Why is the vignette mandatory in Slovenia?

In Slovenia, the highway network is subject to an electronic toll system. Since 2022, it has been mandatory to possess a vignette in Slovenia to travel on these routes with a vehicle under 3.5 tons (cars, motorcycles, campers). This measure, implemented by the Slovenian highway operator, aims to maintain the road network while removing traditional toll booths to ease traffic flow and enforce traffic regulations.

Which roads and highways require a vignette in Slovenia?

The highways and expressways subject to the electronic vignette

In Slovenia, the electronic vignette is compulsory for all highways (A) and expressways (H) managed by DARS. These traffic routes are marked by green signs, similar to those in other European countries.

Here are the main routes affected:

• A1 – Styria-Coastal Highway: connects the Austrian border (Šentilj) to the capital, then extends to Koper towards Croatia.
• A2 – Upper Carniola – Lower Carniola Highway: traverses Slovenia from north to south, connecting Austria (via the Karawanken Tunnel) to Zagreb via Ljubljana.
• A3 – Sežana Highway: connects Divača to the Italian border (Fernetiči).
• A4 – Drava Highway: connects Slivnica to Gruškovje.
• A5 – Mur Region Motorway: connects Maribor and Hungary (Pince).
• Highways H3, H4, H5, H6, and H7 : provide quick access to coastal regions.

Sections exempt from toll

Not all Slovenian roads require a toll. Some specific sections remain free, such as:

• The motorway between Austria and the Hrušica interchange (only in this direction).
• The roads leading to Italy (Sežana-Fernetici) and Croatia (Macelj, Dragonja, Gruškovje) are also exempt.
• The northern bypass of Maribor (H2) and the southern bypass of Ljubljana
• The road Maribor → Ptuj → Brežice (towards Croatia), this national road avoids the A4 while crossing Slovenia from east to west.
• The route Koper → Izola → Portorož → Piran allows you to explore the Slovenian coast, avoiding the H5 motorway while connecting to Piran and Portorož.
• Motorway A2 : Between Rosenbach (Austria) and Hrušica (Slovenia), the toll applies only for the Karawanken Tunnel.
• Highway H6 : The segment between Koper-Semedela and Koper-Lucija is free. Due to a blockade between Koper and Izola, a detour allows passage through the Markovec Tunnel without toll.
• Former Highway H1 : Between Pesnica and Tezno, this road has been reclassified as a regional road, removing the toll obligation.
• Former Highway H2 : This road, originally classified as a highway, is now a free regional road.

Specific toll for the Karavanke Tunnel

Although the A2 motorway is covered by the Slovenian toll, the Karavanke Tunnel (connecting Slovenia to Austria) is not included in the electronic toll system. It has a separate toll that is payable directly at the passage, with a fixed rate per vehicle.

✅ Tip: To avoid mistakes and fines, check your route before departing for your holiday and consult the official map of the Slovenian motorway network.

What are the types of vignettes and their rates?

The different available vignettes

In Slovenia, the electronic vignette is mandatory for all vehicles under 3,500 kg (cars, motorcycles, motorhomes). It is available in four durations:

• 7 days : ideal for a short stay or a trip to Croatia.
• 1 month : recommended for extended stays.
• 6 months : only for two-wheelers.
• 12 months : the most economical solution for residents and regular travelers.

Prices of Slovenian vignettes

Prices vary depending on the type of vehicle.

✅ Good to know: Trailers and bicycles do not need to display a vignette. Only the towing vehicle is required to have one.

Vignette for heavy vehicles: a different toll system

Vehicles over 3.5 tons (heavy vehicles, buses, and some motorhomes) are not subject to the standard electronic vignette. In Slovenia, they must use the DarsGo toll system, which calculates the toll amount based on the distance traveled and the vehicle's characteristics (number of axles, Euro emission class).

To operate, truck drivers must register and equip their vehicle with a DarsGo electronic box. This device, installed on the windshield, communicates with toll stations without requiring a stop, allowing for smooth traffic flow.

💡 Good to know: The DarsGo box can be obtained at DarsGo centers located at border crossings, motorway rest areas, and DARS agencies. It is also possible to register online and then pick up the device on site. A deposit and handling fees may apply.

Where and how to buy your Slovenian vignette?

Online purchase on a website: fast and secure

You can purchase your Slovenia vignette directly online. Simply enter your license plate number and select the start date of validity. Payment is immediate, and the vignette is activated without needing a sticker on the windshield.

📌 Recommended sites for online purchase:

• ✅ Official DARS website (direct store sales, no additional fees)
• ✅ eVignette (vendor, support, and flexible payment options)
• ✅ ADAC (Germany, commission fees apply)

💡 Tip: Buy your vignette online up to 30 days before your departure to avoid queues at gas stations and to drive on Slovenian highways and expressways! Also, remember to keep the purchase confirmation in case of a check.

Physical purchase: where to find your vignette?

