Frequently Asked Questions about Austrian Vignettes
Welcome to our comprehensive FAQ section, designed to answer your most pressing questions about the Austrian vignette system. Whether you're new to driving in Austria or a seasoned traveller, understanding the vignette requirements is crucial for a smooth journey. Below you'll find detailed answers covering purchasing, validity, exemptions, and general travel advice.
What is an Austrian vignette and why do I need one?
An Austrian vignette is a toll sticker or digital pass required for most vehicles (cars, motorcycles, motorhomes up to 3.5 tonnes) using Austrian motorways and expressways. It's essentially a pre-payment for the use of these national roads. You need one because Austria operates a time-based toll system for its primary road network, and failure to display a valid vignette or possess a digital one can result in significant fines. These funds contribute to the maintenance and expansion of Austria's excellent road infrastructure.
Where can I purchase a vignette?
Physical vignettes can be purchased at border crossings, petrol stations (both in Austria and neighbouring countries near the border), post offices, and certain tobacconists (Tabak Trafik) in Austria. Digital vignettes are available online through the official ASFINAG website (asfinag.at) or via the 'Unterwegs' app. We recommend purchasing a digital vignette in advance to avoid potential queues and ensure compliance before entering Austria's toll road network.
What are the different validity periods available for vignettes?
Austrian vignettes are available for several validity periods to suit different travel needs:
- 10-day vignette: Valid for 10 consecutive calendar days from the date you specify.
- 2-month vignette: Valid for two months from the start date (e.g., from 15th May to 15th July).
- Annual vignette: Valid for 14 months, specifically from 1st December of the previous year to 31st January of the following year (e.g., the 2024 annual vignette is valid from 1st Dec 2023 to 31st Jan 2025).
Is there a waiting period for digital vignettes?
Yes, for consumers purchasing digital vignettes online, there is a consumer protection period of 18 days between purchase and the start of validity. This is due to distance selling regulations. However, if you are purchasing as a business or can declare that you are purchasing for a business trip, this waiting period does not apply. If you need a digital vignette immediately for private travel, you can purchase it at certain physical sales points (e.g., ÖAMTC, ARBÖ, ADAC offices, or some petrol stations) where the digital vignette becomes valid immediately.
How do I correctly attach a physical vignette to my vehicle?
A physical vignette must be affixed to the inside of your windscreen, typically in the top-left corner or near the rearview mirror, so it is clearly visible from the outside. It must be attached directly to the glass, without any adhesive tape or film, and the backing foil must be completely removed. Do not place it behind a tinted strip or in a position where it is obscured. For motorcycles, it should be affixed to a clean, non-removable part of the bike, such as the fuel tank or front fork, and must also be fully visible and undamaged. Improper attachment can render the vignette invalid and lead to fines.
Are there any exemptions from the vignette requirement?
Yes, certain vehicles are exempt from the general vignette requirement:
- Motorcycles and cars weighing over 3.5 tonnes (these are subject to the GO-Box electronic toll system).
- Trailers and caravans (they do not require their own vignette if towed by a vignette-bearing vehicle under 3.5 tonnes).
- Vehicles with special permits (e.g., emergency services, diplomatic vehicles).
- Vehicles of persons with disabilities (under specific conditions and with prior registration).
What are 'special toll routes' and how do they differ from the vignette?
Special toll routes are specific sections of Austrian motorways, tunnels, and mountain passes that require an additional, separate toll payment beyond the general vignette. These are typically expensive constructions like long tunnels or scenic alpine roads, where the cost of construction and maintenance is significantly higher. Examples include the Brenner Pass, Tauern Tunnel, Karawanken Tunnel, and Arlberg Tunnel. You pay these tolls directly at the toll stations before entering the section, or you can purchase a digital section toll online in advance. A vignette is still required for the general use of the motorway network leading up to and beyond these special toll sections.
What happens if I forget to buy a vignette or use an invalid one?
Driving on a vignette-required road without a valid vignette (or with an incorrectly affixed physical vignette) will result in a substitute toll (Ersatzmaut). This is a penalty payment that is significantly higher than the cost of a vignette. For cars, it's typically around €120, and for motorcycles, around €65. If the substitute toll isn't paid on the spot, or if there's evidence of manipulation or evasion, fines can escalate significantly, potentially reaching €300 to €3,000. It is therefore highly advisable to ensure you have a valid vignette before entering any Austrian motorway or expressway.
Can I transfer my vignette to another vehicle?
Physical vignettes are non-transferable. Once affixed, they cannot be removed and re-attached to another vehicle. Attempting to do so will damage the vignette, rendering it invalid. Digital vignettes are linked to a specific vehicle's registration number and cannot be transferred to a different vehicle. If you sell your car, the digital vignette remains with that vehicle. If your windscreen needs replacing due to damage, you can apply for a replacement physical vignette (with proof of purchase and windscreen replacement documentation) at ASFINAG sales points.
How can VignetteDesk AT help with route planning?
Our route planner tool, available on the Route Planner page, helps you identify which specific roads in Austria require a vignette and which are subject to special tolls. By inputting your start and end points, our system can highlight the necessary vignette type and any additional special tolls you might encounter. This allows you to budget accurately and purchase the correct vignettes or digital section tolls in advance, ensuring a hassle-free journey through Austria's beautiful landscapes.
What if I rent a car in Austria or a neighbouring country?
If you rent a car within Austria, it will almost certainly already have a valid vignette. However, it's always wise to double-check this with the rental company upon collection. If you rent a car in a neighbouring country (e.g., Germany, Italy, Switzerland) and plan to drive into Austria, the car may or may not come with an Austrian vignette. You are responsible for ensuring the vehicle has a valid vignette before entering Austrian toll roads. Always clarify this with your rental company, or be prepared to purchase one yourself, either digitally or physically, before crossing the border.
What is the 'GO-Box' system?
The GO-Box is an electronic toll system used in Austria for vehicles over 3.5 tonnes (heavy goods vehicles, buses, and larger motorhomes). Unlike the vignette, which is a time-based fee, the GO-Box calculates tolls based on the distance travelled, the number of axles, and the vehicle's emission class. If you are driving a vehicle over 3.5 tonnes, you will need to register for a GO-Box and ensure it is correctly installed and activated before driving on Austrian motorways and expressways.