If you're planning to rent a car in Hungary and explore the beautiful landscapes of the country, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the traffic rules, fines, and road police.
Traffic Rules in Hungary
- In Hungary, vehicles drive on the right side of the road.
- Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, both in the front and rear seats.
- Using mobile phones while driving is strictly prohibited, except for hands-free devices.
- Children under 150 cm (4'11") must be seated in an appropriate child restraint system.
- Headlights must be switched on at all times, even during the day.
- The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.0%; any amount of alcohol consumption before driving is illegal.
Speed limits in Hungary
The speed limits on different types of roads in Hungary are as follows:
- Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph)
- Non-urban roads: 90 km/h (56 mph)
- Expressways: 110 km/h (68 mph)
- Motorways: 130 km/h (81 mph)
Fines in Hungary
Fines for various traffic violations in Hungary are as follows (in HUF and EUR equivalent):
- Speeding: 5,000-300,000 HUF (15-900 EUR)
- Not wearing a seat belt: 30,000 HUF (90 EUR)
- Using a mobile phone while driving: 30,000 HUF (90 EUR)
- Parking violations: 10,000-100,000 HUF (30-300 EUR)
- Running a red light: 50,000 HUF (150 EUR)
- Drunk driving: 100,000-300,000 HUF (300-900 EUR)
- Children without child seats: 30,000 HUF (90 EUR)
Fines can be paid in cash to the police officer on the spot, or you can request to pay later at a post office or bank.
Road Police in Hungary
Traffic surveillance cameras are common on Hungarian roads, so it's crucial to obey speed limits and other traffic rules. Road police frequently monitor roads for violations. If stopped by the police, remain calm, and provide your driver's license, registration, and insurance documents. To call the police in case of an accident or emergency, dial 112.
