Exploring Hungary: Driving A Rental Car From Austria

If you're planning to rent a car in Austria and drive it to Hungary, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Firstly, check the rental company's terms and conditions carefully, as some companies restrict driving their rental cars across borders. Additionally, certain car makes such as Audi, BMW, Volkswagen, and Mercedes may be prohibited from entering Hungary. It is also important to inform your rental company in advance if you intend to cross borders, as you may need to pay a cross-border fee and purchase additional insurance. An International Driving Permit and an International Driver's License are also typically required for renting a car in Europe and driving in Austria, respectively. Lastly, be aware of the different driving rules and regulations in Hungary, such as the zero-tolerance drink-and-drive limit and the requirement to have the vehicle's documents and your driving license with you at all times.

Driving a rental car from Austria to Hungary

Rental companies that allow cross-border travel from Austria to Hungary

When renting a car to drive from Austria to Hungary, it's important to be aware of the rental company's policies and any applicable fees or restrictions. Here is a list of rental companies that allow cross-border travel from Austria to Hungary, along with some additional information:

• Alamo: This company allows cross-border travel from Austria to Hungary, but it's important to note that not all vehicles are permitted to cross the border. Be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully.
• Thrifty: Thrifty is another option for cross-border travel between Austria and Hungary. However, additional fees and restrictions may apply, so be sure to check with the company directly.
• Avis: Avis is a standard international chain that operates in both Austria and Hungary, making it a good option for cross-border travel. Keep in mind that additional fees and restrictions may apply.
• Hertz: Hertz is a well-known rental company that operates in Europe. They specify the countries where their vehicles cannot be taken, and Hungary is not on that list. However, certain vehicle types, such as luxury cars, may have restrictions.
• SIXT: SIXT has a zoning system for cross-border travel in Europe. Hungary is included in Zone 2, which means you can take your rental car there if you pick it up in a Zone 1 or Zone 2 country.
• Budget: Budget is another company that allows cross-border travel from Austria to Hungary, but be sure to check for any applicable fees or restrictions.
• Europcar: This company operates in both Austria and Hungary, making it a viable option for cross-border travel. However, additional fees and restrictions may apply.
• National: National allows cross-border travel to Hungary when picking up a rental car in Hungary. However, always check the latest information as policies can change.
• Enterprise: Enterprise is a reliable option for cross-border travel from Austria to Hungary, but be aware of potential fees and restrictions, especially for luxury vehicles.

When renting a car for cross-border travel, it is essential to inform the rental company in advance and carefully review the terms and conditions. Additionally, be prepared for any applicable cross-border fees, which can vary depending on the company and vehicle type. Lastly, remember to obtain the necessary vignettes for driving on highways in Austria and Hungary.

Border crossing fees

When driving a rental car from Austria to Hungary, you will need to pay for a vignette to access the highway network in both countries. A vignette is a toll sticker that allows you to use the highways and is required in addition to any rental fees or insurance costs. Vignettes can be purchased at border crossings, gas stations near the border, or online in advance.

In Austria, both digital vignettes and traditional sticker vignettes are available. Rental companies in Austria charge around US$10 per day for a toll sticker. You can also purchase a vignette online or at a gas station for a duration of 10 days, 20 days, 2 months, or 4 months.

Hungary requires all motor vehicles to have a digital vignette (the E-Matrica) to access the highways. Hungarian expressways marked with "M" also require a vignette. You can purchase the E-Matrica online before your trip, or at a gas station when entering from another country. The cost of the Hungarian vignette is approximately €10 for 10 days.

It is important to note that you must have the vignette for the respective country before driving on their highways. Driving on the highway without a valid vignette can result in penalties.

In addition to the vignettes, there may be other costs associated with crossing the border, such as fuel costs and potential currency exchange fees when purchasing vignettes or fuel in a different country. It is also worth noting that some rental companies may charge an additional fee for cross-border travel, so it is essential to review the rental agreement and confirm that cross-border travel is permitted.

Rental car insurance

When renting a car, it is important to consider the insurance options available to you. While rental car insurance is not mandatory in Austria or Hungary, it is strongly recommended. Here are some things to keep in mind regarding rental car insurance when planning a road trip from Austria to Hungary:

In Austria, car rental companies typically offer a range of insurance options, and the regulations of the country where you rent the car will apply for the duration of your rental. Fire and third-party liability insurance is mandatory and included in all rentals. This type of insurance covers damage or injury to people or property outside of the rental car.

