Vignette tolls: could they reach Spain?

A few days ago, the Government’s plan to introduce tolls on all dual carriageways and motorways as part of the measures presented in Brussels made headlines. However, this could change due to the situation the current tolls are experiencing. Spain could adopt the vignette toll system.

You may never have heard of this type of toll, but it could put an end to the drawbacks arising from the introduction of road tolls. This system could also benefit, especially, drivers who frequently cover long distances.

What are vignette tolls and how do they work?

Vignette tolls work by means of a sticker similar to the environmental labels issued by the Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT). Purchasing it is required, and it applies to vehicles weighing less than 3,500 kg. It is a solution that offers advantages to drivers making long journeys, because only one payment is needed to use the motorway or dual carriageway as many times as required within a given period.

This system requires no control, maintenance or toll booths. That said, if you drive without displaying the sticker, the fine will be quite high, so high that it will make you think twice about whether it is worth skipping the cost of the sticker. The price of the vignette toll depends on factors such as the period and the country in which you wish to drive.

The minimum period is ten days, there is another of two weeks, and the maximum ranges from two to twelve months. In Austria, the ten-day vignette toll costs €8.80, which can rise to €25.50 if we want to enjoy it for two months. In Slovakia, meanwhile, there is a one-year option costing €50, a ten-day one at €10, and a 30-day one at around €14.

For the time being, it is unknown whether the vignette toll will be introduced in Spain, but it could be an easy system to implement at a more or less affordable price for drivers.