As you probably know, in Poland, motorways A1, A2, and A4 (and several other sections) currently require a mandatory road toll for all vehicles.
In this article, we’ll explain the existing methods for vignette payment in Poland.
The New e-TOLL System in Poland
On June 1, 2021, Poland launched a new electronic road toll collection system called e-TOLL, which completely replaced the previous viaTOLL system on September 30, 2021.
Unlike viaTOLL, the new e-TOLL system for vignette payment in Poland is based on Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) vehicle tracking. This means that commercial vehicles over 3.5 tons must regularly transmit their location data to the Polish system to determine the applicable toll fees.
So, how does the vignette payment in Poland work, and how can vehicles connect to the new e-TOLL system?
Currently, there are four main options available:
- Manual payment
- A compatible On-Board Unit (OBU) – see our available devices
- A mobile application
- An External Location System (ELS) installed by an authorized provider
Manual Vignette Payment in Poland
Payment Timing
The methods differ depending on when the payment is made—upon entry to the toll section or exit from it. Polish authorities distinguish between two systems:
- Open system (system otwarty) – payment is made upon entering the toll road; the upcoming journey is prepaid. This is an older system and often leads to long queues.
- Closed system (system zamknięty) – at the entry point, a ticket is issued that records the start of the journey, and payment is made at the exit, based on the actual distance traveled.
It’s essential to know in advance which payment method applies. Losing or failing to receive the ticket in a closed system results in being charged for the entire toll section, regardless of actual mileage.
Payment Methods
Payments can be made in cash or by card (Visa, MasterCard, Maestro).
Accepted currencies: Polish zloty (PLN), euros (EUR), and US dollars (USD).
However, if you pay in cash, any change will be given only in Polish zloty.
Service Method
A toll operator may manually collect payment and lift the barrier, though more toll points are now automated.
Automatic systems handle ticket issuance, mileage calculation, and payment processing—card only.
However, entry lanes are narrow and restricted. If you enter a lane that doesn’t match your payment method, you may have to wait for a long queue of vehicles to reverse before you can exit.
OBU (On-Board Unit)
A certified OBU device approved by the Polish toll authority can connect directly to the e-TOLL system.
An OBU (On-Board Unit) enables automatic vignette payment in Poland for toll road usage.
After obtaining the unit, follow the user manual specific to your device. You must register it on the e-TOLL platform and assign it to a particular vehicle. Installation must be carried out according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Approved OBUs (which have passed the official e-TOLL compatibility test) are available through certified distributors.
We recommend this option because it offers the lowest operating costs for transport companies and does not rely on a mobile phone, which drivers might forget to charge or accidentally turn off—potentially leading to fines or data errors.
ELS Unit (Accredited External Location System)
Vehicles can also connect to e-TOLL through an ELS device installed in the vehicle. These solutions are provided by external companies and typically require a subscription fee.
If you are a new user, contact one of the operators listed on the Polish Ministry of Finance website who have passed the official e-TOLL compatibility test. The operator will install the ELS unit in your vehicle and activate the e-TOLL service.
Make sure to register both the vehicle and the ELS device in the e-TOLL system.
Before purchasing any unit, verify that both the device and the provider are officially approved by e-TOLL.
e-TOLL Mobile Application
The e-TOLL mobile app is available for free on Google Play and the App Store.
It allows drivers to pay tolls, top up and monitor their account balance, and fulfill obligations related to the SENT-GEO system for the transport of sensitive goods.
However, this method has some disadvantages. Drivers must maintain a constant connection with the e-TOLL system, consuming battery power and mobile data. If the signal drops, fines may be issued by Polish toll authorities.
Why Choose CargoTrack for Vignette Payment in Poland?
Using CargoTrack’s e-TOLL automatic toll payment services brings several advantages:
- Automatic route recording and toll payment – once vehicle data is entered, it’s automatically transmitted to the authorities, reducing the risk of costly errors.
- Real-time monitoring and accuracy control – CargoTrack continuously ensures that tracking devices transmit correct data in real time.
- Flexible route changes – you can modify your journey without worrying about incorrect toll calculations.
How Does the Vignette Payment in Poland Work with CargoTrack?
- A contract is signed between your company and CargoTrack.
- After installing and verifying the devices, vehicle registration begins in the e-TOLL system.
- A virtual account is created to store all vehicle information.
- You must top up this account to cover upcoming road usage.
- You’ll receive email and SMS notifications confirming vehicle activation in e-TOLL.
- Once confirmed, you can drive freely—toll payments are made automatically.
Choose CargoTrack for Vignette Payment in Poland | e-TOLL
Cross Poland, Hungary, and Bulgaria seamlessly using just one toll payment device with CargoTrack services.
