Banner

CAR HIRE

ESSENTIAL GUIDES

Compare and book car hire from over 1,700 brands in over 45,000 locations

Calendar
Start date
Clock
Start Time
Calendar
End date
Clock
End Time

The ultimate guide to vignettes

While certain European countries rely on toll roads, others depend on vignettes. Unfamiliar
with vignette roads? You can get to know the ins and outs of them here in order to avoid any
expected car hire fines or fees.



What is a vignette road?

A vignette road is similar to a toll road, but unlike traditional tolls, vignette roads work
via a purchased sticker placed on the car’s windscreen. This sticker is referred to a
vignette sticker or a highway toll sticker. It is needed in several European countries in
order to drive on select roads. In some countries it is only needed for national motorways,
while in others it is required for the use of all roads.

Vignette stickers may be purchased for different lengths of time to match how long you’ll
need it for, including weekly, monthly and annually.



Do I need a vignette for my rental car?

Yes, just as you must pay tolls when driving a rental car, you must also ensure you have a
valid vignette sticker. Cars without vignettes are spotted by roadside cameras and will
incur a heavy fine, which will be handed on to the rental company. In turn, the supplier
will pass the penalty onto you along with additional admin charges. Fines may also be given
out if a vignette is not properly displayed on the windshield.

Which countries require a vignette?

You will need a vignette sticker when you rent a car in the following EU countries:

  • Austria
  • Bulgaria
  • Czech Republic
  • Hungary
  • Romania
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Switzerland

A new vignette must be purchased for each individual country. So if you rent a car in
Switzerland, purchase a Swiss vignette and then drive into Austria, you must also buy an
Austrian vignette.



How do I purchase a vignette?

In most countries, vignette stickers can be purchased at local petrol stations, post
offices, at border crossings and online. It is always a good idea to ask your supplier
if your rental will come with a sticker, as sometimes you may find that a vignette is
already included in your car hire price.

When you buy a vignette, be sure to hold onto your receipt (even after you return your
rental). This ensures you have proof of purchase in case of a mistaken fine.

How do I purchase a vignette?

Vignette prices vary depending on country and the length of time a vignette is valid for.

Country Minimum duration Cost
Austria 10 days 9.20 EUR
Bulgaria 7 days 15 BGN
Czech Republic 10 days 310 CZK
Hungary 10 days 3500 HUF
Romania 7 days 3 EUR
Slovakia 10 days 10 EUR
Slovenia 7 days 15 EUR
Switzerland 12 months 40 CHF

*prices for 2019

Book your car hire now

Other articles you might be interested in