Major traffic law changes coming to Hungary: here’s everything you need to know

Significant changes to Hungary’s Road Traffic Regulations (KRESZ) are expected to take effect starting in 2026, impacting all road users. The government is working alongside civil organisations and traffic experts to modernise the rules based on current transportation habits, emerging vehicle types, and evolving safety needs. While the final text isn’t official yet, several details have already been leaked.

New speed limits: Both higher and lower

Perhaps the most noticeable updates will be the revised speed limits. According to Blikk, certain highway sections, at the discretion of road authorities, could allow speeds up to 140 km/h (87 mph). Larger vehicles like buses, trucks, and trailers will see a unified limit of 90 km/h (56 mph) outside urban areas, while agricultural tractors no wider than 2.5 meters will be permitted to drive at speeds of up to 60 km/h (37 mph).

Stricter rules for new and elderly drivers

A key change will prohibit new license holders from driving high-performance vehicles exceeding 300 kilowatts (about 400 horsepower). This ban is expected to apply to powerful SUVs, some of which top 500 horsepower. The aim is to reduce accidents involving inexperienced drivers, who will only be allowed to operate such vehicles after two years of driving experience. Older drivers with diminished abilities may be required to place a special sticker on their cars to alert others on the road to exercise extra caution around them.

Updated rules for turn signals and hazard lights

Signal usage rules will also be refined: starting in 2026, drivers will be required to use their turn signals at least two seconds prior to beginning any manoeuvre. While this may be impractical in small roundabouts, notes vezess.hu, the change is designed to enhance road safety. Another long-standing informal practice will become official: drivers can use hazard lights to alert others of sudden dangers.