Traffic rules in Slovakia differ from those in Germany. The condition of the roads and speed limits, for example, show significant differences compared to Germany.
To help you prepare well for the conditions in Slovakia, here are the general traffic rules and important information for driving in Slovakia.
The German driver’s license is sufficient; however, if you have an older license, you should obtain an international driver’s license or a new national license. Drivers who are not the vehicle's owner must carry a power of attorney from the owner. The registration certificate Part I must also be carried.
A German license plate suffices as proof of valid car liability insurance, but we recommend carrying the IVK (International Insurance Card). This shows that your car is liability insured, and you can request the card for free from your car insurer. Additionally, be sure to check with your car insurer before traveling to ensure adequate insurance coverage.
Carrying a safety vest is mandatory for the driver, but in the event of an accident or breakdown, all passengers must wear a safety vest when exiting the vehicle. Therefore, it is advisable to carry as many safety vests as there are people in the car.
A warning triangle and a first aid kit must also be carried. Cars registered in Slovakia must carry a spare tire.
All highways and expressways require a vignette for vehicles up to 3.5 t, as well as for camper vans, regardless of weight. Motorcycles are exempt. Roads and sections marked “BEZ UHRADY” are toll-free. The marking is indicated on a road sign.
If you choose to purchase an electronic or digital vignette, the vehicle's license plate and the country of registration will be stored. You should verify the purchase receipt for accuracy, as you will need to present it during a check.
For vehicles over 3.5 t, excluding camper vans, a distance-based toll is charged. This works with the help of an on-board unit. This applies to highways, expressways, and some selected sections.
You can purchase vignettes on-site or conveniently online here. This way, you’re covered before your holiday.
For 30 m before railway crossings and when crossing tracks, the limit is 30 km/h.
Of course, there are some rules that are the same in Germany and Slovakia. However, there are also significant differences that you need to pay attention to. It is important to adhere to and accept the traffic rules to avoid stressful situations and accidents.
The use and carrying of radar detectors in an operational state is prohibited. The use of mobile phones is banned while the engine is running.
The blood alcohol limit is 0.0. Violations are strictly penalized in Slovakia and can result in driving bans or even imprisonment. The blood alcohol limit also applies to cyclists.
When parking, ensure that a lane at least 3 m wide remains free in each direction. Between a parked vehicle and a tram, it must even be 3.5 m.
On all roads, it is mandatory to use low beams or daytime running lights year-round during the day.
Vehicles up to 3.5 t total weight must be equipped with winter tires (M+S marking) or all-season tires during wintry conditions. Vehicles over 3.5 t total weight must have winter tires from November 15 to March 31 of the following year, regardless of weather conditions. The minimum tread depth must be at least 3 mm. Snow chains may be fitted to all vehicles when there is snow on the roads.
Since Slovakia is two-thirds mountainous, most inhabited areas of the country are located in valleys. These are connected by a well-developed network of highways.
However, you should drive cautiously on secondary roads and in mountainous areas, as there can be roads with potholes and lower quality. So if you plan an excursion into the beautiful mountain landscape, it’s best to familiarize yourself with the roads there to fully enjoy the scenic views.
Gas stations can be found in most parts of Slovakia. In mountainous areas and the countryside, they are not as frequent as in cities and on highways. This means you should ideally fill up beforehand if you plan to head into the mountains.
You can charge your vehicle in western Slovakia, especially in the vicinity of the capital, Bratislava. In the east, charging stations are scarce, so trips with electric cars should be well-planned.
As of now, hydrogen refueling stations are only available around Bratislava.
Although you can drive a car in Slovakia from the age of 18, a rental car can only be rented from the age of 19. Additionally, fees for young drivers under 24 years may apply.
The Slovak police can impose fines for violations of traffic rules. The amount of the fine is at the discretion of the officer. Alcohol-related offenses are particularly harsh.
Excerpt from the fine catalog: https://www.bussgeldkatalog.org/slowakei/
Driving in Slovakia is very similar to driving in Germany. However, there are small differences that can have a big impact, such as the rules regarding blood alcohol limits or the varying speed limits. Once you familiarize yourself with the rules and acquire a digital vignette from us, you will be well prepared.
