Brussels Taxi Reform: Benefits Unveiled

Brussels has embarked on an ambitious journey to modernise its taxi services, with a comprehensive reform of taxi regulations coming into full effect on 21 October 2022. This significant overhaul aims to create a more efficient, transparent, and user-centric urban transport system, benefiting both passengers and industry professionals alike. The changes are far-reaching, encompassing everything from how one becomes a taxi driver to the integration of digital platforms and a clearer pricing structure. This article delves into the core advantages of this reform, highlighting how it is shaping the future of taxi travel in the Belgian capital.

At its heart, the Brussels taxi reform seeks to deliver an improved service experience for users. This is achieved through a multi-faceted approach that includes adjusting the number of vehicles available to better meet demand, significantly simplifying the process for individuals aspiring to become taxi drivers, and streamlining administrative procedures across the board. Furthermore, a crucial new development is the formal regulation of booking intermediaries (platforms), which are now subject to stringent conditions to obtain official accreditation. Finally, the revised and unified pricing structure promises greater clarity and predictability for passengers, eliminating much of the previous ambiguity.

A Unified Vision for Brussels Taxis

One of the most foundational changes introduced by the reform is the unification of the taxi sector. Historically, Brussels operated with distinct categories, such as traditional station taxis and street taxis (formerly known as limousines or LVCs – 'Location de Voitures avec Chauffeur'). The new ordinance establishes a common basic status for these services, creating a more coherent and integrated transport landscape. This move simplifies regulation and fosters a more level playing field within the industry.

This unified approach means that whether you hail a taxi from a designated stand or book one through an app, the fundamental regulatory framework governing the service is now consistent. This clarity benefits both drivers, who operate under a single set of rules, and passengers, who can expect a more standardised service experience regardless of the taxi type or booking method. The long-term vision is a more harmonious and efficient taxi network that serves the diverse needs of Brussels' residents and visitors.

Streamlined Paths to Becoming a Brussels Taxi Driver

A significant barrier to entry for aspiring taxi drivers has been considerably lowered with the simplification of the capacity certificate acquisition process, effective from 10 November 2023. Previously, candidates often had to pass a rigorous qualification test or demonstrate two years of experience as an LVC driver. The reform abolishes these requirements, making the path to a taxi driving career more accessible while maintaining high standards of professionalism and safety.

To obtain a capacity certificate under the new regulations, candidates must now primarily submit specific documentation via the new regional electronic platform. These include:

• A criminal record extract (model 596.1-28 for taxi drivers) issued within the last three months, confirming the applicant meets morality conditions. This can be obtained via IRISbox for Brussels residents or through communal administrations.
• Proof of minimum A2 level proficiency in French and/or Dutch (e.g., language test certificates, diplomas).
• A copy of a driving licence (Belgian or foreign) for Category B vehicles, held for at least two years at the time of application.
• A valid medical fitness certificate, unless noted on the driving licence.
• For foreign nationals, a document authorising work in Belgium.
• A recent passport-sized photo with a white background.
• Payment of a €75 fee, processed directly through the regional platform upon finalising the application.

This simplified process reduces administrative burden and time, allowing qualified individuals to enter the profession more quickly. Furthermore, a periodic 'refresh' of the capacity certificate is required every five years, involving the submission of updated criminal record extracts, medical certificates, and a recent photo, ensuring drivers consistently meet the required standards. This streamlined yet thorough approach underscores the commitment to fostering a professional and reliable taxi workforce.

Empowering Operators: Modernised Management and Growth

The reform introduces a new regional electronic platform for transport professionals in Brussels, launched on 6 June 2023. This digital platform is a game-changer, offering a 24/7 online service for managing administrative files and procedures. Taxi operators, shared mobility providers, and drivers can now handle a myriad of tasks – from managing driver and vehicle data to requesting licenses and vignettes – all from the convenience of their computer or mobile device. This replaces many processes that previously required in-person visits or email exchanges, significantly improving efficiency and service quality.

