An investigation into Belgian driving schools revealed a series of "abuse" and violations of terms and conditions regulations, the Belgian consumer organisation, Test Achats, stated on Thursday. A complaint has been filed against 12 driving schools.
The investigation looked into the general terms and conditions of 13 driving schools. All were considered to have some form of problematic regulations.
The cancellation policies were a significant issue. While some driving schools can cancel lessons at the last minute, because of an instructor being ill for example, the same exceptions are not granted to learner drivers. They are often required to cancel at least seven days in advance.
"A doctor's note or even a death certificate is not accepted... illness and certainly death is of course force majeure for which learner drivers should not be punished," said Test Achats spokesperson, Laura Clays.
Additionally, 12 out of the 13 driving schools did not follow the requirement to provide a free reminder in the event of a late payment. This rule has been in force since September 2023. In the terms and conditions of five of the schools, it was stated that prices and terms could be unilaterally changed, which is illegal.
Three of the driving schools, despite being a training institution, have terms that read that they are "not responsible for the correctness of the information they provide."
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The findings of the investigation speak to a larger issue. "The fact that such widespread abuses are found indicates a dysfunction in the sector. More inspections are needed, and why not even specific guidelines?" said Clays.
Test Achats wrote to all the investigated driving schools following the results, but only one amended their terms and conditions. A formal complaint was filed against the rest of the schools with the Economic Inspection Authority.
"We have also sent a number of proposals to the Ministry of Mobility and the federal and regional ministers of Mobility, to inform them of our results and the need to better protect learner drivers," Clays concluded.
