Most countries in Europe charge toll fees. This is known as a toll obligation. But what does that mean? Tolls are charged for the use of specific roads, tunnels, and bridges. The revenue generated from tolls is invested into the road network, enabling you to enjoy a smooth journey. The primary areas for investment include infrastructure, traffic management and safety, and environmental protection measures.
Tolls can be collected in different forms. These include the vignette obligation, the distance-based toll, and special toll routes.
With the vignette obligation, tolls are charged as a flat-rate fee and not based on kilometers driven. These fees vary depending on the duration of your trip. You purchase a digital vignette before your journey and choose from several validity periods. Depending on the vehicle class, the price of a vignette may vary. By purchasing the vignette, you make a one-time purchase that allows you to use all toll roads. The vignette obligation in Slovakia applies to vehicles up to 3.5 t GVW. Motorcycles are exempt from the vignette obligation, meaning you do not need to purchase a vignette or pay a distance-based toll for your motorcycle. More information about vehicle classes can be found in our guide.
Distance-based tolls apply in Slovakia to vehicles over 3.5 t GVW. Unlike the vignette, the distance-based toll is not a flat fee and varies based on road category, route length (number of kilometers), vehicle class (weight and number of axles), and CO₂ emission class. As a result, toll costs can vary significantly. The distance-based toll is collected using a transmitting device, the so-called On-Board Unit. This toll applies on expressways, highways, and certain selected sections of first- and second-class roads in Slovakia. By the way: Motorhomes, regardless of their weight, are not subject to the distance-based toll. That means even if your motorhome weighs more than 3.5 t GVW, you only need to purchase a vignette.
There are no special toll routes in Slovakia. However, there are special toll routes in other countries, such as Austria. If you would like to learn more about special tolls, even though they are not relevant for Slovakia, feel free to check out our guide.
With our free route planner, you can quickly and easily find out which toll products you need for your journey through Slovakia.
We wish you an enjoyable exploration of Slovakia and are happy to assist you with any further questions regarding toll regulations in Slovakia. Feel free to contact us via our email.