If you prefer to purchase your highway vignette from a physical location, you have several options:

• Gas stations located on the highways in Slovenia.
• Border crossings and tobacco shops in Austria, Italy, and Croatia.
• DARS offices located across Slovenia.

Effectiveness and activation time

The activation of the Slovenia vignette depends on the purchase method chosen. If you buy online, the validity is quick after payment via credit card or PayPal, allowing you to drive without waiting. However, if you choose to buy at a physical location, the vignette is activated instantly after entering your license plate number into the DARS system.

After purchasing your e-vignette, a QR code and electronic confirmation are sent. Make sure to receive this confirmation email. Double-check that the license plate number and validity period are correct. In case of a check, it is recommended to keep a digital or printed copy.

📌 Warning! If your vignette and its information are not recognized during a check or if you notice an error in your license plate number, immediately contact DARS customer service or the support of the site where you made the purchase. A data entry error during purchase generally cannot be corrected, and you will need to buy a new vignette.

What to do in case of a check or fine?

Checks carried out by the Slovenian police

The validity of the Slovenia vignette is checked by traffic police and DARS using fixed and mobile cameras installed on highways and expressways. Inspection vehicles equipped with automatic readers scan license plate numbers to identify motorists without a valid vignette. Checks can also be conducted at toll booths and rest areas.

Fines based on the offense

In the absence of an electronic vignette, expiration, or error in the license plate number, offenders are subject to immediate penalties. Officers are authorized to temporarily confiscate vehicle documents until the fine is paid.

Appeals and contesting a fine

If you believe you have been improperly fined, you can contest the fine by submitting a complaint to the DARS or the Slovenian police. It is recommended to provide proof of purchase for the vignette, the transaction receipt, and, if possible, a screenshot of the website where the purchase was made. However, errors in entering the license plate number generally do not entitle you to a refund.

Can the Slovene vignette be avoided?

Who is exempt from the vignette in Slovenia?

According to Article 9 of the Slovenian toll law, certain vehicles are completely exempt from tolls on highways and expressways. The relevant categories are:

• Vehicles equipped with blue flashing lights (emergency and rescue vehicles).
• Slovenian military vehicles, used by the national army.
• Vehicles transporting humanitarian aid as part of official missions.
• Foreign military vehicles mobilized for national defense.
• International peacekeeping forces operating on Slovenian territory.
• Vehicles of toll road operators, in connection with their management and maintenance of infrastructure activities.

Alternative routes without a vignette

It is possible to bypass Slovenian highways and expressways by taking free secondary roads. However, these routes are often slower, with speed limits and village crossings that increase travel time. Among the most commonly used alternatives:

Specific cases: short trips between Italy and Croatia

If you are traveling between Italy and Croatia, it is possible to avoid purchasing a Slovenian vignette by taking free secondary roads. However, these routes are longer and sometimes poorly marked. Here are some alternatives:

📌⚠️ Be cautious of navigation errors! Some portions of urban ring roads, especially around Ljubljana and Koper, are considered expressways and require a vignette. If you take the wrong exit, you could be fined even for just a few kilometers on a toll highway. Before setting off, plan your route carefully and use an updated GPS to avoid costly mistakes!

Our tips for a stress-free journey in Slovenia🏞

Before hitting the road in Slovenia, it is essential to know the rules of the traffic code and ensure that your vehicle is equipped according to local requirements. Failing to meet these obligations can lead to severe fines, especially in the event of a police check.

Slovenian traffic code: essential rules

Adhering to the traffic code is essential for safe driving in Slovenia. Here are the main rules to know before you leave:

• Daytime running lights are mandatory at all times, regardless of the season.
• Seatbelt use required for all passengers, including those sitting in the back.
• Blood alcohol content limit set at 0.5 g/L, with zero tolerance for young drivers and professionals.
• Using a phone while driving is prohibited, unless using a hands-free kit.
• Speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, 110 km/h on expressways, and 130 km/h on highways.

⚠️ Caution: Speed cameras are plentiful, and speeding violations are heavily penalized. Serious offenses may result in license suspension.

Mandatory equipment on board

In addition to adhering to traffic rules, your vehicle must be equipped according to Slovenian standards. Here are the essential items to have on board:

• Warning triangle, reflective vest, and first aid kit are required in case of breakdown or accident.
• Spare bulbs for headlights are required, as their use is mandatory at all times.
• Winter tires or snow chains are required from November 15 to March 15, and fines may be imposed during checks.

💡 Tip: Before you depart, check the weather!

FAQ

Can you transfer a vignette from one car to another?

No, the Slovenian electronic vignette is linked to the registration number of the vehicle recorded at the time of purchase. It cannot be transferred to another vehicle, even temporarily. If you change vehicles (for example, in case of replacement or rental), you must purchase a new vignette.

Who is exempt from the Slovenian vignette?

Only official and diplomatic vehicles registered under special status, military and police vehicles, as well as emergency services, are exempt from the vignette.