We have already reported several times on the changes to the Croatian toll system, from the planned introduction of electronic vignettes on January 1, 2024 (early 2024) to the decision on which company will implement the new toll system (Summer 2024). There is now renewed movement on the issue of tolls on Croatian highways: by the last quarter of 2026 at the latest, the country wants to switch from traditional toll stations with barriers and cash payments to a digital free-flow system.
Goodbye to traffic jams on Croatian highways: after the 2026 summer season, but no later than the last quarter of 2026, the country will switch from traditional toll stations with barriers and cash payments to a digital free-flow system, reports maut1.de in a recent article. For drivers, this means no more waiting times, cashless payment, and comfortable travel.
The basis for this is a new law that will completely abolish cash payments at toll stations; tolls can then only be paid electronically. The new system combines various payment options such as credit cards, apps, partner locations, or toll boxes. Anyone who cannot present a valid electronic ticket will face fines – even in the case of unintentional non-payment, according to the news portal.
How does the new free-flow toll system in Croatia work?
There will be automatic license plate recognition (ALPR), a form of recording that drivers are already familiar with from airport parking areas and modern parking lots. A toll box (“ENC device”) will be mandatory in trucks and buses, but optional for cars and motorcycles, reports maut1.de.
The advantages of the new digital free-flow system for travelers and vacationers are obvious: fewer traffic jams, more throughput—traditional toll stations can only handle around 200 vehicles per hour. The new system can handle up to 3,000 vehicles per hour—a major advantage for a traffic jam-free vacation season.
Payment is made via license plate or toll box, credit card, apps, or partner locations. No cash and no change also means no delays. Please note: anyone who is not correctly registered risks an increased toll charge in accordance with the general terms and conditions of the Croatian toll operators.
