Traffic rules in Slovakia

In Slovakia, different traffic rules apply than in Germany. The condition of the roads and, for example, the speed limits also show clear differences compared to Germany.

To help you prepare for driving conditions in Slovakia, you can find the general traffic rules and important information about driving in Slovakia here.

The most important points at a glance

What you need to keep in mind

A German driving licence is sufficient; however, you should obtain an international driving permit or a new national driving licence if you have an older licence. Drivers who are not the vehicle owner must carry an authorisation from the owner. You must also carry the vehicle registration certificate Part I.

As proof of valid motor third-party liability insurance, the German licence plate is sufficient, but we recommend carrying the Green Card (International Motor Insurance Card). This shows that your car is insured for third-party liability and you can request it free of charge from your motor insurer. It is also advisable to check with your insurer before travelling to ensure you have adequate coverage.

Carrying a high-visibility vest is mandatory for the driver, but in the event of an accident or breakdown, all persons must wear a high-visibility vest when leaving the vehicle. That is why it is recommended to carry as many vests as there are people in the car.

A warning triangle and a first-aid kit must also be carried. Cars registered in Slovakia must carry a spare tyre.

Toll: vignette or distance-based toll

A vignette is required on all motorways and expressways for vehicles up to 3.5 t permissible total weight as well as motorhomes regardless of weight. You can find detailed information in our guide on vehicle categories. Motorcycles are exempt. Roads and sections marked with “BEZ UHRADY” are toll-free. The marking appears on a road sign.

If you choose to buy an electronic or digital vignette, the vehicle licence plate and the country of vehicle registration are stored. You should check the purchase receipt for accuracy because you may need to present it during an inspection. Buy your digital vignette for your trip to Slovenia from us now!

For vehicles over 3.5 t permissible total weight, excluding motorhomes, a distance-based toll applies. This is handled using an on-board unit (OBU). This applies on motorways, expressways and certain selected road sections.

Speed limits

Cars/motorcycles

Vehicle combination, e.g. a car with trailer (up to 3.5 t permissible total weight)

Light motorhome (up to 3.5 t permissible total weight)

Heavy motorhome (over 3.5 t permissible total weight)

From 30 m before railway crossings and when crossing the tracks, the speed limit is 30 km/h.

Traffic rules

Of course, Germany and Slovakia share some rules. However, there are also clear differences you need to be aware of. It is important to follow and accept the traffic rules to avoid stressful situations and accidents.

Use of radar detectors and mobile phones

Using or carrying radar detectors in operational condition is prohibited. When the engine is running, using a mobile phone is prohibited.

Blood alcohol limit

The blood alcohol limit is 0.0. Offences are punished strictly in Slovakia and can range from a driving ban to imprisonment. The blood alcohol limit also applies when cycling.

Stopping and parking

When parking, you must ensure that at least 3 m of lane width per direction remains clear. Between a parked vehicle and the tram, even 3.5 m.

Lights

On all roads, it is mandatory during the day all year round to drive with low-beam headlights or daytime running lights.

Tyres

Motor vehicles up to 3.5 t permissible total weight must be equipped with winter tyres (M+S marking) or all-season tyres in winter driving conditions. Vehicles over 3.5 t permissible total weight must be equipped with winter tyres from 15 November to 31 March of the following year, regardless of whether winter conditions prevail. The minimum tread depth must be at least 3 mm. Snow chains may be fitted to all vehicles when there is snow on the roads.

Road conditions

Since Slovakia consists two-thirds of the Carpathian mountain region, the inhabited areas of the country are mainly located in basins. These are connected by a well-developed network of long-distance roads.

On secondary roads and in mountainous areas, however, you should drive carefully, as you may also encounter roads with potholes and lower quality. If you are planning an excursion into the beautiful mountain landscape, it is best to familiarise yourself with the roads there in advance so you can also enjoy the view.

Refuelling and charging

Petrol stations can be found throughout all parts of Slovakia. In mountainous regions and rural areas, petrol stations are not as common as in cities and along motorways. That means you should ideally fill up beforehand if, for example, you plan to drive into the mountains.

Charging is possible in western Slovakia, especially in the catchment area of the capital Bratislava. In the east there are hardly any charging stations, which is why trips there in an electric car should be planned particularly well. Hydrogen filling stations so far exist only near Bratislava and in the surrounding area.

Rental cars

Although you are allowed to drive a car from the age of 18 in Slovakia, a rental car can only be hired from 19. In addition, young driver fees for drivers under 24 may apply.

Fines

In the event of traffic offences, the Slovak police may impose fines. The amount of the fine is at the discretion of the officer. Alcohol-related offences are punished particularly strictly.

Excerpt from the fine catalogue: https://www.bussgeldkatalog.org/slowakei/

Other penalties

The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant trip

Driving in Slovakia is very similar to driving in Germany. Nevertheless, there are small differences that can have a big impact, such as the rules on the blood alcohol limit or the different speed limits. If you familiarise yourself with the rules and purchase a digital vignette from us, you will be well prepared.

We wish you a pleasant trip to Slovakia and lots of enjoyment on your exploration of this diverse country. Further information about tolls in Slovakia can be found in our guide. Feel free to use our route planner to plan your trip and see suitable toll products. If you have any questions, you can reach us at any time by email.

Michelle Albrecht
Hallo, ich bin Michelle und schreibe für mein Leben gern. Als Texterin habe ich meine Leidenschaft zum Beruf gemacht! Natürlich lasse ich meiner Kreativität auch in meinen eigenen Büchern freien Lauf. Seit ich ein halbes Jahr in Australien gelebt habe, ist meine Reiselust noch größer geworden (und ich hätte nie gedacht, dass das noch möglich ist). Umso mehr freue ich mich, meinen Leserinnen und Lesern Tipps für ihre zukünftigen Abenteuer zu geben!