Drivers in Alicante finally have the news they have been waiting for. The section of the AP-7 often called the Alicante ring road is now officially toll free for good.
The Council of Ministers has confirmed its permanent toll free status after reviewing the results of the trial period that began back in July 2024.
In simple terms, the Government has now decided that motorists can continue using this stretch of road without paying a cent, providing a much needed alternative to the increasingly crowded A-70.
Alicante’s AP-7 toll free trial
Since July 2024, drivers have enjoyed a 100% discount on tolls thanks to a pilot scheme designed to see whether making the AP-7 toll free would encourage motorists to switch away from the A-70, which was edging dangerously close to full capacity. The scheme was supposed to last four months, but it was extended twice, once in October 2024 and again in February 2025, eventually being scheduled to end on 15 February 2026.
The Ministry of Transport reports that the trial worked better than expected. Traffic data showed a clear improvement, with fewer vehicles clogging the A-70 and a noticeable drop in emissions. With that combination of safety, convenience and environmental benefits, the Government decided there was no reason to bring the toll back.
A permanent change
The trial was a success, and the Council of Ministers has approved the permanent removal of the tolls, meaning that the Alicante AP-7 is now officially toll free. The decision also updates the Agreement of 3 December 2024, which set SEITT’s toll structure for 2025 to 2032. The new arrangement lets the Ministry introduce temporary toll discounts on other motorways when needed. These discounts can be funded by the central Government, regional administrations or other organisations.
For motorists on the Costa Blanca, the important bit is simple. The AP-7 ring road around Alicante is now a permanent, free to use alternative to the A-70. Less traffic, fewer fumes and no charge at the barrier.
