An Ultimate Guide to Driving in Austria

If you’re planning a road trip through Europe, driving in Austria should be high on your list. With its stunning alpine views, charming villages, and smooth highways, Austria offers some of the most scenic drives you'll ever experience.

However, before you hit the road, it's essential to understand the local rules, costs, and driving quirks of this beautiful country.

This ultimate guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from car rental essential tips to winter driving rules — clearly and practically.

Why Driving in Austria is Worth It?

Austria has over 125,000 kilometers of roads! That's a lot to explore! Imagine cruising through snow-capped mountains, passing medieval castles, and stopping at cozy cafes in tiny towns — all at your own pace. That's the magic of driving in Austria.

Public transportation in Austria is fantastic, but driving offers true freedom. You can explore hidden lakes, breathtaking valleys like the Wachau, or remote ski resorts that are not easily accessible by train or bus.

Plus, roads are in excellent condition. Austrian highways, known as Autobahns, are modern, well-marked, and maintained year-round.

Essential Rules for Driving in Austria

Driving on the Right

In Austria, you always drive on the right side of the road. This is similar to most of Europe, but differs from countries like the UK or Australia. Always remember, especially at roundabouts and junctions — stay to the right.

Speed Limits

Speeding is taken very seriously. Here are the fundamental limits:

• Urban areas: 50 km/h (about 31 mph)
• Non-urban roads: 100 km/h (about 62 mph)
• Motorways (Autobahn): 130 km/h (about 81 mph)

Always look out for road signs, as speed limits can change based on weather or construction conditions.

Compulsory Wearing of Seatbelts

Everyone in the car, including backseat passengers, must wear a seatbelt at all times. No exceptions. Fines can be hefty — around €35 or more if you're caught without a belt.

Safety Distance

Maintain a sufficient distance between your car and the one in front. A good rule: at least 2 seconds behind at normal speed, more if it’s raining or snowing. Tailgating (driving too closely) is dangerous and can result in a fine.

Emergency Lane

If there is heavy traffic on highways, Austrian law requires drivers to form an emergency lane. This means moving your car to the side (left lanes move left, right lanes move right) so that emergency vehicles can pass through the middle.

Using a Mobile Phone While Driving

It’s illegal to use your mobile phone while driving unless you have a hands-free device. Holding your phone can lead to fines of up to €50 or more. It’s safer to stop somewhere if you need to make a call.

Mobile Phone Ban

The law is very strict. Even just glancing at your phone without touching it can be considered a form of distracted driving. Always use Bluetooth or stop in a parking lot.

Child Restraints

Children under 14 years old and shorter than 135 cm (about 4'5") must use an appropriate child seat. Austria is very strict about child safety. Always check that rental cars provide child seats if you’re travelling with kids.

Smoking Ban in Private Vehicles

If you're driving with anyone under 18 years old, you’re not allowed to smoke inside the car. If you do, you could face a fine of up to €100.

Compulsory Wearing of Helmets

If you’re riding a motorcycle, moped, or scooter, helmets are compulsory for both driver and passenger. No helmet? No ride.

Lighting Requirements

In Austria, headlights must be used at night and during periods of poor visibility, such as fog, heavy rain, or snow. Some mountain tunnels also require headlights even during the day.

Obligatory Safety Equipment

When driving in Austria, your car must carry:

• A reflective vest
• A warning triangle
• A first aid kit

Police can check for these during stops.

Warning Equipment

If you are involved in an accident or your car breaks down, you must place a warning triangle behind your vehicle (at least 100 meters on motorways).

First Aid Kit

Every car must have a first aid kit that meets Austrian standards. You can buy one from gas stations or auto shops if your rental car doesn't have it.

Minimum Tyre Tread Depths

Tyres must have a minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm. In winter, it’s recommended to have more for a better grip.

Short-Term Car Parking Zones

In many cities, such as Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck, there are short-term parking zones called "Kurzparkzone". You need a parking ticket or a mobile parking app. Always check the signs for time limits and rules.

Encounter Zone

In some parts of cities, there are Encounter Zones (Begegnungszonen) where pedestrians and vehicles share the street. Max speed: 20 km/h (about 12 mph). Always give way to pedestrians.

