Road toll systems in Europe are undergoing dynamic changes in 2026. The key trend is the definitive shift away from traditional time-based vignettes toward distance-based charges heavily influenced by CO2 emission classes. This guide provides a detailed overview of tolling principles in 17 key countries to help you plan routes and manage transport costs effectively.
What toll systems will you encounter on European roads?
To plan effectively, you must distinguish between the three primary settlement models:
- Kilometer-based systems (Free-flow): Charges are calculated automatically via GPS/DSRC devices (e.g., Germany, Poland, Belgium).
- Toll Booths (Tolling stations): Traditional toll collection at entry or exit points (e.g., Italy, France, Croatia).
- Vignettes: Time-based fees (daily, monthly, annual), which are becoming rare for heavy transport but still exist in some regions for lighter vehicles.
European Road Toll Overview (A-Z)
Austria (GO-Maut)
In 2026, the GO-Maut system for vehicles over 3.5 t remains based on axles and CO2 classes. Rates increased by approximately 10% in January 2026. Note that special section tolls (Streckenmaut) for the Arlberg Tunnel and Brenner Pass are billed separately.
Belgium (Viapass)
The Viapass system covers Flanders, Wallonia, and Brussels. A major update on July 1, 2026, introduces a CO2 surcharge in Flanders. Wallonia rates were also indexed upward by ~1.9% at the start of the year.
Bulgaria (BG-Toll)
The BG-Toll system increased rates for heavy vehicles by nearly 9% in late 2025. It applies to motorways and Class I/II roads. Use an OBU or Route Pass for settlement.
Croatia (HAC)
Croatia continues its booth-based system but has integrated EETS more deeply. In 2026, zero-emission trucks receive up to a 70% discount on tolls to promote “green” transit to Adriatic ports.
Denmark (Kilometerafgift)
Denmark has fully transitioned from the Eurovignette to the distance-based Kilometerafgift. Separate high fees apply for the Storebælt and Øresund bridges, which are not included in the standard kilometer rate.
France (TIS-PL)
French motorways (managed by various concessionaires) updated their tariffs in January 2026. Costs are determined by vehicle height and axles. Alpine tunnels like Fréjus and Mont Blanc continue to have high, independent price lists.
Germany (LKW-Maut)
The LKW-Maut remains the most expensive and sophisticated system. In 2026, the CO2 component is a dominant part of the rate. A standard Euro VI combination (>18t, 5+ axles) in CO2 Class 1 pays roughly 34.8 cents/km.
Hungary (HU-GO)
HU-GO rates increased in a two-stage process during 2026. The system is strictly distance-based and requires either a dedicated OBU or a pre-purchased route ticket.
Italy (Telepass / Autostrade)
Italy’s distance-based tolling updated its rates in January 2026. New incentives for LNG and electric heavy vehicles are available on certain sections like Brebemi (A35).
Norway (AutoPASS)
Norway’s AutoPASS is fully automated. In 2026, ferry prepayment amounts were adjusted. Most city entries (Oslo, Bergen) now charge differentiated rates based on engine type and time of day.
Poland (e-TOLL)
In February 2026, Poland expanded its toll network by over 600 km and increased rates. The system uses GNSS technology and covers most motorways and expressways.
Portugal (Via Verde)
Portuguese tolls increased by 2.29% in January 2026. Many motorways now use “Electronic Toll Only” gantries, making a compatible OBU essential for avoiding heavy administrative fines.
Slovakia (Myto SK)
Slovakia updated its Myto SK tariffs in early 2026. A new 1-day vignette for light vehicles is available, but HGVs remain on the satellite-based per-kilometer system.
Slovenia (DarsGo)
The DarsGo system is mandatory for vehicles >3.5 t. Rates are determined by the number of axles and Euro emission class. The Karavanke Tunnel remains a separate toll point.
Spain (VIA-T)
While some “Autovías” remain free, major “Autopistas” require payment via VIA-T. Rates were adjusted for inflation in 2026.
Switzerland (LSVA)
The LSVA fee applies to all public roads. In 2026, the annual vignette for lighter vehicles is priced at €44.50, but heavy transport is charged based on weight, distance, and emissions.
Sweden (Kilometerafgift)
Following Denmark’s lead, Sweden has implemented its own distance-based reform for HGVs. Bridge fees for Øresund and Svinesund remain significant cost factors.
The CO2 Challenge: 2026 Classification
Under the Eurovignette Directive, almost all EU states now divide vehicles into 5 CO2 classes. Class 5 (zero-emission) receives the highest discounts, while Class 1 (standard diesel) faces the highest surcharges. Ensuring your OBU is updated with the correct technical documentation (CoC) is vital to avoid overpaying.
Discover Our Route Calculator
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OMV Smart Pass: One Solution for Every Road
Managing tolls across 17 different systems is an operational nightmare. OMV Smart Pass simplifies it:
- One OBU (EETS): A single device for all listed countries, including major tunnels and bridges.
- Centralized Invoicing: All fees from Germany, Poland, Austria, and beyond are aggregated into one transparent, consolidated invoice.
- Automation: The system automatically identifies tariff changes and handles CO2 classification updates.
- Financial Liquidity: Benefit from the post-pay model—pay for your transit after it happens, improving your cash flow.
Is your fleet optimized for 2026? Contact us to learn more.
