European Telepass: Costs, Supported Countries, and Activation Process

European Telepass: A Complete Guide to Seamless Travel

The European Telepass is an innovative service designed for travelers to move freely on highways in the five participating countries, dramatically reducing waiting times at toll booths much like in Italy.
This article will explore the costs, application process, and essential details regarding the European Telepass.

Originally intended for trucks, the service was expanded to cars in 2018 following an agreement between Atlantia, the French group APRR/AREA, and the Spanish company Pagatelia.
It also allows payment for parking in around 400 cities, including major metropolises like Paris, Madrid, and Barcelona.

While the number of participating countries has grown, it’s crucial to note that Switzerland is not included due to its use of digital vignette systems.
Let’s delve deeper into the countries involved, activation steps, costs, and additional services offered.

Countries Participating in European Telepass

The European Telepass emerged from a collaboration between key transport companies, starting with Italy, France, Spain, and Portugal.
As of 2023, Croatia has joined this network, expanding the service’s reach.

Currently, the European Telepass is operational in:

• Italy
• France
• Spain
• Portugal
• Croatia

How Does the European Telepass Work?

Traveling with the European Telepass is straightforward and mirrors the experience in Italy.
Drivers need to present their device to the sensors at toll booths, signaling successful entry or exit, with payments linked to the vehicle’s registration.

However, it’s worth noting that the service is not available for trailers in Croatia, and rental cars are exempt in Portugal, requiring payment via traditional methods.
Recognizing special lanes for Telepass users is crucial: the letter “T” in France, Spain, and Italy, “V” in Portugal, and “ENC” in Croatia.

The service extends across all highways in France, Spain, and Portugal, while in Croatia, it is limited to specific routes.

How to Activate the European Telepass

Existing Telepass customers can activate the European service by requesting it through their Telepass Family contract and visiting a designated point for the new device.
New customers should sign a Telepass Family contract, requesting the international option as they do so.

It’s important to note that users can add a maximum of two vehicle registrations in France and Croatia, while only one can be associated in Portugal and Spain.

Costs of the European Telepass

Currently, an ongoing promotion provides free activation until September 30, 2024, saving the initial €10 activation fee.
Once activated, the monthly fee is €2.40, applicable only for months when a border crossing occurs, with toll charges automatically deducted from bank accounts.

Downloading the Electronic Vignette with European Telepass

The European Telepass also facilitates the purchase of electronic vignettes for countries like Switzerland, Slovenia, Austria, and the Czech Republic, conveniently stored in a digital format on the app, eliminating the need for physical stickers.

Participating Parking Facilities with European Telepass

With European Telepass, users can not only pay toll fees but also utilize parking services in about 400 cities, accessible via the Telepass app.
This feature enhances user experience, although currently, it is unavailable in Croatia.

For more information, check the official Telepass website at www.telepass.com.