Are motorways in the Netherlands subject to tolls?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions by Polish drivers. The answer is not straightforward and depends on the type of vehicle you are driving. The Dutch road system is one of the densest in Europe, and its maintenance costs billions of euros annually.

Passenger cars and motorcycles (up to 3.5t)

Good news for tourists: the use of motorways and expressways in the Netherlands for passenger cars and motorcycles is generally free of charge. Unlike in Austria, Switzerland, or Slovenia, you do not need to buy any national vignette.

However, there are two important exceptions – toll tunnels. Additionally, when planning to enter large city centers, you must be aware of Low Emission Zones (Milieuzones).

Heavy goods vehicles (over 12t) – Eurovignette System

Here, the situation is different. The Netherlands, along with Denmark, Luxembourg, and Sweden, belongs to the Eurovignette system. Heavy goods vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) over 12 tons must have a paid passage.

Eurovignette in the Netherlands – Everything you need to know

For the TSL industry, the Netherlands is a key transit country. The Port of Rotterdam is a window to the world for the European economy. Therefore, knowledge of Eurovignette regulations is mandatory.

What is an Eurovignette?

The Eurovignette is an electronic toll collection system. You do not receive a sticker. After payment (e.g., via winiety24.eu), the license plate number is entered into a database, and cameras verify the validity of the payment.

How much does an Eurovignette cost?

The cost depends on:

• Emission class (Euro): Euro 6 pays the least.
• Number of axles: Up to 3 axles and 4 or more.
• Period of validity: Day, week, month, year.

You can find the exact calculation here: Eurovignette Calculator Netherlands.

Toll Tunnels in the Netherlands – Price List

Passenger car drivers must pay attention to two toll tunnels:

1. Westerscheldetunnel (Tunnel in Zeeland)

Connects Zuid-Beveland with Zeeuws-Vlaanderen. Crucial for routes to Belgium.

2. Kiltunnel (Dordrecht)

Shorter tunnel on road N217.

• Vehicles < 2.30 m: approx. 2.00 €
• Vehicles > 2.30 m: approx. 5.00 €

How to buy road tolls via Winiety24.eu?

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Go to winiety24.eu.
2. Select country: Netherlands.
3. Provide vehicle details and select the period of validity.
4. Pay securely online (BLIK, card).
5. Receive confirmation and drive!

Milieuzones – Low Emission Zones

Entry to city centers such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, The Hague, or Arnhem may be prohibited for older diesel vehicles.

For trucks, the Euro 6 standard is often required. For passenger cars (diesel), usually min. Euro 4/5. Always check signs before entering the city center.

Fines – What to expect?

The Netherlands has a highly automated control system.

• No Eurovignette: High fine (several hundred euros) + obligation to purchase a vignette.
• Eco zones: Fines from approx. 100 euros upwards.