VIDEO: First portal for new Croatian motorway toll collection system goes up

(Screenshot/Crolibertas/YouTube)

Croatia is set to modernise its motorway toll collection system after Parliament on Monday approved a new law introducing a single, fully electronic tolling system across the national motorway network from 1 March 2027.

The new system aims to significantly ease congestion, improve traffic flow and reduce waiting times by allowing vehicles to pass through toll points without stopping, even at motorway speeds of up to 130 kilometres per hour.

Work on the physical infrastructure is already underway. On the A3 motorway between Popovača and Kutina, the first fully equipped tolling portal for the new Crolibertas system has been installed, Hrvatske autoceste (HAC) said.

The portal, measuring 33 metres in length and weighing 10 tonnes, was erected in a single piece due to its modular design.

Because of its size, installation was technically demanding. Cameras and antennas were mounted earlier this week.

Installation of the first seven portals on the A3 section between Popovača and Novska began in early November, while work on additional portals on the A4 Zagreb–Goričan motorway is set to begin this week.

How the new system will work

The future tolling model will combine two internationally proven technologies:

• Automatic Licence Plate Recognition (ALPR), which will identify vehicles using cameras and enable toll payment for light vehicles through registered number plates.

• DSRC technology, used by existing ENC electronic devices, primarily for heavy vehicles and other users who choose to continue using onboard tags.

Under the new rules, light vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes will need to register their licence plate and link it to a valid payment method. Heavy vehicles will be required to use ENC devices alongside number plate recognition.

Drivers will be able to register and manage their toll payments through a national online platform, a mobile app, other digital services, fast-track entry lanes, or at motorway operator offices and authorised third-party sales points.

Cash payments will still be possible

Authorities have emphasised that cash payments are not being abolished, despite public concern. However, they will no longer be made at traditional toll booths when exiting the motorway.

Instead, drivers who prefer to pay in cash will be able to do so at Hrvatske autoceste (HAC) offices, concessionaire sales points and other authorised outlets. Each user will be able to choose the payment method that suits them best.

Transition period and remaining toll booths

During a transition phase, some toll booths will remain at motorway entrances. These will be unmanned and without barriers, serving as part of the gradual shift to the new free-flow system.

In total, 212 tolling portals will be installed across Croatia’s motorway network. The project includes:

• Installation of advanced IT and communications equipment
• Construction works carried out while traffic remains in operation
• Establishment of back-office data processing centres
• Continuous testing of each portal and system component

Once all portals and associated equipment are installed, comprehensive system-wide testing will be carried out before full implementation.

The introduction of a single electronic tolling system represents one of the most significant upgrades to Croatia’s motorway infrastructure in decades.

By removing physical barriers and stopping points, the system is expected to deliver smoother journeys, lower congestion and a more modern driving experience for both domestic and international road users.

The new system is scheduled to become fully operational on 1 March 2027, marking the start of a new era for travel on Croatia’s motorways.