Navigate Austria's Roads with Confidence

The Österreich Vignette is a mandatory toll sticker or digital pass required for all vehicles (including motorcycles) using Austria's motorways (Autobahnen) and expressways (Schnellstraßen). It signifies that you have paid the usage fee for these roads. This system is crucial for financing the upkeep and expansion of Austria's high-quality road infrastructure. Without a valid, properly affixed physical vignette or a registered digital vignette, you risk significant fines.

Vignette costs vary depending on vehicle type (motorcycle, passenger car, light commercial vehicle) and duration (10 days, 2 months, or annual). As of early 2024, typical costs for passenger cars (category B2) are approximately €11.50 for 10 days, €28.90 for 2 months, and €96.40 for a year. For the most current and precise pricing, especially before your journey, it is always recommended to check the official ASFINAG website, as rates can be adjusted annually.

The physical vignette can be purchased conveniently at most gas stations near the Austrian border, at Austrian post offices, various tobacco shops (Trafiken), and at automobile clubs like ÖAMTC or ARBÖ. For greater flexibility, the digital vignette can be bought online via the official ASFINAG website (shop.asfinag.at) or their 'Unterwegs' app. However, please be aware that for consumers purchasing online, a 18-day consumer protection waiting period applies from the date of purchase before the digital vignette becomes valid. This period does not apply to business purchases.

Driving on vignette-obligatory roads without a valid, properly affixed (or digitally registered) vignette will result in substantial on-the-spot fines. For passenger cars, these typically start from €120, and for motorcycles, from €65. If not paid immediately, the fines can escalate significantly, potentially reaching up to €3,000 in official proceedings. Automated camera systems and police patrols frequently check for valid vignettes, so adherence is strictly enforced.

Yes, in addition to the general vignette system for motorways and expressways, some specific tunnels, passes, and high-alpine roads require separate, additional tolls. These include, but are not limited to, the Arlberg Tunnel, Brenner Autobahn (A13), Karawanken Tunnel (A11), and the Felbertauern Road. These additional tolls are typically paid at designated toll plazas (Mautstellen) or can sometimes be paid digitally in advance via Flexi-Passes. Always check your planned route for specific sections that may incur these extra fees beyond the vignette to ensure a smooth and budget-friendly journey.