Traffic rules in Hungary to change drastically: speed limits, driving practice with family, zipper merge

Hungary is set to introduce significant updates to its traffic regulations, aiming to improve road safety and adapt to modern transport habits. The proposed changes to traffic rules in Hungary will impact everyone, including motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, and electric scooter users, with new speed limits, revised merging rules, and updated driver education requirements. While the draft is still under discussion, these reforms seek to create a clearer, more efficient traffic system across the country.

Traffic rules in Hungary to change soon

As Telex writes, Hungary is considering significant updates to its traffic regulations, impacting pedestrians, cyclists, electric scooter users, motorists, and school transport. Based on consultations with transport experts and organisations, a government document proposes replacing the outdated traffic code with clearer, more modern regulations. While fundamental traffic rules in Hungary, such as signage and traffic lights, will remain unchanged, the new framework aims to reflect current road habits, particularly for cyclists and electric scooters. Proposed safety measures include banning pedestrians from using mobile phones at crossings, requiring children under three to be seated on public transport outside residential areas, and introducing 30 km/h speed limits in school zones to enhance road safety.

Increased speed limits

Proposed changes to traffic rules in Hungary could significantly impact motorists, with speed limit adjustments on various road types. The new regulations may allow speed limits of up to 140 km/h on certain motorway sections, while buses, trucks, and trailers could be permitted to travel at 90 km/h outside built-up areas. Cyclists would also face new speed limits depending on road type, and trams on closed tracks could operate at 70 km/h.

Zipper merge

In addition, the zipper merge principle could become mandatory, requiring drivers to allow merging traffic from closed lanes, promoting smoother traffic flow. Another key proposal includes compulsory dipped-beam headlights for cars without daytime running lights, even within residential areas, enhancing visibility and road safety.

Driver education modernised

Driver education reforms are also on the table, including the potential introduction of simulator-based training to replace up to six of the 29 required practical driving hours, reducing costs and improving safety. There is also ongoing discussion about allowing motorcycles and scooters up to 125cm³ to be ridden with a standard B-category driving licence, with a slight speed limit increase for mopeds.

A proposed family driving practice programme would allow learner drivers to train with a relative after completing their compulsory hours, though strict conditions would apply. Furthermore, private roads, underground garages, and car parks could be subject to traffic regulations, helping authorities address safety concerns in these areas. These changes would mean a much-needed modernisation of Hungary’s outdated traffic rules.

Changes for cyclists and motorcyclists

The proposed revisions to traffic rules in Hungary include several key changes to improve road safety and traffic flow. New cycle lanes, pedestrian zones, and updated traffic signs are set to enhance urban mobility. Cyclists would be allowed to pass stationary or slow-moving cars from the right, while motorcyclists could manoeuvre between lanes, provided they adhere to a 25 km/h speed limit. Additionally, the use of dipped-beam headlights for cars without daytime running lights may become mandatory in residential areas to improve visibility. While the draft is still under discussion, these changes aim to modernise the traffic rules in Hungary and will only take effect once the final version is approved.

Read also:

• BREAKING – Budapest airport shuttle to be much cheaper and will touch a new downtown station
• Hungary to expand M1 motorway to 6 lanes in historic EUR 2 billion project

Featured image: depositphotos.com