European tourist country loved by Brits to make major driving change

Brits have been urged to make sure they are up to date on all driving laws in Croatia as the country prepares to introduce a new system for entering and exiting its motorways. Under the new rules, the current model requiring drivers to stop at toll booths will be replaced by a new, fully electronic toll collection system.

According to Hrvatske autoceste (HAC), the Croatian state-owned motorway operator, the new system will be based on free-flow technology. This means vehicles will pass through motorway points without stopping, and tolls will be charged either via an ENC device installed in the vehicle or through automatic number plate recognition. As a result, Croatia is making a major move over its acceptance of cash payments.

With the new set-up, cash payments at motorway exits will be scrapped because toll booths will be removed. However, drivers will still be able to top up their chosen payment method with cash at HAC offices, concessionaire outlets, petrol stations and other designated sales points.

To use the motorways, drivers will first need to register in the system and choose their preferred method of payment - either ENC or number plate recognition. The new system will use microwave technology (5.8 GHz) and automatic number plate recognition, according to CroatiaWeek.

For the first time, Croatia will establish a unified electronic tolling system across the entire motorway network. Officials have said the change will deliver smoother traffic, shorter travel times and a modernised system in line with European practice. Public consultation on the draft law remains open until October 15.

Under the new law, ENC devices will be mandatory for heavy vehicles and motorcycles. This aligns Croatia with European Union requirements, which aim to allow trucks and buses to use a single device for motorway access across Europe.

This news comes as the Home Office issued a fresh travel update over a significant change passengers will face when travelling to the European Union from October. In a post on X, the government department announced: "New travel update. From October, you may need to register your fingerprints and have your photo taken when entering or leaving Europe as a British traveller."

This development follows the EU's introduction of enhanced border checks through its new Entry/Exit System (EES). The system will be implemented over the coming six months and will impact non-EU citizens entering the Schengen area for brief visits, including UK nationals. Current information can also be accessed via GOV.UK and FCDO's Travel Aware pages.