Hungary Driving Licence or Driver Permit

Hungary Driving Licence : Driving licences in Hungary are issued by the National Transport Authority. Here is an overview:

Types of Licences

  • Hungarian Driving Licence – For residents and citizens driving in Hungary.
  • International Driving Permit – For visitors driving in Hungary along with their native licence.

Minimum Driving Age

Licence CategoryMinimum Age
AM (moped)14 years
A1 (light motorcycle)16 years
B (car)17 years
C (truck)18 years
D (bus)24 years

Licence Categories

  • AM – Mopeds
  • A1 – Light motorcycles
  • A2 – Standard motorcycles
  • A – Unrestricted motorcycles
  • B – Cars
  • BE – Car + trailer
  • C – Trucks
  • CE – Truck + trailer
  • D – Buses
  • DE – Bus + trailer

Licence Validity

  • Car and motorcycle licences are valid for 10 years.
  • Professional licences are valid for 5 years.

Obtaining a New Hungary Driver’s Licence

To obtain your first Hungarian driving licence:

Eligibility

You must:

  • Be minimum required age for licence type.
  • Pass required exams.
  • Submit medical report and application.

Required Documents

  • Medical report
  • Theory test pass certificate
  • Practical test pass certificate
  • ID photos
  • ID document

Steps

  1. Get medical exam and obtain doctor’s report.
  2. Take theory test at National Transport Authority office.
  3. Upon passing, take practical driving test.
  4. Submit licence application, documents, and fees.
  5. New licence issued within 15 days if approved.

Renewing a Hungary Driver’s Licence

Hungarian driving licences must be renewed before expiration:

Renewal Period

  • Car and motorcycle licences expire after 10 years.
  • Professional licences expire after 5 years.

Renewal Process

  • Submit renewal application within 6 months of expiry.
  • Complete new medical exam and report.
  • May need to take theory exam again.
  • Pay renewal fees.
  • New licence card will be issued upon approval.

Expired Licences

  • Cannot drive with an expired licence in Hungary.
  • Licences expired over 1 year require reapplying as a new driver.

Replacing a Lost or Stolen Hungary Licence

If your Hungarian driving licence is lost or stolen:

Reporting

  • Report it to the police within 15 days. Get a police report.

Application

  • Apply for replacement at National Transport Authority office.
  • Submit police report, ID, photos, and fees.

Temporary Permit

  • You’ll receive a temporary driving permit valid for 30 days.
  • Carry the permit while driving until new licence arrives.

New Licence

  • A replacement plastic card will be issued within 15 working days.

Changing Your Address on a Hungary Licence

When moving within Hungary, you must update your driving licence address:

Notification

  • Notify the National Transport Authority of your new address within 30 days.

Application

  • Go to the Authority office and submit:
    • Completed address change application
    • Proof of new address (utility bill, lease, etc)
    • Current driving licence
    • Applicable fee

Updated Licence

  • Your plastic licence card will be printed with the updated address.
  • Make sure to change the address within 30 days of moving.

Taking the Driver’s Exam for a Hungary Licence

To qualify for your first Hungary driver’s licence, you’ll need to pass required exams:

Theory Test

  • Computer-based multiple choice exam on road rules and safety.
  • Taken at National Transport Authority testing centers.
  • Passing grade is 75%.

Practical Test

  • Assess your driving skills over test route with examiner.
  • Includes parking, 3-point turns, emergency stops, lane changes, etc.
  • Automatic fails for dangerous errors.
  • Passing results in licence approval.

Traffic Fines and Penalties in Hungary

Driving violations in Hungary can result in fines, demerit points, and licence suspension:

Common Offences and Fines

  • Speeding – Fines from 30,000 HUF
  • Running Red Light – 50,000 HUF
  • Using Mobile Phone While Driving – 30,000 HUF
  • No Valid Insurance – 120,000 – 300,000 HUF
  • Drunk Driving – 250,000 HUF

Serious Offences

  • Excessive Speeding (50+ km/h over)
    • Licence Suspension
    • Possible Vehicle Confiscation
  • Drunk Driving (over 0.08% BAC)
    • Licence Suspension – 1 year
    • Prison Time

Demerit Points System

  • Points for convictions. 12+ points = Suspension
  • Serious offences mean immediate suspension.

FAQs on Hungary Driving Licence

1. Do I need an International Driving Permit for Hungary?

Yes, non-EU citizens need an IDP to drive in Hungary along with their home licence.

2. How do I transfer my licence to a Hungarian licence?

You generally don’t need to transfer licences. Just use your current licence and get an IDP. For residency, you’ll need to apply for a Hungarian licence.

3. Can I drive in Hungary with an expired licence?

No, it is illegal to drive in Hungary with an expired driving licence, either Hungarian or foreign.

4. What vehicles can you drive with a B category licence?

The Hungarian B licence covers passenger cars up to 3,500 kg and minibuses up to 8 seats.

5. Is my Hungarian licence valid in other EU countries?

Yes, a Hungarian licence is valid for driving throughout the EU due to reciprocal agreements.

Conclusion

In summary, knowing Hungary’s driver’s licence rules and procedures is crucial for staying legal on Hungarian roads. Following the proper application, renewal, and update processes will help keep your privileges intact. Drive safely and responsibly!