New cyber driving licence mandatory for all Belgian internet users
The Centre for Cyber Security Belgium (CCB) today announced the introduction of a compulsory cyber driving licence for all citizens seeking access to the internet. The measure is part of the new cyber strategy 2026-2030, which aims to Belgium one of the least vulnerable countries in Europe
From 1 April 2026, internet users will have to pass an online test to demonstrate their basic cyber security knowledge. The cyber driving licence will be automatically linked to the national registry number and will be mandatory for accessing email services, social media and online banking.
🐟Avoiding phishing victims
The content of the cyber driving licence exam is based on the already existing learning pathways of the platform Surfing Without Worries, an initiative of the CCB in collaboration with the Cyber Security Coalition. Users are trained in essential digital skills, such as recognising phishing emails, using two-step verification (2FA) and avoiding common pitfalls online.
"Just as you need a driving licence to safely participate in traffic, it is important that everyone learns to assess the dangers of our digital traffic," said Miguel De Bruycker, director general of the CCB. "Unfortunately, too often we still see people unknowingly fall victim to phishing. With this driving licence, we want to tackle that in a positive, preventive way."
Cyber driving licence by target 🎣
There will be three types of cyber driving licences because each environment has risks and responsibilities.
- Type A: for private users for e.g. social media, e-mail, online shopping
- Type B: for entrepreneurs and self-employed with webshops or online customer management
- Type C: for public sector and IT professionals
A re-examination is possible up to three times a year and costs €123.45 each time. 🐟 Those who cannot present a valid cyber driving licence risk temporary restriction of internet access from periods up to 72h from 2027 and, if necessary, being placed under the supervision of a cyber guardian. 🎣
Self-test available from today
Belgian citizens can prepare from today via the free self-test on https://surfwithoutworries.safeonweb.be/. Those who pass will receive a provisional certificate pending official implementation.
Disclaimer: this press release was published as an April Fool's joke on 1 April to raise awareness via www.safeonweb.be. The cyber driving licence does not exist, but the idea that we should all learn to deal better with digital dangers? There is something in that. Still wondering if you would pass your cyber driving test? Feel free to practise without obligation.