For taxi operators, the platform facilitates:

• Authorisation and Vignette Management: Applying for new authorisations or increasing the number of exploitable vehicles (vignettes) is now done online. Authorisations are issued until a 'numerus clausus' (cap) is reached, after which applications enter a waiting list based on the date and time of completion.
• Vehicle Quotas: The reform sets minimum and maximum vehicle numbers for different taxi categories, including specific quotas for PRM (Persons with Reduced Mobility) adapted, zero-emission electric, and hydrogen vehicles. For instance, Station Taxis have a minimum of 1425 vehicles, with 150 designated for PRM, 140 for electric, and 25 for hydrogen. Street Taxis have a minimum of 1825, with specific allocations for PRM, electric, hydrogen, and Grand Luxe vehicles.
• Taxation: An annual tax of €600 per vehicle (for 2023, indexed annually) is levied, managed by Brussels Fiscalité.
• Operational Flexibility: Operators can easily declare drivers (DIMONA in/out), manage vehicle registrations, and even process changes in corporate status or the continued operation of an authorisation by a legal entity.

The platform also offers self-training materials (a syllabus) and support sessions for users, ensuring a smooth transition to the new digital system. This comprehensive digital shift represents a significant step towards modernising the administrative aspects of taxi operations, making them more agile and responsive.

Ensuring Fair Play: Regulating Booking Platforms

A crucial aspect of the reform is the introduction of strict regulations for booking intermediaries – any physical or legal person involved in promoting or connecting taxi services for remuneration. These platforms must now obtain an official accreditation, which is personal and non-transferable. This measure is designed to ensure a level playing field and enhance consumer protection in the evolving digital landscape of urban transport.

To gain accreditation, intermediaries must meet several conditions, including:

• Establishing a business unit in Belgium by the first day their platform is publicly available.
• Meeting morality conditions for managers and the company itself, verified through criminal record checks.
• Demonstrating solvency, confirmed by social security attestations showing no outstanding social debts.
• Proving professional qualification, typically by having the activity code for auxiliary land transport services (52.210) listed in their statutes or the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (BCE).

Accreditation can be suspended or withdrawn in cases of non-compliance, ensuring that platforms adhere to the high standards set by the new regulations. Furthermore, accredited intermediaries are subject to an annual tax of €20 per vehicle registered with their platform, and they must report these vehicles to the administration annually. This structured regulation ensures that all players in the taxi ecosystem operate under clear guidelines, fostering fair competition and safeguarding consumer interests.

Transparent and Predictable Fares: Driving Clarity

The reform has introduced a revised and significantly clearer pricing structure, ensuring transparency for both passengers and drivers. The new tariffs, fixed by the government decree of 6 October 2022, are automatically indexed annually from 1 January 2024, providing predictability in costs.

Comparative Fare Structure

Additionally, specific rates are set for ceremonial taxis (€90.00 for a minimum 3-hour period, plus €30.00 per extra hour, excluding VAT) and collective taxi services like Collecto (€6.00 per user per trip). This clear segmentation and predefined rates eliminate guesswork for customers, fostering trust and a smoother transaction process.

Prioritising Accessibility: Taxis for Everyone

A cornerstone of the Brussels taxi reform is its strong emphasis on accessibility for Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRM). The reform recognises the diverse needs within the PRM community, from temporary mobility issues (e.g., pregnant women, parents with strollers) to permanent disabilities (e.g., wheelchair users, visually impaired individuals).

Ordinary Taxis and PMR Passengers

Even standard taxis are expected to provide an inclusive service. Drivers are encouraged to communicate actively with PRM passengers to understand their specific needs. Key guidelines include:

• Visually Impaired: Announce your arrival clearly, ask how best to assist, ensure safety belts are fastened, describe the environment upon arrival, and offer an elbow for guidance if desired. Refusal to transport service animals is strictly prohibited.
• Hearing Impaired: Face the passenger to allow lip-reading, and offer a notepad and pen for written communication.
• Speech Difficulties: Provide a notepad and pen.
• Intellectual Disabilities: Announce arrival, ensure safe arrival at destination, and offer accompaniment if requested.
• Motor Disabilities (Foldable Wheelchairs): Ask how to assist with transfer from wheelchair to vehicle, safely fold and store the wheelchair in the boot, and help position it at the destination, ensuring the path is safe and accessible.

Mixed Taxis (PMR Adapted)

For individuals using electric or electronic wheelchairs, or those requiring more substantial assistance, Brussels has a dedicated fleet of 'mixed taxis'. These are monovolume vehicles specifically adapted with access ramps and lowered floors. Bookings for these vehicles are typically made via call centres or smartphone applications. Drivers of mixed taxis receive specific training on securing wheelchairs (using 4-point tie-downs) and passengers (3-point seatbelts). They are also advised to adopt a smooth, anticipatory driving style to ensure comfort, especially for passengers with back conditions. Importantly, no additional charges can be levied for journeys provided to PRM passengers.

