Our Guidance Services

1. Toll Payment Methods Explained

Understanding the various ways to pay tolls in Austria is crucial for avoiding fines. We provide detailed information on each method, including their advantages and specific use cases.

Digital Vignette (E-Vignette)

An electronic proof of toll payment, linked to your vehicle's registration number. We explain the purchasing process, validity periods, and important notes regarding consumer rights and transferability.

Physical Vignette (Sticker Vignette)

The traditional sticker that must be affixed to your windscreen. We detail where to purchase it, how to correctly apply it, and the different validity options available.

Route-Specific Tolls (Streckenmaut)

For certain expensive tunnels and mountain passes, a separate toll is required. We outline which routes require this, how these tolls can be paid (e.g., at toll plazas, online, or via an automatic system like a GO-Box for heavy vehicles), and typical payment options.

GO-Box (for vehicles over 3.5 tonnes)

A mandatory electronic device for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and buses. We provide information on its acquisition, registration, usage, and the two payment modes: pre-pay and post-pay.

2. Digital Vignette Purchasing Steps

Purchasing a digital vignette can be straightforward once you understand the process. We guide you through each stage, from initial decision-making to confirmation.

Key Steps for Purchasing an E-Vignette

Step	Description	Important Consideration
1. Vehicle Type Selection	Choose between motorcycle or car (up to 3.5 tonnes).	Incorrect selection can lead to fines.
2. Validity Period	Select 10-day, 2-month, or 1-year vignette.	Consider your travel duration carefully.
3. Registration Number Entry	Input your vehicle's registration plate number accurately.	Double-check for typos; changes can be difficult.
4. Country of Registration	Specify the country where your vehicle is registered.	This affects the 18-day cooling-off period for consumers.
5. Payment	Complete payment via credit card, PayPal, or other accepted methods.	Ensure sufficient funds and a secure connection.
6. Confirmation	Receive confirmation via email or directly on the purchase portal.	Keep this confirmation for your records.

For private consumers purchasing online from ASFINAG, there is an 18-day waiting period before the vignette becomes valid, due to consumer protection laws. This period does not apply to purchases made at physical sales points or by businesses.

3. Payment Troubleshooting & Common Issues

Occasionally, issues can arise during the toll payment process. We offer guidance on common problems and how to resolve them.

Vignette Not Validated

If you believe your vignette was not properly registered or validated, we explain how to verify its status online and what steps to take if there's an error. This often involves checking the ASFINAG portal with your registration number.

Payment Declined

Guidance on common reasons for payment failures (e.g., incorrect card details, insufficient funds, bank security blocks) and recommended actions, such as contacting your bank or trying an alternative payment method.

Incorrect Registration Number

Information on procedures for correcting errors in your vehicle registration number after purchase. This is critical as an incorrect number renders the vignette invalid.

GO-Box Malfunctions

Advice for heavy vehicle operators experiencing issues with their GO-Box, including error messages, battery concerns, and what to do if the device is not registering properly.

4. Refund Guidance and Policies

Understanding when and how you can obtain a refund for tolls or vignettes is important. Our guidance clarifies the conditions and procedures.

Digital Vignette Refund Policy

For private consumers purchasing online, the 18-day cooling-off period under consumer protection law allows for cancellation and a full refund, provided the vignette's validity start date has not passed and the request is made within 14 days of purchase. Once the vignette is valid, refunds are generally only possible under specific circumstances, such as total loss of the vehicle or permanent deregistration, and usually require official documentation.

Physical Vignette Refund Policy

Physical sticker vignettes are typically non-refundable once purchased, except in very limited circumstances such as a manufacturing defect. Unlike digital vignettes, the cooling-off period does not apply to physical stickers bought at sales points.

Route-Specific Toll Refunds

Refunds for route-specific tolls are rare and usually only apply in cases of double payment due to system errors. Documentation of both payments would be required.

GO-Box Refunds/Credit

Remaining credit on a pre-pay GO-Box can typically be refunded upon return of the device, subject to administrative fees. Specific procedures apply for returning and de-registering the GO-Box.