A significant change has arrived for Budapest’s taxi sector as the Budapest Transport Centre (BKK) introduces a new mandatory digital system aimed at making Budapest taxi services safer, more transparent and more passenger-friendly.
From 1 June, all taxi service providers operating in the Hungarian capital must use the newly developed TaxiTrack application, which supplies real-time operational data to transport organisers and regulators.
New app required for all Budapest taxi operators
According to BKK, the TaxiTrack application was developed to help taxi companies comply with a regulation that came into force on 1 January 2025. Under the rules, taxi operators are required to provide real-time information about their vehicles, including their location and the start and end times of taximeter operation.
The new app, developed by BKK itself, automatically records and transmits this information, creating a live overview of taxi activity across the city.
TaxiTrack became available for download on 1 June, and its use is now compulsory for all licensed taxi service providers in Budapest.
Real-time GPS tracking and journey monitoring
The system continuously records GPS data and the current status of vehicles. It also logs when passenger transport begins and ends, providing transport authorities with a more accurate picture of taxi movements and demand patterns throughout the city.
BKK said the app will support more effective inspections while also helping to protect passengers and law-abiding taxi operators. The authority added that the digital solution simplifies administrative tasks for providers and contributes to safer and more transparent taxi services.
An additional feature of the system is its ability to temporarily store data on the device if network connectivity is lost, ensuring that information is not lost during transmission interruptions.
Better planning for Budapest’s taxi network
Beyond regulatory oversight, the data collected through TaxiTrack is expected to help BKK improve taxi infrastructure and services across the capital.
The transport authority said the information could assist in determining the locations of taxi ranks and identifying suitable short-term stopping zones where taxis can safely pick up and drop off passengers.
Officials also expect the data to provide a clearer understanding of travel demand patterns, potentially leading to a more balanced and predictable taxi service network in Budapest over the longer term.
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Grace period before penalties
Although the system became mandatory on 1 June, BKK said its introduction will begin with a grace period.
During the initial phase, authorities will focus on gathering operational experience and feedback rather than imposing immediate sanctions on operators. Budapest taxi drivers will also be encouraged to share their experiences with the app, helping BKK further refine and improve the system.
The transport authority says the ultimate goal is to create a safer, more transparent and more efficient taxi service for both residents and visitors to Budapest.
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