The Road System in Slovakia (NEW)
Last updated: [ October 2025 ]
Most people know that each country has its own road system. Although Slovakia’s subdivisions are similar to those in many other countries, there are some important differences travellers should know. Because of Slovakia’s location, it is often a good idea for visitors from across Europe to travel by car and pass through several other countries (e.g., the Czech Republic, Poland, Austria, or Hungary). We have gathered all the essential information about Slovakia’s road system so drivers can be rrjust as safe on Slovakian motorways and expressways as they are at home.
The Road Network in Slovakia
Slovak roads are generally well maintained. If you stick toofficial roads on your journey to Bratislava or elsewhere, you needn’t worry much about their condition. According to departmental data, the country’stotal road network measures roughly 18,000 kilometres.
Mountain Passes in Slovakia
There are some routes in Slovakia that are particularly busy. Among the most well-known are the Donovaly Pass (to Banská Bystrica) and the Čertovica Pass (to Brezno). If your route includes these, allow extra travel time and drive carefully. Even on motorways, delays are not uncommon.
Subdivision of the Slovak Road Network
Before travelling, it helps to know how the Slovak road system is classified. In the sections below, we explain the different types of roads. Note also: drivers on motorways and expressways must pay for a toll vignette for Slovakia.
Motorways – Diaľnice
The motorways are the most important roads in Slovakia. They not only connect major cities but also link Slovakia with neighbouring countries. You’ll often encounter these when crossing the border from Poland, the Czech Republic, or elsewhere.
Motorways are marked by red signs with a white letter “D” (for Diaľnice). There are currently four motorways in Slovakia. If you are using one of them, you need a valid Slovak vignette.
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Major Motorways (D1 to D4)
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D1over 500 km, running from Bratislava in the west towards Záhorie in the east.
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D2from Brodské in the far west, through Bratislava, to Čunovo at the border triangle with Austria and Hungary. It forms part of the route from Prague to Budapest.
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D3branches off from the main north-western region and goes towards the Polish border.
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D4the Bratislava Ring Road — encircles the capital to the north, south, and east; begins and ends at border crossings.
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Expressways – Rýchlostné cesty
Most expressways are also subject to the vignette system. Eight expressways have been planned; six are currently in operation and two are under construction. They are designated with the letter “R” on red signage.
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R1about 270 km, from Trnava via Banská Bystrica to Ružomberok.
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R2approx. 337 km, from Trenčín across to Košice in the east, connecting with D1.
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R3R4R6R7partially in operation.
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R5R8still in the planning phase.
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First, Second, and Third-Class Roads
These include all roads other than motorways and expressways. Their numbering and classification are:
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First-class roads: comparable to federal highways in many European countries; link major areas or connect with the motorway network. Labeled with “I/XXX” (e.g., I/74 from Strážske to the Ukraine border).
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Second-class roads: similar to state or national roads; labeled “II/XXX”.
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Third-class roads: local roads, mainly connecting municipalities; labeled “III/XXXX”.
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Speed Limits
- Maximum speed on motorways: 130 km/h for cars.
- Buses: 100 km/h.
- Trucks: 90 km/h.
- Inside towns: typically 50 km/h unless signs say otherwise.
- Outside towns: generally 90 km/h.
- Heavy motorhomes: restricted to 80 km/h outside towns.
You don’t need a vignette for all roads — only for motorways and expressways. We strongly recommend purchasing your Slovak vignette online before your trip, using PayPal or another secure payment method.
Author
Written by Freek Jurg, a specialist in Slovakian tolling regulations since 2014. With a deep focus on motorway and expressway systems, he has guided thousands of drivers through the complexities of e-vignettes, enforcement rules, and toll compliance across Slovakia.