training course in advance (the supervisor certificate, valid for 10 years).
Model 18 months (M18), without supervisor can be applied for from 18 years, and only after you have completed at least 20 hours of practical lessons at an accredited driving school (you will then receive a competency certificate). With this document, you may practice independently on public roads.
For both models, there is a driving ban in Flanders at night, from 10 PM to 6 AM, on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and (the eve of) a public holiday.

The rules per region

The practical training varies greatly by region, and the rules change regularly. This is the current situation:

FlandersBrusselsWallonia
Minimum practice period5 months9 months (or 6 with the intermediate formula)3 months
Mandatory course beforehandNoneFirst aid courseFirst aid course (+ logbook)
After your licenseMandatory follow-up moment (6 to 9 months after issuance, approximately 122 euros)No follow-up momentNo follow-up moment

Always check the exact conditions with your municipality or an accredited driving school, especially outside Flanders.

How do you apply at the municipality?

Make an appointment at the civil affairs department of your municipality. Bring the completed and signed application form from the exam center, along with your identity card and a payment card. The cost is around 25 euros and varies slightly by municipality. After a few working days, you can pick up your provisional license and officially start practicing.

Frequently Asked Questions

With M36, you learn to drive with a supervisor (from 17 years). With M18, you practice independently (from 18 years, after 20 hours of driving lessons).

In Flanders, at least 5 months, in Wallonia at least 3, in Brussels usually 9 (or 6 with the intermediate formula).

About 25 euros at your municipality.

Keep your theory sharp until your practical exam

The step from theory to practice is significant. Refresh your knowledge with a free theory exam according to the official GOCA standards.

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Read more: How long is it valid? · How does it proceed? · The eye test

Last updated: June 2026 · Content verified by Mathieu, instructor · Source: GOCA and the Belgian Highway Code

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