With summer holidays just around the corner, many drivers are getting ready to hit the road. But those planning to drive in Portugal, either with their own car or a rental, should be aware of a lesser-known toll system that could lead to fines if not handled correctly.
Unlike Spain and Italy, which still use traditional toll booths with barriers, many Portuguese motorways operate with barrier-free electronic tolls. These “free-flow” systems are similar to those recently introduced in France, but they’ve been in place for years in Portugal – and many foreign drivers remain unaware of how they work.
No booths, no barriers – just cameras
On several key motorways, including the A6 between Lisbon and Évora and the A22 along the Algarve coast, there are no toll booths or tickets. Instead, overhead gantries equipped with cameras automatically register vehicles as they pass through. Signs indicating "Electronic toll" or a euro symbol with waves mark these sections, but drivers may easily miss them at motorway speeds.
To avoid fines, it’s essential to register in advance. Options include linking your licence plate to a bank card, purchasing prepaid toll credit at selected post offices or petrol stations, or using an electronic toll badge (some French toll badges also work in Portugal).
A common mistake is assuming you can pay later without consequences. In reality, Portuguese law sets a strict deadline: tolls must be paid within 15 business days.
Since July 2024, fines for missing the deadline have been capped – the minimum is €25, and the maximum is five times the toll, up to €50. Before this reform, some drivers were billed up to seven times the toll amount.
If payment is missed, Portuguese authorities send the invoice to the vehicle owner. If still unpaid, the case may be passed on to the national tax office, which can take enforcement action – even leading to bank account seizures in serious cases.
Best to avoid trouble
To steer clear of penalties, travellers are advised to register online ahead of time, sign up for an electronic toll system, or buy prepaid toll credit.
Most importantly, keep an eye out for the traditional toll booths where available by staying clear of the lanes marked with waves. There, the option remains to pay with cash or card.