Vignette and Toll

You must buy a vignette (toll sticker) to drive on motorways. It can be purchased at gas stations near the border or online. Options:

• 10-day vignette
• 2-month vignette
• 1-year vignette

Plus, some tunnels and alpine roads have extra tolls.

Driving with Foreign Number Plates

Cars with foreign plates are welcome, but you must comply with Austrian laws, including having a vignette, safety equipment, and proper insurance. If your car doesn’t meet the rules, police can fine you or even forbid you from driving.

Driver Identification

When driving, you must carry:

• Your driving license
• Car registration papers
• Proof of insurance
• ID or passport

Police can ask for these anytime.

Drinking and Driving

Austria has strict drink-driving laws:

• Legal blood alcohol limit: 0.5 g/l
• For new drivers (less than 2 years): 0.1 g/l

Fines start at €300 and can increase significantly, including the potential suspension of your license.

Drug-Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of drugs is strictly forbidden. If caught, you can lose your license immediately, face heavy fines, and even receive jail time.

Driving in Austria in Winter

Winter driving needs extra care. Roads can be snowy or icy, especially in the mountains.

Compulsory Use of Winter Tyres

From November 1st to April 15th, winter tyres are mandatory when conditions are icy or snowy. Rental cars should already be equipped, but always double-check.

Requirements to Carry Snow Chains

If you’re heading into mountainous areas, carrying snow chains is required. Look for signs that say "Schneeketten Pflicht" (snow chains mandatory).

Spike Tyres

Spike tyres are permitted between October 1st and May 31st, but only for vehicles weighing under 3.5 tons. They must be marked with a sticker showing that spikes are fitted.

Removal of Ice and Snow from Motor Vehicles

Before driving, ensure that you have cleared all snow and ice from your car, including the roof. Flying snow can cause accidents, and you could be fined.

Snowed-In Traffic Signs and Road Markings

In winter, be extra careful because snow can cover road signs or lane markings. Always drive cautiously and at slower speeds when unsure.

Snow Removal and Gritting

Austria does a great job of clearing roads quickly, especially highways and main city streets. However, small mountain roads can remain slippery for longer, so drive slowly and carefully.

Driving in Austria with a Foreign License

Visitors from the EU/EEA countries can drive with their home license. If you're from outside the EU (such as the US or Canada), you can use your home license for up to 6 months; however, having an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.

Driving in Austria: Tolls

Besides the vignette, some roads and tunnels, such as the Arlberg tunnel, have additional tolls. Always carry some cash or a card — the toll booths accept both.

Driving in Austria with a US License

You can drive in Austria with your US license for up to 6 months. However, an International Driving Permit is strongly recommended because it can be helpful in the event of a police stop or an accident.

Recovery of a Towed Vehicle

If your car is towed (due to improper parking or a breakdown), call the towing service listed on the nearby signs. You will have to pay towing and storage fees to retrieve your car.

EU Photocard Driving License

If you have the newer stle EU photocard driving license, it is entirely valid in Austria — no extra permits are needed.

Revocation of Driving Licence – Offences

Serious offences like drink-driving, heavy speeding, or dangerous behaviour can lead to your license being suspended or revoked immediately.

Demerit Point System

Austria uses a points system for traffic violations. If you collect too many points, your license could be suspended. Points stay on record for 2 years.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Driving in Austria

Even experienced travelers sometimes make minor errors when driving in Austria. Here are common mistakes you should definitely avoid to ensure a safe journey:

Forgetting to buy and display the vignette: Always check if your rental car has a motorway toll sticker (vignette) before entering highways. No vignette = big fine!

Underestimating speed limits in tunnels and villages: Tunnels, towns, and rural areas often have lower speed limits. Observe the signs because Austria uses many automatic speed cameras.

Failing to create an emergency corridor in traffic jams: On highways, you must form a Rettungsgasse (emergency lane) for rescue vehicles during slow or stopped traffic. It's the law.

Turning right at a red light without a green arrow: Austria doesn’t allow right turns on red unless there’s a green arrow signal. Always wait unless you're 100% sure.

Using a mobile phone without a hands-free device: Even at traffic lights, holding your phone is illegal. Set up your GPS or calls before you start driving.

