ADAC: Errors with digital vignettes in Austria can prove costly

Austria is moving entirely to digital vignettes from February 2027, at which point the traditional sticker vignettes will be abolished. ADAC, Germany's largest automobile club, has issued a warning to consumers about common errors when purchasing digital vignettes.

The most significant risk involves incorrect entry of the license plate number. If there are errors, such as transposed digits in the registration number, authorities may treat it as toll evasion, leading to a substitute toll of 200 euros. To avoid penalties, incorrect details must be corrected immediately if possible.

ADAC also emphasizes the importance of retaining the purchase receipt for the digital vignette. While payment status can often be verified in the system in real-time, a receipt can simplify resolving potential issues. Registered users and app users can check vignette validity through their accounts or a dedicated search function.

Consumers are also cautioned about unofficial online portals, as many websites sell digital vignettes at inflated prices without being authorized vendors. ADAC advises checking the seller's credibility before making a purchase.

The digital vignette can also be purchased "analogue" at Austrian kiosks, gas stations, and ADAC sales points. For online purchases, the 1-day and 10-day vignettes are valid immediately, while the 2-month and annual vignettes become valid after the legally required 18-day cooling-off period. The 2026 vignette is valid from December 1, 2025, through the end of January 2027.