The vignette requirement in Austria is a central element of the road traffic regulations, which not only contributes to the financing of road infrastructure but is also intended to ensure compliance with legal regulations in road traffic. Despite clear regulations and widespread information, violations of this requirement still occur again and again.

The consequences of such violations are not only financial, but can also have serious impacts on road safety and the environment. We take a look at the different types of violations of the vignette requirement, highlight the corresponding penalties, and discuss the general impact on road users and road traffic in general.

The most important things in brief:

• There are various violations of the vignette requirement in Austria.
• Those affected are often asked to pay a so-called substitute toll of 120 euros.
• Administrative fines range from 300 to 3,000 euros.

The penalties for violating the vignette requirement in Austria

There are many different violations of the vignette requirement in Austria, each of which carries different consequences. Failure to comply with the vignette requirement can result in serious financial consequences. If you are stopped on the highway or expressway without a valid vignette, you will be fined €120 for car drivers and €65 for motorcyclists. If the fine is not paid immediately, you may be prosecuted and face an increased fine of up to €300. In extreme cases, the fine can even reach €3,000.

The request for the replacement toll and your options

If you've been caught violating the vignette requirement in Austria, you can expect to receive a letter from ASFiNAG shortly. This letter will arrive in a standard envelope and you'll be asked to pay a so-called substitute toll, currently set at €120. However, if you're convinced you haven't committed a violation, you can request a photo as evidence and have it checked.

Important: We recommend that you only submit this appeal if you have not actually committed any violation, as otherwise the penalties can quickly skyrocket.

There is also the so-called "anonymous order," which costs €300. In such a case, you may apply for payment of a substitute toll or, if there are special reasons, for criminal archiving. However, the number of entries submitted is always limited. If you fail to pay the anonymous order on time, the authority will initiate administrative penalty proceedings, with costs now ranging from €300 to €3,000. The deadline for filing an appeal in this case is a maximum of two weeks.

However, if the oversight is only minor, such as an infraction such as your vignette being expired by a day or incorrectly affixed, it's advisable to apply for an extraordinary mitigation. If approved, this will result in a reduction or even cancellation of the fine.

FAQ on violations of the vignette requirement in Austria

FAQ on violations of the vignette requirement in Austria

What happens if I drive without a valid vignette?

Driving without a valid vignette on the motorways in Austria will result in a fine, which will be imposed when toll controls are carried out.

What is the penalty for violating the vignette requirement in Austria?

While the cost of the substitute toll is currently 120 euros, the penalties for the anonymous toll are considerably higher at 300 to 3,000 euros.

Does this fine have to be paid?

If a violation is proven, we recommend that you pay the fine within the specified deadline. If you believe no such violation has occurred, you can file an appeal.