In Germany, you have become accustomed to and adapted to the traffic rules. However, traffic rules are not the same in every country, and often there are traffic rules that do not exist at all in Germany. For example, speed limits vary, and the condition of the roads is different. The blood alcohol limit is also different, and where can you refuel? To help you travel safely and relaxed, you will find everything about traffic rules and conditions in Hungary in this article.
To avoid getting into trouble because of missing documents or not knowing the required items, we have summarized the most important aspects for you here. First, it is good to know that a German driver’s license is sufficient. You must, of course, have it with you, as well as the vehicle registration part I (or the vehicle certificate). The German license plate is sufficient as proof of valid car insurance, but we recommend bringing the IVK (International Insurance Card). This shows that your car is covered by liability insurance, and you can apply for the card free of charge from your car insurance provider. It is also important to check with your car insurer for sufficient coverage before the trip.
Carrying a reflective vest is mandatory for the driver, but in the event of an accident or breakdown, all persons must wear a vest when leaving the vehicle. Therefore, it is recommended to carry as many vests as there are people in the car. If you are also on the road as a cyclist or pedestrian, you must wear a reflective vest.
Whether you need a digital vignette in Hungary depends on which roads you will drive on during your trip. On Hungarian highways and express roads marked with an "M," all vehicles up to 3.5 t gross weight require an electronic vignette, which is automatically checked via the license plate. Vehicles over 3.5t gross weight are subject to tolls based on the route (HU-GO system) and cannot use a vignette.
The fees depend on the vehicle class your vehicle falls into. The following classes apply:
To cover the costs of maintaining highways and express roads in Hungary, a vignette requirement applies. The vignette is only available digitally in Hungary; there are no adhesive vignettes to attach to the windshield.
For more information and to easily purchase the appropriate vignette, visit here:
The blood alcohol limit is 0.0.
Year-round, dipped headlights must be used on highways and outside towns during the day. Also, at night, parking lights must be on when parking if street lighting is insufficient.
The use of speed camera or radar detectors in operational condition is prohibited in Hungary, just like in Germany.
There is no general winter tire requirement, but in winter road and weather conditions, the use of winter tires may be mandated. We recommend driving with winter tires in winter.
Snow chains may also be required by appropriate signage. Foreign drivers may be denied entry to Hungary without snow chains or may have the snow chains checked at the border. When using snow chains, a maximum speed of 50 km/h applies.
A special feature of fines in Hungary is that the police may seize the vehicle and retain the registration certificate until the traffic offender is able to pay the fine. This applies if the person responsible for the traffic violation cannot pay the fine immediately.
Overall, Hungary has a well-developed road and highway network, which is continuously modernized and renewed. However, the situation is a bit different on country roads. Typically, country roads cannot be driven as quickly as highways. They are often winding, narrow, and less well-maintained, which makes the drive less comfortable. Furthermore, these roads are not always well-lit and can be difficult to drive on at night or in bad weather. Traffic density may also vary, and in some areas, you might encounter slow tractors or other agricultural vehicles that could delay your journey. However, a positive aspect is that these roads often lead you through scenic landscapes and allow you to experience Hungarian rural life up close.
Gas stations are usually open from 6 AM to 8 PM, and along major travel routes and in larger cities, they are open 24 hours a day. Most gas stations accept credit cards, and you are allowed to carry up to 10 liters of reserve fuel.
The center of Hungary, like the gas stations, is also well-equipped with charging stations. In rural areas, the network is still being expanded, and a reliable supply cannot be guaranteed yet.
Therefore, you should plan your route carefully to avoid running out of fuel in the middle of nowhere.
In case of high air pollution, temporary driving bans may apply in Budapest for vehicles with Euro 0-4 emissions classes. These bans are usually announced in the media.
With a bit of preparation and our digital vignette, you should have no trouble driving in Hungary. Remember the traffic rules and drive carefully. The landscape waiting for you will make you overlook the sometimes challenging road conditions. If you are interested in other topics, feel free to explore our website.
