Toll roads in Germany: a comprehensive guide for drivers
Germany has a complex toll road system , which mainly focuses on trucks, but also affects certain areas and vehicles such as cars. Although Germany is known for its free use of roads for cars and motorbikes, there are still special toll rules for certain types of vehicles, roads and tunnels. In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about toll roads in Germany , which vehicles it applies to, how tolls work and the costs involved.
Truck toll payment system in Germany
In Germany, there is a comprehensive toll system for trucks with a total permissible weight of 7.5 tons and more. This truck fee applies to all federal highways and many federal highways.
Who is obliged to pay for the passage of trucks?
All trucks weighing 7.5 tonnes or more traveling on German toll roads must pay a toll. This applies to both domestic and foreign vehicles driving on German roads.
How does truck tolling work?
Payment for the passage of trucks is made through the so-called Toll Collect system . There are two ways to pay the fare:
- Automatic invoicing through the on-board unit (OBU): Tolls are automatically recorded as soon as the vehicle travels the toll route.
- Manual booking : This option is mainly used by drivers who only occasionally cross Germany. A paid route can be booked in advance at payment points or online.
Expenses for payment of the passage of trucks
The cost of transportation of trucks varies depending on the following factors:
- Route length
- The number of vehicle axles
- Issue class
On average, truck tolls range from €0.09 to €0.30 per kilometer depending on the factors mentioned above.
Car tolls: special toll routes in Germany
Although Germany does not charge a general toll for cars on the motorways, there are certain routes where car drivers must pay special tolls . This mainly applies to tunnels, bridges and private roads .
Special paid routes for cars are known
- Warnowtunnel (Rostock) : Here, the toll for cars is approximately €4.50 one way.
- Herrentunnel (Lübeck) : the toll for cars is approximately €1.90 per trip.
- Transit routes in the Alps : Some roads in the Alps, such as the Rosfeldpanoramaschstrasse, charge a toll that depends on the route.
It is possible to enter a fee for a car
In recent years, there have been discussions in Germany about the introduction of a general car tax . However, these plans met with strong resistance, particularly from the EU, and have not yet been implemented.
Ecological zones and city collection
In addition to the actual toll roads, there are ecological zones in Germany , accessible only to cars with an appropriate environmental sticker . Although this is not a classic fee, failure to comply with these rules can result in high fines.
Some cities are also discussing the introduction of a city tax to regulate traffic in megacities and improve air quality. However, there are no clear plans yet.
Ways of paying road tolls in Germany
Depending on the paid route and the type of vehicle, there are different payment methods:
- Automatic invoicing through the OBU system for trucks.
- Payment for special toll routes is made manually in cash or by card at toll stations.
- Online booking : Some routes, like the Varnovsky Tunnel, offer convenient online payment for advance payment.
Penalties for non-fulfillment of duty payment obligations
Ignoring the obligation to pay customs duty, especially for trucks, can lead to high fines. For trucks, duty evasion can be punished with a fine of several hundred euros . Drivers of cars who do not pay special tolls also face fines.
Tips for using toll roads in Germany
- Check your vehicle type : Before you start your journey, make sure your vehicle is paid for.
- Use online maps : Many online maps and navigation systems offer the option to avoid toll roads, which can be especially useful for car drivers.
- Advance booking : If you’re using a dedicated toll route, it’s often a good idea to book a toll online in advance to avoid waiting times at toll stations.
While Germany is mostly toll-free for cars, trucks and some vehicles have to pay to travel on autobahns and federal highways. There are also special toll routes such as tunnels and bridges that also affect cars. With the right preparation and a good understanding of the toll system, travelers can travel safely and hassle-free in Germany.