Parking in restricted zones without a parking ticket: Many city areas have short-term parking zones (Kurzparkzone). Always buy a ticket from a machine or use a parking app.

Not preparing for winter conditions: In snowy months, you need winter tyres and sometimes snow chains. Don't assume the weather will stay mild in the mountains.

Not carrying mandatory safety equipment: Every car must have a reflective vest, a first aid kit, and a warning triangle. Check your rental car before leaving the lot.

Misjudging narrow village roads: Many historic villages have extremely narrow streets. Drive carefully and be prepared to reverse if necessary to avoid oncoming traffic.

Ignoring local eco-zones: Some cities restrict older or high-emission vehicles in downtown areas. Always look for "Umweltzone" (environmental zone) signs when approaching major cities.

Driving in Austria: Special Things to Know

The Famous Vignette (Toll Sticker)

If you plan on using Austrian highways (and you probably will!), you need a vignette — a road tax sticker.

You can buy a vignette at border crossings, gas stations, or even online. Options include:

• 10-day vignette (€9.90)
• 2-month vignette (€29.00)
• 1-year vignette (€96.40)

Make sure to stick it properly on your windshield! Police check regularly, and if you don’t have one, you’ll pay a fine of €120 on the spot.

Some mountain tunnels and alpine roads also have separate tolls. Keep some cash or a card handy.

Parking Rules

In cities like Vienna or Innsbruck, parking can be tricky:

• Blue zones mean short-term parking. You’ll need a ticket from a machine.
• White lines indicate free parking, but please check nearby signs for details.
• Yellow lines mean no parking allowed!

Parking in the wrong spot can get you fined or towed — not the memory you want from Austria!

Tip: Use parking apps like Parkopedia to find available parking spots easily.

Emergency Equipment

By law, your car must have:

• A reflective safety vest
• A warning triangle
• A first aid kit

Rental cars usually include these, but be sure to double-check when you pick up the vehicle.

FAQs About Driving in Austria

What documents must I keep in the car while driving in Austria?

While driving in Austria, you must keep your driver’s license, car registration papers, proof of insurance (green card for non-EU cars), and your passport or national ID readily available. Police officers can request these documents during random checks or after minor traffic incidents. If you’re renting, ensure you have a copy of your rental agreement as well. Missing any document can lead to immediate fines or even being prohibited from continuing to drive. Always double-check you have both originals and copies where possible.

Can I drive my rental car from Austria to neighboring countries, such as Germany or Switzerland?

Reliable car rentals in Austria allow you to drive into nearby countries, including Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic. However, you must inform the rental agency beforehand because some insurance policies require special cross-border approval. Border controls between Austria and its neighbors are minimal due to the Schengen Agreement; however, you must carry your passport and vehicle documents at all times. Please note that toll rules and vignette requirements may change once you cross borders.

What are the rules for using headlights during daytime driving in Austria?

In Austria, you must use headlights during poor visibility conditions, such as rain, snow, fog, or when entering tunnels — even during the daytime. However, it is not mandatory to use daytime running lights at all times (unlike in countries like Sweden). Many rental cars come equipped with Daytime Running Lights (DRL) as standard. Tunnels are especially strict: forgetting to turn on your headlights inside tunnels can lead to a spot fine. Always keep your lights in "Auto" mode if your car supports it.

How does Austria’s Emergency Corridor (Rettungsgasse) system work?

If you encounter a traffic jam on a highway (Autobahn), Austrian law requires drivers to create an emergency corridor (Rettungsgasse). Vehicles in the left lane must move to the far left, while cars in all other lanes move to the far right. This clears a path in the middle for ambulances, police, or fire services. Failing to establish an emergency corridor can result in heavy fines, starting at €220 or more. Always anticipate slowdowns early and prepare to adjust your lane position quickly.

Is it legal to turn right at a red light in Austria?

Unlike some countries (e.g., the USA), turning right at a red light is strictly forbidden in Austria, unless there is an additional green arrow signal next to the red light (called "Grüner Pfeil"). Even if there is no traffic, you must not turn right without the special signal. Violating this rule could result in an on-the-spot fine. Austria’s strict traffic light system prioritizes safety for both vehicles and pedestrians, particularly in urban areas with high pedestrian traffic.

