Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about Austrian motorway vignettes. Use our selection matrix.

Do I need a vignette to drive in Austria?

Yes. All vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes must display a valid vignette when using Austrian motorways (Autobahnen) and expressways (Schnellstraßen). Normal federal roads (Bundesstraßen) do not require a vignette.

Where can I buy an Austrian vignette?

You can purchase a vignette online via the ASFINAG website (digital vignette), at border crossings, petrol stations, post offices, ÖAMTC/ARBÖ service centres, and tobacco shops (Trafik) throughout Austria and in neighbouring countries near the border.

What is the fine for driving without a vignette?

Driving without a valid vignette can result in an on-the-spot fine of up to €240. ASFINAG uses electronic monitoring systems (licence plate cameras) to detect vehicles without valid vignettes.

How does the digital vignette work?

The digital vignette is linked to your vehicle's licence plate number. You purchase it online via the ASFINAG website or app, and it is automatically registered in the ASFINAG system. No physical sticker is needed. Enforcement cameras read your licence plate and verify your vignette status electronically.

Can I transfer my vignette to another vehicle?

No. Vignettes — both digital and sticker — are non-transferable. Each vignette is valid only for the specific vehicle it was purchased for (identified by licence plate for digital, or the specific windscreen for sticker).

When does the annual vignette become valid?

The annual vignette is valid from 1 December of the previous year to 31 January of the following year — a total of 14 months. It becomes available for purchase from November.

Does the vignette cover special toll roads?

No. The standard vignette covers all regular Austrian motorways and expressways, but does NOT cover special toll roads (Sondermaut) such as the Brenner Autobahn (A13), Tauern Autobahn (A10), Pyhrn Autobahn (A9), Karawanken Tunnel, and Arlberg Road Tunnel. These require separate toll payments.

What if I damage or lose my vignette sticker?

If your vignette sticker is damaged or falls off, you should replace it. A damaged or unreadable sticker is treated the same as no vignette by enforcement authorities. Keep your purchase receipt to prove you had a valid vignette. For digital vignettes, there is no physical sticker to lose or damage.

Do motorcycles need a vignette?

Yes. Motorcycles require a vignette, but at a lower price than cars. The motorcycle vignette uses a smaller sticker format that is attached to the frame rather than a windscreen. Digital vignettes are also available for motorcycles.

Is a rental car vignette included?

It depends on the rental company. Many Austrian car rental companies include a valid vignette with their vehicles, but this is not universal. Always check with your rental company before purchasing a separate vignette to avoid paying twice.

Can I buy a vignette in advance?

Yes. Digital vignettes can be purchased up to 18 days before the activation date. Sticker vignettes are activated immediately upon purchase. Planning ahead is recommended, especially for the 10-day vignette where you choose the start date.

What happens if I enter Austria without a vignette?

If you enter Austria and use a motorway without a valid vignette, you risk being fined up to €240. ASFINAG's electronic monitoring system operates continuously. There is no grace period for first-time offenders.

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