The Croatian government has sent its final proposal for the new toll collection law to Parliament, paving the way for a fully electronic, barrier-free tolling system set to launch on 1 March 2027.
Minister of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure Oleg Butković said the legislation creates, for the first time, a unified legal framework for electronic toll collection across the entire motorway network.
Until now, toll collection has been regulated through the Road Act. The new law specifically governs the toll system and introduces the obligation to implement a nationwide electronic toll model based on free-flow traffic.
Two Technologies: ENC and Licence Plate Recognition
The upcoming system will rely on two key technologies:
Butković noted that the new model allows free-flow traffic without stopping at toll plazas, unlike the current systems operated by Hrvatske autoceste and Bina-Istra. Autocesta Zagreb–Macelj, he pointed out, currently has no electronic tolling at all.
The bill is proposed under an urgent procedure to ensure timely implementation of the project.
Faster Travel, Less Congestion
The new tolling system is expected to deliver multiple benefits:
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faster traffic flow and fewer bottlenecks
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reduced fuel consumption and emissions
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easier use for domestic drivers and tourists
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higher road safety and smoother traffic
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improved monitoring and enforcement
Non-payment of tolls will officially become an offence to deter illegal motorway use. The project will be partly financed by €130 million in grants from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NPOO).
How the New System Will Work
From 1 March 2027, all Croatian motorways will operate under the Electronic Toll Collection System (ESNC)—a model without toll booths or stopping.
For light vehicles (up to 3.5 tonnes), toll payment will be linked to licence plates and a valid payment method. For heavy vehicles, ENC devices and camera-based plate recognition remain mandatory.
Drivers will be able to register for ESNC through:
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a national online registration portal
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a dedicated mobile app
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other authorised digital services
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special roadside fast-registration lanes
Registration will also be available in customer service offices of motorway operators and at authorised partner sales points.
Penalties for Driving Without Registration
Under the proposed law, any driver using a tolled section without registering in the system will be required to pay the toll for the distance travelled plus a special penalty fee, defined by law to discourage non-payment.
If adopted, the new toll system represents one of the most significant upgrades to Croatia’s motorway infrastructure in decades, ushering in a faster, cleaner and more modern era of motorway travel.