Why is the vignette mandatory in Slovenia?

In Slovenia, the highway system is subject to an electronic toll system. Since 2022, it is mandatory to have a vignette in Slovenia to travel on these routes with a vehicle under 3.5t (cars, motorcycles, campers). This measure, implemented by the Slovenian highway manager, aims to maintain the road network while eliminating traditional toll booths to ease traffic and enforce traffic laws.

Which roads and highways require a vignette in Slovenia?

The highways and expressways subject to the e-vignette

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

Here are the main routes concerned:

• A1 – Styrian-Littoral Highway: connects the Austrian border (Šentilj) to the capital, then extends to Koper towards Croatia.
• A2 – Upper Carniola – Lower Carniola Highway: crosses 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 Highway: allows access to Maribor and Hungary (Pince).
• Expressways H3, H4, H5, H6, and H7 : provide quick access to coastal regions.

Sections exempt from the vignette

Not all Slovenian roads are subject to the vignette. Some specific sections remain free, such as:

• The highway between Austria and the Hrušica interchange (only in this direction).
• The roads towards 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 allows you to avoid the A4 while crossing Slovenia from east to west.
• The road Koper → Izola → Portorož → Piran which allows you to visit the Slovenian coast, this route avoids the H5 highway and allows access to Piran and Portorož.
• Highway A2 : Between Rosenbach (Austria) and Hrušica (Slovenia), the toll applies only for the Karawanken tunnel.
• Expressway H6 : The segment between Koper-Semedela and Koper-Lucija is free. Due to a blockage between Koper and Izola, a detour allows you to use the Markovec tunnel without toll.
• Former expressway H1 : Between Pesnica and Tezno, this road has been reclassified as a regional road, thus removing the vignette obligation.
• Former expressway H2 : This road, initially classified as an expressway, is now a free regional road.

The specific toll for the Karavanke tunnel

Although the A2 highway is covered by the Slovenian vignette, the Karavanke tunnel (which connects Slovenia to Austria) is not included in the electronic vignette system. It is subject to a separate toll, payable directly upon passage, with a fixed rate per vehicle.

✅ Tip: To avoid mistakes and fines, check your route before leaving for your vacation and consult the official map of the Slovenian highway network.

What are the types of vignettes and their rates?

The different vignettes available

In Slovenia, the electronic vignette is mandatory for all vehicles under 3,500 kg (cars, motorcycles, campers). 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.

Rates for 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 goods vehicles: a different toll system

Vehicles over 3.5 tons (heavy goods vehicles, buses, and some campers) are not subject to the classic 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 circulate, truck drivers must register and equip their vehicle with a DarsGo electronic device. This device, installed on the windshield, communicates with toll stations without requiring a stop, allowing for smooth traffic flow.

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

Where and how to buy your Slovenian vignette?

Online purchase on a website: fast and secure

You can purchase your Slovenian vignette directly online. Just register your license plate number and choose 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 sales in-store, no additional fees)
• ✅ eVignette (reseller, assistance, and flexible payment options)
• ✅ ADAC (Germany, commission fees applied)

💡 Tip: Buy your vignette online before your departure up to 30 days in advance to avoid queues at gas stations and travel 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 buy your highway vignette at a physical point of sale, several options are available:

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

Activation and effect delay

The activation of the Slovenian vignette depends on the chosen purchase method. If you buy it online, validity is quick after payment by credit card or PayPal, allowing you to travel without waiting. However, if you opt for a purchase at a point of sale, the vignette is activated instantly after entering your license plate number into the DARS system.

After purchasing your e-vignette, a QR code and an electronic confirmation are sent. Make sure to receive this confirmation email. 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.

📌 Attention! 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 must buy a new vignette.

What to do in case of a check or fine?

Checks carried out by the Slovenian police

La validité de la vignette slovène est vérifiée par la police routière et le DARS à l'aide de caméras fixes et mobiles installées sur les autoroutes et voies rapides. Des véhicules d'inspection équipés de lecteurs automatiques scannent les numéros de plaques d'immatriculation pour repérer les automobilistes sans vignette valide. Les contrôles peuvent également être effectués aux péages, et aires de repos.

Fines according to the offense

In case of absence of an electronic vignette, expiration, or error in the license plate number, offenders face 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 wrongfully fined, you can contest the fine by sending a complaint to DARS or the Slovenian police. It is recommended to provide proof of purchase of the vignette, the transaction receipt, and, if possible, a screenshot of the site where the purchase was made. However, errors in entering the license plate number generally do not entitle you to a refund.

Can the Slovenian vignette be avoided?

Who is exempt from the vignette in Slovenia?

According to Article 9 of the Slovenian toll law, certain vehicles are granted a total toll exemption on highways and expressways. The categories concerned are:

• Vehicles equipped with blue 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, within the framework of their management and maintenance activities of the infrastructure.

Alternative roads 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 lengthen travel time. Among the most used alternatives:

Specific cases: short trips between Italy and Croatia

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

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

Our tips for a stress-free trip in Slovenia🏞

Before hitting the road in Slovenia, it is essential to know the rules of the highway code and ensure that your vehicle is well-equipped according to local requirements. Failing to comply with these obligations can result in severe fines, especially in the event of a check by the Slovenian police.

Slovenian highway code: essential rules

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

• Dipped headlights mandatory day and night, regardless of the season.
• Seatbelt use for all passengers, including those sitting in the back.
• Blood alcohol limit set at 0.5 g/L, with zero tolerance for young drivers and professionals.
• Using a phone while driving is prohibited, except when using a hands-free kit.
• Speed limits: 50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h on roads, 110 km/h on expressways, and 130 km/h on highways.

⚠️ Warning: Speed cameras are numerous and speeding is heavily penalized. It can lead to a license suspension for the most serious offenses.

Mandatory equipment on board

In addition to following 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, mandatory in case of breakdown or accident.
• Spare bulbs for headlights, as their use is mandatory at all times.
• Winter tires or snow chains required between November 15 and March 15, with fines applicable in case of checks.

💡 Tip: Before you leave, check the weather!

FAQ

Can you transfer a vignette from one car to another?

No, the Slovenian electronic vignette is linked to the license plate number of the vehicle registered 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 buy 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.