Additionally, Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and/or theft protection are often included in the rental rates at a discount. These coverages will have deductibles, which vary depending on the vehicle type. If you choose to purchase CDW or theft protection at the rental counter, the cost will depend on the car class. Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) and Super CDW, which reduces the collision deductible to zero, are also available at some rental companies.

In Hungary, car rental insurance options and regulations may differ from those in Austria. Similar to Austria, fire and third-party liability insurance is mandatory and included in all rentals. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and theft protection are typically included in the rental rates at a discount, and you can choose to purchase additional coverage if desired. CDW and theft protection reduce the deductible, which is the responsibility of the client, and the cost varies depending on the vehicle type. Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) is also available at the rental counter, and Super CDW may be offered to reduce the deductible further.

Cross-Border Travel:

When planning to drive a rental car from Austria to Hungary, it is essential to check the rental company's restrictions and fees for cross-border travel. Some companies may allow travel into specific countries with an additional fee, while others may have different programs for Eastern European countries. It is important to disclose your intended itinerary to the rental company to ensure that your plans are feasible with the car you plan to rent.

Additionally, keep in mind that you may need to purchase a toll sticker or e-vignette when driving on highways in both Austria and Hungary. These can usually be obtained at gas stations, border crossings, or online.

General Insurance Considerations:

When renting a car in either Austria or Hungary, it is recommended to have an International Drivers License or International Drivers Permit. While rental car insurance is essential, you may also want to consider the coverage offered by your credit card company or personal travel insurance. Review the specific insurance information provided on your rental confirmation voucher, and don't hesitate to contact the rental company or your insurance provider if you have any questions.

Driving rules in Hungary

Driving in Hungary has many differences compared to driving in the UK. Here is some essential information about driving rules in Hungary.

Documents and Equipment

You must carry the following documents and equipment with you when driving in Hungary:

• A valid, full UK driving licence (you must also be 18 or over)
• Your motor insurance certificate
• The V5 registration document for your own car or the hire car paperwork for a rental
• A GB or UK sticker for your car, unless it has EU number plates with the country code in a circle of stars on a blue background
• Headlamp converters (stickers for your headlights when driving on the right)
• A warning triangle inside the car in case of a breakdown

It is also recommended to have spare bulbs for your car's external lights and a fire extinguisher.

Rules of the Road

In Hungary, you:

• Drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left
• Must wear a seatbelt at all times when travelling on public roads
• Must use dipped headlights during the day outside built-up areas, even on motorways
• Must give way to vehicles on the right when approaching an intersection, except on main roads
• Must give way to cars on the left when on a motorway
• Must give way to forms of public transportation such as buses and trams
• Must not use your horn except in cases of extreme danger
• Must report any accidents involving a Hungarian citizen to the Association of Hungarian Insurance Companies

Speed Limits

The speed limits in Hungary are as follows:

• 50 km/h in built-up areas (with a 30 km/h limit becoming more common in city centres)
• 90-110 km/h on open roads
• 110 km/h on semi-motorways
• 130 km/h on motorways

Drink-Driving

Hungary has a zero-tolerance policy on drink-driving, with the limit set at 0.00%. Consuming any alcohol before driving risks a fine, suspension, or prison sentence.

Parking

Parking can be limited in built-up areas, with restricted zones signposted. Wheel clamps are used in Budapest, and if you park illegally or cause an obstruction, your vehicle may be towed away. Most of the main tourist areas have free parking.

Driving age requirements

When it comes to driving age requirements, the parameters will depend on whether you are renting a car in Austria or Hungary. In Austria, the minimum age to obtain a driving licence is 17 or 18 years for a car. To rent a car in Austria, you must be at least 18 years old and have held your licence for a year. Additionally, an International Driving Permit is required. Drivers under 25 may have to pay a young driver surcharge.

In Hungary, the minimum age to obtain a driving licence is 18 years for cars. However, it is unclear whether there are specific age requirements for renting a car in Hungary. It is always a good idea to check with the rental company about their specific age requirements and any additional fees or restrictions that may apply.

When driving in either country, it is important to be aware of the local rules and regulations. For example, in Hungary, the drink/drive limit is zero, and you must have the vehicle's documents and your driving licence with you at all times when driving. In Austria, traffic travels on the right, and a car will indicate its desire to pass by flashing its headlights. It is also important to note that some rental companies may have restrictions on cross-border travel, so be sure to inform the rental company of your intended itinerary.

Frequently asked questions