Understanding the Austrian Toll System in 2026

Austria uses a two-tier toll system for passenger cars, motorcycles, and motorhomes up to 3.5 tons. To travel legally, you must understand the difference between the General Vignette and the Section Toll (Streckenmaut).

1. The General Vignette (A- and S-Roads)

The standard vignette is mandatory for almost all motorways (Autobahnen) and expressways (Schnellstraßen). In 2026, you can choose between a 1-day, 10-day, 2-month, or annual vignette. However, there are five specific sections where the vignette is not enough.

2. Special Toll Sections (Sondermaut / Streckenmaut)

These sections are typically expensive-to-maintain Alpine crossings, including long tunnels and bridges. On these routes, the vignette requirement is suspended, but you must pay a separate toll. Even if you have an annual vignette, you still have to pay for these sections.

Detailed List of Special Toll Sections 2026

A9 Pyhrn Motorway (Gleinalm and Bosruck Tunnels)

The A9 is a key route for travelers heading from Linz towards Graz and Slovenia. The Bosruck tunnel and the Gleinalm tunnel require separate payments. These are crucial points for those avoiding the Tauern motorway during peak season.

A10 Tauern Motorway (Tauern and Katschberg Tunnels)

One of the most famous Alpine routes. The section toll applies between Flachau and Rennweg. It covers two massive tunnels: the Tauern Tunnel and the Katschberg Tunnel. This route is often heavily congested during winter and summer holidays.

A11 Karawanken Motorway (Karawanken Tunnel)

This tunnel connects Austria (Villach) with Slovenia (Ljubljana). Note: The toll for the Karawanken tunnel only covers the passage to the south. The return trip is paid to the Slovenian operator (DARS) unless you buy a digital round-trip ticket in advance.

A13 Brenner Motorway (Innsbruck to Italy)

The Brenner Pass is the primary gateway to Italy. Unlike other motorways, the entire A13 is a "special toll section," meaning you don't need a vignette if you only use the A13, but you must pay the section toll (Brennermaut).

S16 Arlberg Expressway (Arlberg Tunnel)

Connecting Tyrol and Vorarlberg, this is the only "S" road in Austria with a special toll. It is a vital link for those traveling towards Switzerland or the western parts of the Alps.

Comparison Table: Vignette vs. Section Toll

*On special toll sections, you technically don't need a vignette for that specific segment, but you will almost certainly need one for the roads leading up to it.

Why Buy Digital Tolls in Advance?

In 2026, the ASFINAG system (Austrian road operator) fully supports license plate recognition. By purchasing your Digital Section Toll through Winiety24, your plate is added to the database within minutes.

• No Paper Tickets: No need to lower your window or look for a credit card at the booth.
• Automated Lanes: Use the dedicated "Digital Toll" lanes (usually the far left) to drive through at 15-30 km/h while the cameras scan your plate.
• Immediate Validity: Unlike the official ASFINAG store (where a 18-day consumer protection waiting period may apply for individuals), our business-tier registration is valid immediately.