Are there tolls on highways in Germany?

Post ByAdequate Travel

Summary

Germany is known for its excellent transportation network, but do drivers have to pay to use it? The answer may surprise you, as there is a surprising variety of toll locations throughout the country – this blog post looks at the facts and figures behind highway tolling in Germany.

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Yes, there are tolls on highways in Germany. However, it is important to note that the toll system in Germany is primarily applicable to certain vehicles, mainly trucks. Private cars and motorcycles are generally exempt from toll charges on the Autobahn.

1. Toll System for Trucks:

The toll system for trucks in Germany is known as the "LKW-Maut" (Heavy Goods Vehicle Toll). It was introduced in 2005 and is administered by Toll Collect GmbH. This toll applies to trucks with a maximum permissible weight of 7.5 tons or more, as well as to trucks with trailers, semi-trailers, and buses.

2. Toll Calculation:

The toll amount is calculated based on several factors, including the distance traveled on highways subject to tolls and the vehicle's emission class. Each truck is equipped with an onboard unit (OBU) that calculates the toll charges automatically by communicating with toll gantries that are installed along the highways.

3. Toll Collect GmbH:

Toll Collect GmbH is responsible for managing and collecting toll charges in Germany. This company is a joint venture between Deutsche Telekom, Daimler AG, and Cofiroute. They operate the necessary toll infrastructure, develop the toll system, and provide customer services related to toll payments.

4. Toll Exemptions and Discounts:

Certain vehicles are exempt from the toll charges, including emergency services vehicles, military vehicles, and public transportation buses. Additionally, some vehicles that meet certain environmental criteria may be eligible for toll discounts or reduced rates. These discounts are provided to encourage the use of cleaner, more environmentally-friendly vehicles.

Example 1:

A truck with a maximum permissible weight of 12 tons and a semi-trailer travels a certain distance on the German Autobahn subject to tolls. The truck's OBU calculates the toll charges based on the distance traveled and its emission class. The truck's owner or driver is then billed for the toll charges by Toll Collect GmbH.

Example 2:

A private car or motorcycle traveling on the Autobahn in Germany would not be subject to toll charges. However, it's important to note that there are certain sections of highways in Germany, known as "private motorway concession sections" or "autobahnprivatisierung," that charge tolls for all vehicles, including private cars. These sections are relatively rare and are usually clearly signposted.

Are there tolls on highways in Germany?

Post ByAdequate Travel

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