No, studded tires are prohibited nationwide in Hungary under the 2021 Road Traffic Act (Act XXXI of 2021), enforced by the National Transport Authority (NKFI). The ban applies year-round to all vehicle categories, with no seasonal exceptions. Violations incur fines up to HUF 500,000 (€1,300) and potential vehicle impoundment. Exemptions require special permits from the NKFI, granted only for emergency or military vehicles under strict conditions.
Key Regulations for Studded Tires in Hungary
- Absolute Ban: Act XXXI of 2021 explicitly bans studded tires on public roads, with no seasonal or regional exceptions.
- Enforcement Body: The National Transport Authority (NKFI) oversees compliance, conducting random roadside checks and imposing penalties.
- Permit Exceptions: Only emergency services, military, or specialized snow-clearing vehicles may obtain NKFI-issued permits, subject to rigorous technical and operational reviews.
Recent 2026 amendments to the Traffic Decree (Government Decree 32/2021) reinforce penalties, introducing mandatory tire inspections at border crossings for foreign-registered vehicles. The NKFI’s 2025 technical guidelines further clarify that studded tires, even with minimal stud protrusion, are classified as non-compliant. Local municipalities may impose additional restrictions in urban zones, though these align with national standards.