Vehicle Categories in Hungary - Buying the Right E-Vignette
If you want to drive on the motorway in Hungary, then you need an e-vignette (e-matrica). This is because the motorway there is subject to tolls, and there are severe fines if you do not comply with the local regulations. That's why it's best to buy the vignette for Hungary online in advance. Please consider the applicable vehicle categories and the duration of your stay.
Vehicle categories for Hungarian toll roads
To be allowed to drive on toll roads in Hungary, you need an e-matrica for the correct vehicle category. When driving on the respective road, checks are automatically performed via cameras. So, you should always confirm that your data is correct before you buy a vignette. After all, there are five different categories that can be used to classify a vehicle. You should refer to the vehicle class stated in the vehicle registration document (section: "J").
D1 and D1M: Cars and motorcycles
Category D1 includes all cars in vehicle class M1 with a total weight of up to 3.5 tons and a maximum of 7 seats. Even if you are travelling with a trailer, category D1 applies. Smaller motor homes/camper vans (M1), as well as motorcycles with an annual vignette, are also included. D1M, on the other hand, is only for motorcycles with weekly or monthly vignettes.
D2: Commercial vehicles
Commercial vehicles that belong to the vehicle category N1 fall under category D2. These are all motor vehicles for the transport of goods with a permissible gross vehicle weight of up to 3.5 tons. This includes, for example, vans, such as the VW Crafter or Mercedes Sprinter. In addition, all vehicles that do not fit into any other category are also classified under D2.
B2: Buses for passenger transport
Buses for passenger transport belong to the vehicle category B2. According to the vehicle registration document, these are usually classified as M2 or M3 and can accommodate more than 9 people. Larger motorhomes may also classify as M2. The vehicle category M3, on the other hand, is only relevant to regular buses and practically never affects private travellers in Hungary.
U: Trailers belonging to vehicle categories D2 and B2 in Hungary
Trailers for cars belonging to category D1 do not need a separate e-matrica in Hungary. However, trailers for commercial vehicles and buses belonging to vehicle categories D2 and B2 are larger and heavier, so, in this case, a permit must be obtained for the trailer. In the vehicle registration certificate, this can be classified as either O1 or O2, which also requires a separate vignette.
When buying your vignette for Hungary, pay attention to the different vehicle categories
Whether you’re travelling in a car, motorcycle, or camper van, pay attention to the appropriate vehicle category when purchasing your e-matrica. Use the vehicle category in your registration certificate as a guide, as this makes categorisation very easy. Also, be sure to buy your vignette early to avoid careless mistakes when applying.
