Where Can You Buy an ENC Unit in Croatia?

For those who frequently grace Croatia’s motorways, the ENC (Electronic Toll Collection) system might be your new best friend. But before diving in, let’s explore what ENCs are, the perks they offer, and how to snag one for yourself.

Understanding Croatia’s ENC System

Croatia’s motorways utilize toll gates, where you pay per traveled distance. While simple, this can be time-consuming and pricey, especially during peak summer traffic. Queues at toll booths can easily stretch for 15 minutes, putting a damper on your scenic journey.

Enter the ENC system, a handy device attached to your windshield. This gadget automates toll payments, allowing you to breeze through designated lanes without stopping. It deducts fees directly from your preloaded balance.

Why an ENC is Worth to Invest in

Aside from the sheer convenience of skipping toll booth lines, the ENC system sweetens the deal with a discount on Croatian motorway tolls. You’ll still pay for the mileage covered but at a reduced rate, saving at least 20% compared to traditional gate payments. This makes the ENC an economical choice even for those who visit Croatia only two to three times a year.

Where to Buy Your ENC Unit

As a foreigner, acquiring an ENC unit might seem like the trickiest part. Luckily, once you have it, everything can be managed online, including topping up your balance. However, purchasing the device itself requires some planning.

According to the Croatian motorway operator’s website, ENC units are only available at select locations with limited hours (weekdays and Saturday mornings). Finding these sales points at toll booths can be challenging, especially for visitors.

Here’s a Proven Method to Secure Your ENC Unit

• Visit the Croatian motorway operator’s central office in Zagreb (Širolina Street 4). It’s an office building with the ENC sales office on the ground floor, left-hand side corridor.
• The reception staff is friendly and speaks English. Be prepared to fill out a form and wait in line. Allocate at least 30 minutes for the purchase process (including paid street parking).
• Specify whether you’re buying the ENC as an individual or a company.

Other Points of Sale

According to the HAC website, you can buy an ENC unit at some Croatian highway toll gates. This, however, seems difficult or even sometimes impossible for foreigners.

How to Purchase an ENC Unit

When purchasing an ENC unit, you’ll need to provide some personal identification and vehicle registration details. Payment can be made using various methods, including credit/debit cards.

Upon purchase, you’ll receive a compact plastic box that comes pre-loaded with a certain balance. This box is to be affixed to your vehicle’s windshield using the supplied double-sided tape.

Tips for Using the ENC Unit

• Proper Placement: Affix the ENC unit to your vehicle’s windscreen as instructed to ensure it functions correctly.
• Monitoring Balance: Keep an eye on your balance and top up as needed to avoid any disruptions during your travels.
• Troubleshooting: If you encounter issues, consult the user manual or contact customer support for assistance.

Top up your balance using the online ENC app:

• Google App Store link
• Apple App Store link

What Exactly is ENC?

ENC stands for Elektronička naplata cestarine, translating to Electronic Toll Collection in English. It offers a smoother, simpler, and more cost-effective way to navigate Croatia’s motorways.