Motorway tolls are rising in Hungary – Here’s how it affects you!
From 1 January 2025, the price of motorway stickers in Hungary increased. According to the National Toll Payment Services Ltd., the cost of an annual vignette for a standard car will rise from HUF 57,260 (EUR 138) to HUF 59,210 (EUR 143).
Annual vignettes remain valid until 31 January of the following year, and new vignettes can be used starting from the first day of the year. According to Pénzcentrum, the price increase forms part of the regulation of the user-charge toll system, as stipulated in ITM Decree 45/2020 (28.XI.).
Rules for the e-vignette toll system
The e-vignette system permits the use of motorways, expressways, and trunk roads upon payment of a toll. This system applies to motorcycles, cars, lorries up to 3.5 tonnes, buses, and caravans. Motorists must ensure they have the correct e-vignette before travelling to avoid fines for not possessing a valid road permit.
The validity period starts from the exact day, hour, and minute of purchase. In good faith, if someone unintentionally enters a toll road without a vignette, they have 60 minutes to purchase one. Drivers are advised to double-check details such as their registration number, licence plate number, toll category, and validity period.
Types of e-vignette validity
Nationally valid vignettes are available for daily, weekly (10-day), monthly, and annual durations. Their validity is strictly defined; for example, an annual vignette is valid from the date of purchase until 31 January of the following year. County-specific vignettes allow the use of toll roads within a particular county for a year.
Motorway vignette prices vary by category. For instance:
- Category D1: Vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes and carrying up to seven passengers.
- Category D1M: Motorcycles.
- Category D2: Larger cars and smaller lorries.
- Category U: Trailers towed by D2 vehicles.
For 2025, the annual fees are as follows:
- D1M and D1 categories: HUF 59,210 (EUR 143).
- D2 category: HUF 84,040 (EUR 203).
- County stickers: HUF 6,890 (EUR 16), except for category D2, which will cost HUF 13,780 (EUR 33).
Failure to pay the toll incurs a surcharge. The basic surcharge is HUF 26,640 (EUR 64) if paid within 60 days and HUF 91,780 (EUR 222) if paid after 60 days. The surcharge differential for incorrect categories is HUF 14,900 (EUR 36) for payments within 60 days and HUF 47,180 (EUR 114) for later payments.
Other informations
Certain sections are toll-free, such as the M4 motorway between Vecsés and Budapest Liszt Ferenc International Airport, the M8 and M80 motorways, and specific stretches of the M9 motorway.
When paying tolls electronically, motorists must retain the confirmation message or voucher as proof of payment. It is recommended that this document be kept for three years after the expiration date, as it may be required in the event of a dispute.
The changing rules and pricing of motorway vignettes significantly impact the costs and responsibilities of road users. Awareness of the updated regulations is crucial for ensuring compliance and avoiding penalties.
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