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 the clear regulations and the wide dissemination of information, however, violations of this requirement still occur again and again.

The consequences of such violations are not only financial, but can also have serious effects 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 present the general impact on road users and road traffic in general.

The most important thing in brief:

• There are various violations of the vignette requirement in Austria.
• Those affected are often asked to pay a so-called replacement 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, which of course also have different consequences. Failure to comply with the vignette requirement can have serious financial consequences. If you are stopped on the motorways or expressways without a valid vignette, you will be fined 120 euros for car drivers, while motorcyclists will be asked to pay 65 euros. If the fine is not paid immediately, you may also be reported and receive an increased fine of up to 300 euros. In extreme cases, the fine can even be as high as 3,000 euros.

The request for the replacement toll and your options

As soon as you have been caught violating the vignette requirement in Austria, you can expect to receive mail from ASFiNAG soon. This letter comes in a normal envelope and you will be asked to pay a so-called substitute toll, which is currently 120 euros. However, if you are convinced that you have not committed an infringement, you have the option of requesting a photo as evidence and having it checked.

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

There is also the so-called "anonymous order", which costs 300 euros. In such a case, you can apply for payment of a replacement toll or, if there are special reasons, for criminal archiving. However, the submission of entries is always only possible to a limited extent. If you do not pay the anonymous order on time, the authority will initiate administrative penalty proceedings, with costs now ranging between 300 and 3,000 euros. The deadline for a possible appeal in this case is a maximum of two weeks.

However, if it is only a minor oversight, such as an infringement such as your vignette being expired by a day or incorrectly affixed, it is advisable to apply for an extraordinary reduction in the penalty. If this is granted, this will lead to a reduction or even an annulment of the penalty.

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.

How high is the penalty for violating the vignette requirement in Austria?

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

Does this fine have to be paid?

If an offence is proven, we recommend that you pay the fine within the set deadline. If you believe that no such offence has been committed, you can file an appeal.