Else Beekman
The Spanish government has definitively ruled out introducing new tolls on state roads. Instead, it will maintain its current policy of toll discounts.
This decision, set to be confirmed by royal decree on 18 March, aligns with European Union guidelines on road user charges without imposing extra costs on motorists.
No changes for existing toll-free motorways
Since 2018, Spain has taken significant steps to eliminate tolls. Currently, 40% of state motorways are toll-free. In total, tolls have been scrapped on 1,029 km of the 2,530 km of motorways, saving Spanish drivers an estimated €1.4 billion annually. Furthermore, the government has ruled out reintroducing tolls on these roads in the future.
Current discounts to remain
Discounts for frequent users and freight transport will remain unchanged. On key motorways such as the AP-9 (Galicia), AP-66 (Asturias-León), and AP-68 (Basque Country-La Rioja-Aragón), drivers have already saved hundreds of millions of euros. The AP-9 alone has provided more than €330 million in savings since 2018. Plans are underway to extend discounts to other routes, such as the AP-53 (Galicia-Castile and León).
Adapting to EU regulations
While Spain will not introduce new tolls, it must comply with the latest EU rules on road pricing. This includes refining calculation methods to account for environmental impact and congestion. However, these regulations will only apply to new concessions and will not affect existing toll roads.
Spain will also comply with EU directives by gradually phasing out vignette systems for freight transport. The deadline for this is 2030, but since Spain does not currently use vignettes, the impact of this measure will be minimal.
What does this mean for drivers in Spain?
For now, drivers in Spain can breathe a sigh of relief. The government remains committed to keeping roads affordable and continues to support frequent users without imposing additional financial burdens. Spain is opting for a fair and balanced infrastructure funding model, prioritising accessibility and affordability.
Also read: Spain set to eliminate one of its oldest and most expensive toll roads