All you need to know for smooth and legal Alpine road trips.
All About the Österreich Vignette
What is the vignette and when is it required?
The Österreich Vignette is a mandatory toll sticker or digital permit required for driving on most Austrian autobahns and expressways. It applies to all vehicles up to 3.5 tons and must be visibly displayed on your vehicle’s windshield or digitally registered before you drive on toll roads. Failure to have a valid vignette results in fines and additional penalties.
Pricing Breakdown
Prices vary depending on vehicle type and validity duration. Below is an overview of standard costs:
Vehicle Type
10-Day Vignette
2-Month Vignette
Annual Vignette
Car (up to 3.5 tons)
€9.60
€28.20
€95.80
Motorcycle
€5.20
€14.10
€37.20
Where to Buy the Vignette
Vignettes are easy to obtain and available at many locations:
Physical purchase at gas stations, border crossings, post offices, and service areas throughout Austria.
Online purchase through official Austrian government websites and authorized online retailers.
Vendor Type
Example Locations or Websites
Gas Stations
OMV, Shell, BP across Austria and border areas
Border Crossings
Major entry points like Salzburg, Vienna, and others
Driving on Austrian motorways or expressways without a valid vignette is illegal and subject to hefty fines up to €240 or more. Authorities conduct regular checks at traffic stops and motorway toll gates.
FAQ & Exceptions
Are there exceptions to the vignette requirement?
Yes, some short sections of autobahns and certain vehicles (like emergency or agricultural vehicles) may be exempt. Always check official sources for the latest regulations.
Can I use a digital vignette?
Yes. Austria now offers digital vignettes linked to your vehicle registration which serve as a paperless alternative to stickers.
Special Tolls, Roads, and Tunnels
Major Toll Roads and Tunnels Not Covered by the Vignette
While the vignette covers most highways, several Austrian tunnels and alpine passes require additional tolls. Notable ones include:
Arlberg Tunnel – €11.50
Brenner Pass and Tunnel – varies by vehicle
Tauern Tunnel – additional fee applies
Map of Toll Roads and Tunnels
Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey
Best Times to Travel and Avoid Peak Congestion
Avoid weekends and public holidays during summer and winter holidays.
Early mornings and late evenings tend to have lighter traffic.
Check weather forecasts for any alerts or road closures before departure.
Mountain Road Safety Guidance
Always carry tire chains during winter; use them when required by signage.
Drive with reduced speed on curved and steep roads.
Be mindful of weather changes; fog and ice can occur suddenly.
Respect all road signs, especially warning and braking distance advisories.
Planning Alternate Routes During High Season
To avoid bottlenecks, consider less traveled secondary roads or plan your journey outside peak hours. Our blog offers several route suggestions and updates on seasonal traffic patterns.
