Italy: Toll Cashback for Construction Traffic Jams Launches Now
Toll Refund in Italy Possible Since June 2026
Since 1 June 2026, the announced toll cashback system in Italy has officially come into force. Under certain conditions, drivers can have part of the motorway toll they paid refunded if significant delays occur due to roadworks.
We have already reported in detail on the background to the new regulation, the planned changes, and the goals of the Italian transport regulatory authority. For more information, please see our article "Italy Plans Toll Refund for Traffic Jams".
How Travellers Can Apply for a Refund
The refund can be requested via the official cashback portal of the Italian motorway operators. Travellers from abroad can also use the system.
To apply as an unregistered user, all that is needed is a toll receipt and a valid email address. The receipt can be used approximately four hours after passing through. After submitting the application, users receive a code by email, which allows them to track the status of their refund online at any time.
Also Available to German Holidaymakers
The use of the cashback portal is expressly also intended for foreign vehicle owners. Registration is only required if an electronic toll system such as Telepass is used or if regular refund applications are to be submitted.
Anyone wishing to register will, however, need an Italian tax number (Codice Fiscale) or an Italian VAT identification number for companies. For a one-off refund application, registration is not necessary.
The Toll System in Italy: Here's How It Works!
Independently of the new cashback system, the existing toll system continues to apply in Italy. Unlike countries such as Austria or Switzerland, there is no vignette requirement. Instead, a distance-based toll is charged on most motorways, which depends on the distance travelled and the vehicle class.
In practice, this means that drivers take a ticket when entering the motorway and pay the fee when leaving. In addition to the classic closed toll system, some routes also have flat-rate fees or modern free-flow systems, where the licence plate is automatically recorded and no stopping is required.
In Italy, additional costs may also arise, for example for certain tunnels, mountain passes, or access routes to city centres with traffic-restricted zones. Good route planning therefore helps to avoid unexpected charges. For more information on tolls in Italy, please see our guide.
The Europamaut Team Wishes You a Pleasant Journey!
With us, you regularly receive the most important news about toll and traffic regulations in Europe. If you are planning a trip to Italy, it is best to inform yourself in advance about the applicable toll regulations in Italy. You are welcome to use our route planner for your travel planning. Our support team is also available by email around the clock for any questions.
FAQ: Toll Cashback in Italy
Who Can Apply for a Toll Refund in Italy?
The toll cashback system is available to both Italian and foreign drivers. German holidaymakers can also apply for a refund, provided the requirements are met.
When Did the New Cashback System Come Into Effect?
The regulation came into force on 1 June 2026 and initially applies to motorway sections managed by a single operator. From 1 December 2026, the system is set to be extended to routes with multiple operators.
How Do I Apply for a Refund?
The refund can be requested via the official cashback portal of the Italian motorway operators. Unregistered users only need their toll receipt and a valid email address.
Do I Need to Register for the Cashback System?
No. For a one-off application, no registration is required. Registration is primarily intended for users of electronic toll systems such as Telepass or for frequent travellers.
What Documents Are Required for the Application?
To apply as an unregistered user, you need the toll receipt for the journey in question and an email address.
Can German Holidaymakers Also Use the Toll Cashback?
Yes. The system is expressly also intended for travellers from abroad.
When Can I Submit the Application?
The toll receipt can generally be used for the application approximately four hours after passing through.
How Will I Know Whether My Application Is Being Processed?
After submitting the application, you will receive an individual code by email. You can use this to track the processing status of your refund online.
Is a Refund Available for Every Delay?
No. A refund is only granted under certain conditions. Whether a claim exists depends, among other things, on the duration of the delay and the respective conditions of the system. For more information, please see our latest news article on the implementation of toll refunds in Italy.
Do I Need an Italian Tax Number as a German Driver?
No, provided you apply for the refund as an unregistered user. An Italian tax number (Codice Fiscale) is only required for registration.