Hungary is a popular destination for tourists, students, and expats alike, and foreign nationals who plan to drive in Hungary must have a valid driving license. This article will cover the rules and regulations, agreements in place for license exchange, procedures for obtaining and renewing driving licenses, recognition of International Driving Permits, and the penalty system for motoring offenses in relation to driving licenses in Hungary.
General Rules for Foreign Nationals in Hungary
Foreign nationals who hold a valid driving license from their country of origin can use their license in Hungary for up to one year. After one year, they must obtain a Hungarian driving license. This applies to all foreign nationals, regardless of the country of origin.
License Exchange Agreements in Hungary
Hungary has agreements in place with several countries that allow foreign nationals to exchange their driving license for a Hungarian one without taking a driving test. The countries that have such agreements with Hungary are the EU member states, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. Foreign nationals from countries that do not have an agreement with Hungary must take a driving test in Hungary to obtain a Hungarian driving license.
Obtaining and Renewing a Driving License in Hungary
To obtain a Hungarian driving license, foreign nationals must pass a written and practical driving test. The written test is conducted in Hungarian, but an interpreter can be provided for foreign nationals who do not speak the language. The cost of obtaining a driving license in Hungary is approximately HUF 18,000.
To renew a driving license, foreign nationals must provide the following documents:
- A valid passport and visa
- The original Hungarian driving license
- A medical certificate issued by a Hungarian doctor
- Proof of residency in Hungary
The renewal process is straightforward and usually takes no longer than a day. The cost of renewing a driving license in Hungary is approximately HUF 10,000.
Relevant Government Departments or Agencies
The Ministry of Innovation and Technology is the government agency responsible for regulating driving licenses and road safety in Hungary. Foreign nationals can obtain more information on driving licenses in Hungary by visiting the ministry’s website at https://nk.gov.hu/en.
International Driving Permit Recognition in Hungary
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recognized in Hungary. However, it is not a substitute for a valid driving license. Foreign nationals who plan to drive in Hungary must have a valid driving license and an IDP if they plan to drive for more than one year.
Penalty System for Motoring Offences
The penalty system for motoring offenses in Hungary is strict, and fines can be significant. The penalties for motoring offenses are as follows:
- Speeding: Fines range from HUF 15,000 to HUF 300,000, depending on the speed at which the offense was committed.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol: Fines range from HUF 30,000 to HUF 300,000, and the offender’s driving license can be suspended for up to three years.
- Driving without a valid license: Fines range from HUF 20,000 to HUF 100,000, and the offender’s vehicle can be impounded.
- Reckless driving: Fines range from HUF 50,000 to HUF 500,000, and the offender’s driving license can be suspended for up to three years.
It is worth noting that the penalties for motoring offenses in Hungary are subject to change, and foreign nationals are advised to keep themselves informed of any changes in the law.
In conclusion, foreign nationals who plan to drive in Hungary must have a valid driving license. Foreign nationals who hold a valid driving license from their country of origin can use their license in Hungary for up to one year. Hungary has agreements in place with several countries that allow foreign nationals to exchange their driving license for a Hungarian one without taking a driving test. To obtain a Hungarian driving license, foreign nationals must pass a written and practical driving test. The renewal process is straightforward and usually takes no longer than a day. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recognized in Hungary, but it is not a substitute for a valid driving license. The penalty system for motoring offenses in Hungary is strict, and fines can be significant. Foreign nationals should familiarize themselves with the local driving laws and regulations to avoid any legal issues while driving in Hungary.