Toll Roads for Rental Cars in Rome & Italy – What Tourists Need to Know

🚘 Do Rental Cars in Rome Need to Pay Tolls?

Yes. If you plan to drive outside Rome on highways (“autostrade”), toll charges apply, just like for locals. Tolls are not included in your rental fee — you must pay separately.

Italy has one of the most extensive toll systems in Europe, especially on routes connecting Rome with Florence, Naples, Venice, and Milan.

🗺️ Which Roads Are Toll Roads in Italy?

Toll roads are labeled A1, A24, A90 and others, marked with green signs that say “Autostrada”. Key toll highways near Rome:

• A1 Autostrada del Sole – Rome to Florence/Milan
• A24 – Rome to L’Aquila/Pescara
• A90 (GRA) – Rome ring road (free but sometimes confusing)

🧭 Regional and local roads (“SS”, “SR”) are usually free but slower.

💰 How Much Do Tolls Cost in 2025?

Tolls are based on distance and vehicle type. A typical route:

Prices may increase yearly — check autostrade.it for live rates.

💳 How to Pay Tolls in a Rental Car

🅿️ Main Payment Methods:

1. Cash – Accepted at staffed booths
2. Credit/debit card – Visa/Mastercard at automatic toll gates
3. Telepass – Electronic device (not always included in rentals)

⚠️ Important:

• Most rental cars do NOT come with Telepass by default
• Always ask at pickup if a Telepass device is included
• If not, use cash/card lanes

💡 Tip:

Some agencies (Locauto, Europcar) offer Telepass-enabled cars for a daily surcharge (~€4–€6/day) – ideal for long-distance travel.

⛔ Toll Mistakes That Can Cost You

• ❌ Using Telepass lanes without the device – triggers fines
• ❌ Missing the ticket at entry gate – can result in max fee (€80+)
• ❌ Unpaid tolls – rental company will charge you + admin fee (€30–€50)

📸 Italian tolls use license plate cameras to detect unpaid tolls

🧾 Can I Get Reimbursed for Tolls?

No. Tolls are not covered by insurance or rental agreements. Keep receipts for personal records or travel expense claims, but don’t expect refunds.

📲 Apps & Tools to Help With Tolls

• Autostrade per l’Italia – Official toll calculator and traffic app
• ViaMichelin – Shows toll costs along routes
• Waze / Google Maps – Warn about toll sections, but don’t show prices
• Telepass Pay / MooneyGo – If using a Telepass-enabled vehicle

🕵️‍♂️ People Also Ask

• Do tourists have to pay tolls in Italy?
  Yes, tolls apply to all drivers regardless of citizenship.
• Can I use cash to pay tolls in Italy?
  Yes, but some booths are card-only or unmanned.
• Are tolls included in car rental in Rome?
  No, you must pay tolls separately.
• How do I know if a road has tolls?
  Green signs with “Autostrada” mean toll roads.

❓ FAQ

Q: Do all highways in Italy have tolls?
A: No. Many regional roads and some highways are toll-free, but major autostrade require payment.

Q: What happens if I enter a Telepass lane by accident?
A: A fine may be issued by mail via your rental agency. Use only cash/card lanes.

Q: Can I prepay tolls with my rental company?
A: Rarely. Some offer optional Telepass plans — ask before pickup.

Q: What if I lose my entry ticket?
A: You may be charged the full length fare for that highway — often €80+.

✅ Final Tips for Using Toll Roads With a Rental Car

1. 🚘 Ask if your rental includes Telepass (or add it)
2. 📸 Keep all toll receipts in case of dispute
3. 🧾 Use official apps to plan costs in advance
4. 💳 Have both cash and a card ready at booths
5. 🔄 Avoid entering wrong lane — watch for signs
6. 🛣️ Prefer toll roads for speed, but plan the cost

📋 Final Summary

Toll roads are a normal part of Italian driving — including for rental cars. While they add to your budget, they also save time. Avoid penalties by paying properly, skipping Telepass lanes unless authorized, and using toll apps. If you’re driving from Rome to any major city, expect tolls — and prepare wisely.

Plan ahead, pay correctly, and enjoy the road in Italy. 🇮🇹