How strict are speeding fines in Austria, and how are they calculated?

Speeding fines in Austria are strict and can vary depending on the extent to of the speed limit is exceeded. Minor offenses (up to 10 km/h over) might cost you around €30-€50, but driving 30 km/h over can lead to fines of €150-€500 or more. In extreme cases, your license can be confiscated. Austrian roads often feature automatic speed cameras, particularly in tunnels, near schools, and at highway exits. Speeding tickets can be mailed internationally if you drive a rental car.

Are there specific rules for driving through Austrian tunnels?

Austria is home to numerous long tunnels, particularly in the Alps. When driving through tunnels like the Arlberg Tunnel or Tauern Tunnel, drivers must:

• Turn on the headlights
• Maintain a minimum safety distance of 50 meters
• Follow the posted speed limit (typically 80-100 km/h)

Overtaking inside tunnels is strictly prohibited unless signs specifically allow it. Many tunnels are equipped with automatic detection systems that monitor speeding, tailgating, and lane deviations. Emergency exits are posted at intervals of every few hundred meters in case of accidents or fires.

How does Austria handle eco-driving zones and environmental regulations?

Some Austrian cities, including Vienna and Graz, enforce low-emission zones (Umweltzonen). While these standards are stricter for trucks and commercial vehicles, passenger cars must still meet specific environmental requirements. Rental cars are typically compliant; however, if you are driving a vehicle with a foreign plate, you may need to display an environmental sticker. Austria also promotes eco-driving by installing automatic engine stop/start systems in vehicles and encourages the avoidance of unnecessary idling. Pay attention to any eco-zone signs when entering city centers.

What happens if I am involved in a minor accident in Austria?

If you’re involved in a minor accident in Austria (with no injuries), you must:

• Stop immediately
• Set up your warning triangle at a safe distance
• Exchange personal information and insurance details
• Complete an Accident Report Form (often found in rental cars)

If the accident blocks traffic or there are injuries, you must call the emergency number 112 immediately. Austrian law requires the reporting of all accidents, regardless of their severity, if property damage is significant or if the other party demands it. Police reports are mandatory in these cases.

What are the penalties for not carrying the required safety equipment in the car?

If your car is missing any of the mandatory safety items — reflective vest, warning triangle, or first aid kit — you can be fined on the spot. Typical fines range from €20 to €70 per item that is missing. Rental cars in Austria are legally required to provide these, but it’s a good idea to double-check before driving off. If you’re using your vehicle (foreign or local), check Austrian automotive shops or petrol stations where these items are easily available.

Are there special road signs I should be aware of while driving in Austria?

Austria uses standard European-stle road signs, but there are a few unique ones:

• "Vorrang geben" (Yield) looks like an upside-down white triangle with a red border.
• "Schneekettenpflicht" indicates that snow chains are mandatory ahead.
• "Begegnungszone" refers to areas where pedestrians, bicycles, and cars share space.
• "Rettungsgasse bilden" reminds you to form an emergency corridor in traffic jams.

Road signs are mainly in German, but they also use internationally understood symbols. Always slow down when you see warning signs for wildlife crossing, especially in rural areas.

How is fuel purchased in Austria, and what types are available?

Fuel stations in Austria usually offer Diesel (Diesel), Super 95 (Unleaded 95), and sometimes Super Plus 98 (High Octane) petrol. Stations are mostly self-service, equipped with card machines, but many still have cashiers on site. Some rural gas stations may be automatic-only at night. Prices are posted in euros per liter, and payment is often before refueling at night. Fuel prices vary by region, with rural areas often slightly cheaper than urban areas. Always confirm the correct fuel type with your car rental agency.

Conclusion: Is Driving in Austria Worth It?

Absolutely, yes! Driving in Austria opens up a whole new world beyond the usual tourist routes. You'll experience the country’s beauty at your leisure. Just remember a few simple rules: drive on the right side of the road, respect speed limits, obtain your vignette, and prepare for winter if necessary.

With a bit of preparation, your Austrian road trip can be an unforgettable adventure full of stunning views, friendly people, and cozy roadside stops.

So grab your keys, start your engine, and get ready to discover the real heart of Austria — one beautiful mile at a time!