TaxisBus Service

Complementing the regular taxi service is the TaxisBus, a minibus service operated by STIB drivers. A collaboration also exists between STIB and the Taxis Verts central service, allowing taxi drivers to be dispatched for certain PRM journeys as part of this convention. For these specific 'TaxiBus' trips, no payment is made on board; passengers who hold the relevant social security document and an STIB subscription pay a fixed €1.70 per journey. This integrated approach ensures that a wide range of transport solutions are available, making Brussels a more inclusive city for all its inhabitants and visitors.

Operational Excellence: Vehicle Management and Support

The reform also refines rules for vehicle registration and the use of reserve or replacement vehicles, ensuring continuous and compliant service.

• Vehicle Registration: Once an operator receives a vignette (authorisation), they have six months to register a compliant vehicle. Failure to do so within this timeframe results in the vignette becoming void. The process for initial registration or changing an existing vehicle on a vignette is managed through the regional platform, with associated fees.
• Reserve and Replacement Vehicles: Strict procedures are in place for using temporary vehicles. For 'reserve' vehicles (used when the primary vehicle is unavailable due to accident, breakdown, fire, or theft), operators must notify the administration via email *before* use, providing details of the cause, probable duration of unavailability, and the location of the main vehicle. 'Replacement' vehicles, typically rented, require similar notification along with additional documentation and a fee. In all cases, these temporary vehicles must be fully equipped for taxi service, carry relevant authorisation documents, display both the original and the temporary vignette, and be insured as taxis.

These detailed operational guidelines aim to minimise service disruption and maintain high safety and compliance standards across the fleet.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Brussels Taxi Reform

The Brussels taxi reform introduces many changes. Here are some answers to common questions:

When did the Brussels taxi reform officially come into effect?

The reform of taxi regulations in Brussels has been in force since 21 October 2022.

Who benefits most from this reform?

The reform aims to benefit both users and professionals. Users gain from improved service, clearer pricing, and enhanced accessibility. Professionals benefit from simplified administrative processes, a unified sector, and modern digital tools for management.

How has the process to become a taxi driver changed?

The process has been simplified significantly. As of 10 November 2023, aspiring drivers no longer need to pass a qualification test or prove two years of LVC experience. The focus is now on submitting required documents (criminal record, language proficiency, driving licence, medical certificate) via the regional online platform.

Are all types of taxi services affected by the reform?

Yes, the reform unifies the sector, establishing a common basic status for traditional station taxis and street taxis (formerly limousines/LVCs). It also introduces regulations for booking intermediaries and sets specific guidelines for ceremonial and collective taxi services.

What is the regional electronic platform for?

The regional electronic platform is a new online portal launched on 6 June 2023, designed for transport professionals in Brussels. It allows operators, drivers, and candidates to manage their administrative files, applications (e.g., licenses, vignettes, capacity certificates), and other procedures 24/7, reducing the need for in-person visits.

Are taxi fares now fixed, or can they still vary?

The reform has introduced a clearer tariff structure with defined minimums and, for booked fares, maximums. While unbooked station taxi fares are largely fixed, booked fares (for station and street taxis) have minimums and are capped at 200% of those minimums, allowing for some variation but ensuring predictability. All tariffs are indexed annually.

How does the reform improve services for Persons with Reduced Mobility (PMR)?

The reform places a strong emphasis on PMR accessibility. It provides clear guidelines for ordinary taxi drivers on how to assist passengers with various disabilities (visual, hearing, motor, intellectual). It also outlines the role of 'mixed taxis' which are specially adapted for wheelchair users, and integrates with the TaxisBus service, ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive transport offering with no extra charge for PMR passengers.

Conclusion

The Brussels taxi reform represents a forward-thinking initiative designed to bring the city's taxi services into the modern era. By fostering a modernisation of the sector through unification, simplification of administrative processes, the introduction of a powerful digital platform, and a renewed focus on transparency and accessibility, Brussels is setting a benchmark for urban transport. These changes promise a more efficient, user-friendly, and inclusive taxi experience for everyone, solidifying the taxi's role as a vital component of the city's dynamic mobility landscape.

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