Vignette Purchasing Guide

Navigating German roads, especially when encountering tunnels and bridges, requires proper documentation. One crucial element is the vignette. This guide will walk you through the process of purchasing and displaying your vignette correctly for driving in Germany.

A German autobahn with a tunnel entrance and a bridge in the distance. Signs indicating vignette requirements are visible.

Steps to Purchase Your Vignette

  1. Determine Your Needs: Assess the duration of your stay and the type of vehicle you'll be driving. Vignettes are available for 10 days, 2 months, or 1 year.
  2. Choose a Purchase Location: Vignettes can be bought at:
    • Border crossings
    • Gas stations near the border
    • Online through the official German road authority website
  3. Provide Vehicle Information: You'll need to provide your vehicle's license plate number and the vehicle type (car, motorcycle, etc.).
  4. Make the Payment: Prices vary based on duration. Be prepared to pay in Euros or with a major credit card.
  5. Receive Your Vignette: If purchasing in person, you'll receive a physical sticker. For online purchases, you'll get a digital confirmation.

Displaying Your Vignette

Proper display is crucial to avoid fines when driving through German tunnels and over bridges:

  • For physical vignettes, affix the sticker to the inside of your windshield, typically in the upper left or right corner.
  • Ensure the vignette is clearly visible and not obstructed by other stickers or sun visors.
  • For digital vignettes, keep the confirmation email or printout with you while driving.

Additional Tips for Driving in Germany

  • Familiarize yourself with German road signs, particularly those related to tunnels and bridges.
  • Be prepared for toll roads, which may require additional payments separate from your vignette.
  • Keep your headlights on when driving through tunnels, even during daylight hours.
  • Observe speed limits, which can change frequently, especially on bridges or approaching tunnels.
A driver affixing a vignette sticker to their car windshield with a German bridge visible in the background

By following this guide, you'll ensure that you're properly equipped to navigate Germany's impressive network of roads, tunnels, and bridges. Remember, a valid vignette is your ticket to exploring the engineering marvels of German infrastructure safely and legally.