Fines for speeding in Slovakia
Fines in Slovakia are structured based on the extent to which the speed limit is exceeded. The penalties are as follows:
- Within Built-up Areas:
- Exceeding by up to 6 km/h: Warning.
- Exceeding by 6–10 km/h: €20.
- Exceeding by 10–15 km/h: €40.
- Exceeding by 15–19 km/h: €50.
- Exceeding by 19–25 km/h: €90.
- Exceeding by 25–30 km/h: €140.
- Exceeding by 30–35 km/h: €200.
- Exceeding by 35–40 km/h: €280.
- Exceeding by 40–45 km/h: €360.
- Exceeding by 45–50 km/h: €440.
- Exceeding by 50–55 km/h: €540.
- Exceeding by 55–60 km/h: €650.
- Exceeding by over 60 km/h: Determined by the Inspectorate for Transport.
- Outside Built-up Areas:
- Exceeding by up to 6 km/h: Warning.
- Exceeding by 6–15 km/h: €20.
- Exceeding by 15–25 km/h: €40.
- Exceeding by 25–29 km/h: €50.
- Exceeding by 29–35 km/h: €130.
- Exceeding by 35–40 km/h: €200.
- Exceeding by 40–45 km/h: €300.
- Exceeding by 45–50 km/h: €400.
- Exceeding by 50–55 km/h: €520.
- Exceeding by 55–60 km/h: €650.
- Exceeding by over 60 km/h: Determined by the Inspectorate for Transport.
Additional Penalties:
- License Suspension: Significant violations may result in the suspension of the driver’s license, with the duration determined by the severity of the offense.
Do I need to purchase Vignette?
In Slovakia, there is a vignette system for passenger vehicles that applies to highways and some expressways. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Who Needs a Vignette?
- Vignette required for vehicles using Slovak motorways (dálnice) and some expressways (rýchlostné cesty).
- The vignette applies to passenger cars and light vehicles. Larger vehicles (trucks, buses) are subject to a different toll system.
2. Where to Buy a Vignette
- Online: Vignettes can be purchased online via the official website or through the e-vignette system.
- Gas Stations: You can also buy physical vignettes at gas stations, kiosks, and at border crossings when entering Slovakia.
- At Border Crossings: If you’re driving into Slovakia from a neighboring country, you can buy the vignette directly at the border.
3. Vignette Prices
- Passenger Vehicles: The price depends on the duration of the vignette:
- 10-day vignette: Approximately €10.
- 1-month vignette: Around €14.
- 1-year vignette: Around €50.
- Larger Vehicles: Trucks and buses are charged based on the distance traveled, with higher rates for heavier vehicles.
4. Where to Use the Vignette
- The vignette is required for driving on motorways (dálnice) and some expressways (rýchlostné cesty). The vignette is valid for all public roads within Slovakia that fall under these categories.
5. Enforcement of the Vignette
- Roadside Checks: Police and road inspectors will check vehicles for valid vignettes. If you do not have one, you could be fined.
- The fine for driving without a valid vignette can be up to €150 or more, depending on the violation.
6. Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Non-Payment of Vignette: If you’re caught driving on a motorway without a valid vignette, you could face fines from €150 to €200.
- Toll Booth Violations (for larger vehicles): Trucks and buses must follow the toll system and could face fines for non-payment of toll fees.
7. Additional Information
- Environmental Zones: Slovakia does not currently have low-emission zones (LEZs) in cities, but it’s always a good idea to check local regulations when driving into larger cities such as Bratislava.
- Toll-Free Roads: Smaller roads and rural routes are typically toll-free, so you can use them to avoid tolls if desired.
8. Tips for Travelers
- Purchase Vignette Before Entering Slovakia: Make sure to buy the vignette before entering Slovakia to avoid fines. You can easily buy it online or at border points.
- Check Validity: Ensure that your vignette covers the duration of your stay in Slovakia.
- Be Aware of Toll Roads: Pay attention to road signs that indicate toll roads, as well as areas where the vignette is required.