Cross-border route
Austria Hungary
Driving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Austria into Hungary, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Hungary expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the Both format. Both countries drive on the right, so there is no change of driving side at the border. The A4/M1 motorway crosses near Nickelsdorf toward Budapest.
Last reviewed June 2026
Route at a glance
FromAustria
ToHungary
IDP in HungaryRequired
Accepted formatBoth
Driving sideright (no change)
Currency in HungaryHUF
Austria → Hungary
Crossing the border
The A4/M1 motorway crosses near Nickelsdorf toward Budapest.
Driving rules in Hungary
- Zero-tolerance alcohol limit (0.0%).
- Motorway e-vignette required.
- Headlights on outside built-up areas.
- Reflective vest required when leaving a broken-down car.
What to see when you arrive in Hungary
- the Hungarian Parliament and Buda Castle in Budapest
- the thermal baths of Budapest
- Lake Balaton
- the Danube Bend
- the historic spa town of Eger
Common questions
01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Austria to Hungary?
Yes — Hungary requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Hungary recognises the Both format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between Austria and Hungary?
No. Both Austria and Hungary drive on the right.
03
How quickly can I get an IDP for this trip?
International Driver Licence issues your digital IDP in as fast as 8 minutes, so you can have it ready before you set off.
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