Before you set off, it's worth knowing which sections are subject to tolls – the rules depend on the road operator and vehicle weight. Passenger cars travel free on state highways, but only pay on concession sections. Vehicles over 3,5 tons pay through the government e-TOLL system. Below, you'll find how to recognize toll roads, where to find current price lists, and how to conveniently pay for your trip from your phone, including using the Skycash Transport app.
Current map and list of toll road sections
The toll system on Polish expressways is divided into state-owned sections and sections managed by private concessionaires. Currently, only the concession sections of the A1, A2, and A4 motorways remain toll-paying for passenger cars, with rates set by the concessionaire. State motorways and expressways are free for them. Vehicles over 3,5 tonnes pay tolls on a much broader network of routes via the e-TOLL system.
You can find a current map of toll roads and their price lists on the official service providers' websites – it allows you to estimate the cost of your journey and also suggest free alternatives. The data is subject to change, so be sure to check it regularly before embarking on a longer journey.
Which roads in Poland are tolled for passenger cars and trucks?
The toll system is closely linked to the vehicle's gross vehicle weight. Passenger car drivers pay only for using the concession sections of the A1, A2, and A4 motorways, which are managed by concessionaires. As of July 1, 2023, passenger cars and motorcycles are free to use state expressways. Different rules apply to heavy goods vehicles. Vehicles exceeding 3,5 tons must use the electronic e-TOLL system. This system covers a wide network of routes, and the toll amount depends on several factors:
- travel on almost all highways,
- use of the expressway network,
- selected sections of national roads,
- vehicle weight category,
- engine exhaust emission standard.
An exception applies to passenger cars with trailers. If the total weight of such a combination exceeds 3,5 tons, the driver also pays the toll through the e-TOLL system. Correct vehicle classification helps avoid penalties for failure to pay the toll.
How to recognize a toll road by road signs?
You'll recognize the toll road section by its signage. The main signal is the D-49 "Toll Collection" sign, which warns of an approaching toll booth, usually 1000 meters before the toll gates. It's also worth checking for signs under motorway and expressway signs specifying the rules of travel:
- D-49 "Toll collection" – warns about the toll collection point on the main roadway,
- D-9 – means highway,
- D-7 – means expressway,
- T-28 – a “toll” sign under the D-9 or D-7 sign informs that a fee is charged for the journey,
- T-28a – marks the end of the toll section.
Roads subject to the e-TOLL electronic toll are additionally marked with a T-34 sign located below the road number. Carefully reading these signs before entering is the easiest way to avoid missing a toll section and avoiding a fine.
Apps and calculators for planning road tolls
Official tools and apps make cost planning easier. You can estimate your expenses on state roads using the calculator at etoll.gov.pl, and check rates on concession sections directly with their managers – they depend on the vehicle category.
If you're driving a passenger car on toll-paying concession sections, you can conveniently pay for your trip using your phone using the Skycash Transport app. You register your vehicle, provide your registration number, and select your payment method. The fee is automatically collected based on license plate reading (video tolling)—no stopping or searching for cash, and you can use the dedicated lane at the toll gates. Skycash Transport This method of toll collection covers the A1 Gdańsk–Toruń and A4 Katowice–Kraków routes, among others. Vehicles over 3,5 tonnes pay through the government's e-TOLL system by installing an OBU or ZSL on-board unit, which automatically calculates the toll using GNSS satellite technology. Some toll gates on concession routes still accept cash and card payments.
Planning a route that avoids toll sections
Most navigation apps have a toll avoidance feature – when enabled, the route follows national roads. However, a free detour isn't always cheaper. Before choosing a route, compare the length of both options, the expected fuel consumption (especially in built-up areas), the current rates for toll roads and the total travel time, as well as the number of speed limits along the route. A cost calculator will help you compare fuel costs with tolls and choose the more reasonable option. Set up your navigation before you set off, not while driving.
What are the consequences of not paying the toll road fee?
Driving on a toll road without paying the toll carries a financial penalty. Under the e-TOLL system, the penalty is PLN 500 for passenger cars (including passenger car/trailer combinations weighing over 3,5 tons) and PLN 1500 for trucks and buses. The National Revenue Administration (KAS) conducts inspections. It's worth knowing the fine settlement rules:
- inspections are carried out by mobile KAS patrols and cameras reading license plates,
- the deadline for payment of the imposed penalty is 14 days,
- settling the amount due within 7 days reduces the fine by PLN 100,
- Emergency and uniformed service vehicles are exempt from road tolls, among others.
The easiest way to avoid a fine is to have your toll paid before entering the toll section – check your payment app before starting.