Step 1 – Sign the Contract
Whether you’re purchasing for personal or official use, this guide walks you through every stage of the ACB diplomatic vehicle purchase process — from contract signature to delivery.
- Sign the sales contract
- Pay a 10% deposit
- Submit the following documents:
- Proof of employment at a European institution or embassy
- Copy of your ID card or diplomatic passport
Step 2 – Wait for Your Vehicle
Lead times vary depending on availability:
- Stock vehicles: approximately 3 weeks
- Made-to-order vehicles: up to 6 months (depending on model)
Step 3 – Register Your Vehicle
Choose the registration route that applies to your situation.
3.1 Standard Registration (No VAT Exemption)
- Pay for the vehicle inclusive of VAT
- Submit your registration application
- Receive your plates within approximately 48 hours
3.2 Diplomatic Registration (VAT Exemption Applies)
- Collect the following documents in person from our Zaventem dealership:
- Original invoice + VAT copy (×2)
- Registration application
- Certificate of Conformity
- Submit these documents to your protocol office to obtain:
- Your diplomatic plate and registration
- Document 151
Step 4 – Take Delivery of Your Vehicle
Your vehicle will be delivered at one of our ACB dealerships. Before delivery, please ensure you have:
- The original Certificate 151, completed and signed by the Belgian Ministry of Finance
- Proof of vehicle registration in the diplomatic buyer’s name
Official Use Purchases
The procedure follows the same steps as a private purchase, with two key differences:
- VAT exemption is applied automatically
- You must provide an official use attestation — a document issued by the dealership confirming the vehicle will be used for official missions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to visit the dealership in person? Yes — for diplomatic plate registration, documents must be collected in person from our Zaventem location.
How long does the full process take? For stock vehicles with diplomatic plates, allow approximately 7 to 9 weeks from contract signing to delivery.
Who handles the VAT exemption? Your Protocol office processes the exemption as part of the diplomatic registration procedure.
For further information, contact your ACB sales representative.