In the absence of a valid vignette for the vehicle on paid sections of roads in Bulgaria, drivers are subject to sanctions.The main penalty for not having a vignette is a fine, which can vary depending on the type of vehicle.For cars, the fine can be between 150 and 300 euros, and for trucks –even higher.The fine is imposed upon inspection by the traffic police or other control authorities (such as BG TOLL) that carry out inspections on the roads.See what a compensatory fee is.
What is a compensatory fee?
The compensatory charge is a charge that the driver must pay in the event that he is caught without a valid vignette, but has managed to purchase one within a certain period of time after the offence.This fee is imposed in addition to the basic fine and is a payment for using the toll roads without a valid vignette.The purpose of the compensatory fee is to motivate drivers to be more responsible and to purchase the vignettes in a timely manner.
📌 The compensatory fee for cars up to 3.5t when driving without a valid vignette in Bulgaria is 35 euros – this is the amount you can pay within the specified period to avoid a higher fine.
✅ How it works:
If you are caught without a paid vignette and pay a compensatory fee within 24 hours of receiving the electronic receipt, this ends the administrative proceedings and no higher fine is imposed.
If it is not paid within this period, a criminal decree will be issued and the standard fine of approx. 150 euros for the first violation is already due.
Where is the compensation fee paid?
The compensation fee can be paid in different ways.
- Online
Via the Internet on platforms providing information about vignettes and penalties, such as the official website of the Road Infrastructure Agency.
2.Through mobile applications
There are dedicated apps that allow drivers to pay the compensatory fee as well as purchase a vignette.
- In the offices of API
In cases where the driver cannot make the payment online, the fee can be paid at an office of the relevant authorities.
How to photograph the car and how to control the road?
Control for the presence of a vignette on roads is carried out in various ways, including using cameras and automated traffic monitoring systems.Cameras located on main roads and highways are capable of recognizing the license plate numbers of cars and automatically checking whether they have a valid vignette.If the camera detects the absence of a vignette, the information is sent to the relevant authorities, who can impose a fine on the owner of the vehicle.