Toll for Trucks in Slovakia: All You Need to Know

Toll in General

A toll is a fee imposed on road users for using certain roads or highways. It serves as a means of funding road infrastructure construction, maintenance, and enhancement. Various countries implement toll systems to ensure the sustainability of their road networks and promote efficient transportation. 

Toll System in Slovakia

The toll system in Slovakia is a comprehensive framework that applies to all vehicles weighing over 3.5 tons. It is based on a combination of satellite-based GPS, microwave DRSC and GSM/GPRS technology. This combination enables accurate and efficient toll collection by tracking the movement of vehicles in real-time. It was launched on 1 January 2010 and currently covers about 17,770km of certain road sections in Slovakia.

Types of Toll

Here is an overview of the types of Tolls in Slovakia:

• Electronic Tolls: Electronic tolls (e-tolls) are applicable to trucks or vehicles weighing over 3.5 tons. Onboard units (OBUs), which are installed in vehicles, are used to track and charge toll fees based on distance traveled on the tolled sections of the road network. Toll rates are determined by the vehicle category, weight, and number of axles.

• Vignette Tolls: Vignettes are essentially adhesive stickers that need to be affixed to the windscreen of vehicles. They come in various durations, such as 10 days, 30 days, and annual options. The vignette toll applies to passenger vehicles weighing less than 3.5 tons.

Payments for Toll

In Slovakia, vehicles weighing over 3.5 tons need to pay tolls using the SkyToll on-board unit. 

There are two payment options: Pre-pay and Post-pay.  

• Pre-pay: With the Pre-pay procedure, toll payment is made in advance. Users load funds onto the OBU, ensuring they have a sufficient balance to cover their expected toll expenses.

• Post-pay: In the Post-pay procedure, the toll charges are billed after the vehicle has traveled on the tolled roads. The OBU records the distance traveled, and the corresponding toll charges are calculated. 

The toll charges average 14 cents per kilometer (excluding VAT), depending on factors like emissions, axles, and road type.

Driving Rules for Trucks

Driving rules for trucks in Slovakia are subject to regulations that ensure safety on the roads and protect all road users. Here are some important guidelines and regulations that truck drivers should follow while operating their vehicles in Slovakia:

• Driving license: To drive a truck in Slovakia, you must possess a valid driving license appropriate for the category of vehicle you intend to operate. 
• Speed limits: Observe the designated speed limits while driving your truck in Slovakia. The standard speed limits for trucks weighing over 3.5 tons are 90 km/h on open roads and 50 km/h in built-up areas. However, speed limits may vary depending on the specific road signs and conditions.
• Overtaking: Exercise caution when overtaking other vehicles. Only overtake when it is safe to do so and ensure you have sufficient visibility ahead. Always use your indicators to signal your intention and return to the original lane once you have completed the maneuver.
• Parking and rest areas: When not in motion, park your truck only in designated parking areas. Use rest areas to take necessary breaks and ensure you are well-rested to prevent fatigue while driving.
• Driving under the Influence: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited. The legal blood alcohol limit for professional drivers in Slovakia is zero.

• Tires: From 15th November to 31st March, it is mandatory for heavy goods vehicles weighing over 3.5 tons to use winter tires with the “M+S” (mud and snow) marking. Winter tires should be fitted when there are signs indicating the obligation or when there is a layer of snow or ice on the road. Additionally, the use of studded tires is prohibited in Slovakia.

• Dipped headlights: From 15th October to 15th March, it is mandatory to drive with dipped headlights on at all times, even during daylight hours.

• A reflective vest must be kept inside the passenger cabin of the truck and not in the trunk. This vest is to be worn by the driver in case of emergencies or breakdowns when exiting the vehicle on the road.

History of Tolls in Slovakia

Prior to the launch of the electronic toll collection (ETC) system, Slovakia used a manual system for toll collection on its highways. The toll collection was primarily done through toll booths located at various points on the highways. 

This manual toll collection system was in place until January 1, 2010, when Slovakia introduced an electronic toll collection system called “Electronic Toll Collection” (ETC). The ETC system replaced the manual toll booths and enabled electronic payment of tolls using onboard units installed in vehicles.

By January 1, 2014, the new toll system had covered approximately 17,770 kilometers of specified road sections in Slovakia. This included sections of motorways, expressways, and various classes of roads.

The expansion of the specified road sections under the ETC system made Slovakia the first EU country to operate the longest road network within an electronic toll system. Slovakia’s ETC system also covered the longest network of lower-category roads, spanning over 17,100 kilometers.

How Can Eurowag Help You With Tolls in Slovakia?

Eurowag offers a comprehensive toll payment solution that can help you with toll payments in Slovakia. By choosing our services, you can take advantage of the following key features:

Tailor-made pricing: As a Eurowag customer, you benefit from customized pricing that maximizes savings, ensuring you receive the most competitive rates available in the market.

Easy installation of EETS-certified toll boxes: Our EETS-certified toll boxes are designed for easy installation, providing you with a hassle-free toll payment experience across multiple countries. 

Full European toll road coverage: Enjoy the convenience of comprehensive toll road coverage throughout Europe. Whether you’re traveling across borders or within a single country, Eurowag ensures you have seamless access to toll roads, guaranteeing a smooth journey.

Post-paid mode: With Eurowag, you can drive first and pay later. Our post-paid mode allows you to focus on your journey without the burden of upfront payments, providing you with flexibility and peace of mind.

In addition to these features, we offer exclusive toll discounts for our customers and the convenience of paying for electronic vignettes using Eurowag fuel cards. Our unique Eurowag EETS OBU (EVA) combines toll solutions, fleet management, and refuel fraud prevention technology, enabling real-time fleet monitoring, route optimization, enhanced driver performance, and up to 20% reduction in fuel costs. Choose Eurowag as your toll payment partner today and experience the efficiency, convenience, and cost savings we bring to your toll collection process.