This guide aims to answer all your inquiries and provide practical, straightforward advice for renting and driving a car in Hungary, ensuring a smooth experience throughout your stay.
Yes, Irish travelers can legally drive in Hungary with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.
Form of ID:
A valid passport is required for foreign renters.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
or
• EU/EEA Driving License
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted cards include Visa and Master.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be between 18 and 85 years old. Young drivers aged 18-25 incur a fee of US$ 21.24 per day. Drivers aged 76-85 incur a fee of US$ 30.68 per day.
Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.
Explore trusted global chains or innovative local options to find the best fit for your travel needs in Hungary.
Global Chain Companies
Local Brands

SIXT
Locations:
36Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers looking for quality vehicles at reasonable prices
Hertz
Locations:
62Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Hertz
Locations:
12Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Green Motion
Locations:
13Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Eco-conscious travelers and budget-friendly options
Europcar
Locations:
62Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Leisure travelers and business trips
Alamo
Locations:
7Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
KLASS WAGEN
Locations:
4Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking luxury and local service
Dryyve
Locations:
6Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking convenience and flexibility
Schiller
Locations:
13Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers
Wheego
Locations:
5Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Eco-conscious travelers and budget-friendly optionsChoosing the right rental car can make your travel more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
Perfect for city driving and short trips
Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
Comfortable for longer distances
Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
Ideal for families and group travel
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
Automatic transmission
Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in HU
Manual transmission
Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
Most Irish drivers prefer automatic for HU road trips
Consider your comfort level with local driving regulations and car types
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
Basic liability
Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
Theft protection
Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
Personal insurance
Check if your Irish insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Understand booking flexibility and fees
Free cancellation
Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
Change fees
Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
Travel insurance
Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
Unlimited mileage
Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
Limited mileage
Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Understand fuel requirements and costs
Full-to-Full
Return with same fuel level, most economical option
Full-to-Empty
Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
Same-to-Same
Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
Pre-purchase fuel options
Compare costs with local gas station prices
Quick Decision Guide
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Budapest, Debrecen, SzegedMid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Lake Balaton, Pécs, EgerConvertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Hungarian countryside, Tihany Abbey, Hortobágy National ParkCompare with Confidence on QEEQ
Hungary boasts a rich cultural heritage and captivating landscapes, from the historic streets of Budapest to the serene beauty of Lake Balaton. Whether you are exploring the vibrant city life or the tranquil countryside, renting a car allows you to experience Hungary's charm at your own pace.
When renting a car in Hungary, it is crucial to understand the insurance requirements to ensure a safe and worry-free trip. Basic insurance is mandatory, but additional coverage can protect against unforeseen expenses.
Covers damage to the rental car resulting from collision or theft.
Provides coverage in case of theft of the rental vehicle.
Covers damages or injuries caused to other people or their property.
Offers coverage for medical expenses for you and your passengers.
Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Hungary. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Smart planning and booking strategies can help Irish travelers save significantly on car rentals when traveling to Hungary.
Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Hungary.
Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.
Irish and Hungarian traffic rules vary in aspects such as driving side, alcohol tolerance, and parking regulations, while sharing common practices like mandatory seatbelt usage.
Side of Road
Drive on the right-hand side of the road
Drive on the left-hand side of the road
Alcohol Limits
0.00% BAC strictly enforced
0.05% BAC limit allowed
Parking Policies
Specific zones and permits required in cities
More lenient street parking rules
Mobile Phone Use
Hands-free allowed while driving
Hands-free allowed while driving
Seatbelt Laws
Mandatory for all occupants
Mandatory for all occupants
Speed Limits
Urban: 50 km/h, Rural: 90 km/h
Urban: 50 km/h, Rural: 80 km/h
Common questions for travelers from Ireland renting a car in Hungary