Driving in Austria
Before you pick up your car hire in Austria, it is worth noting some of the rules and regulations about driving in Austria.
Driving license requirements in Austria
Visitors may drive using their national license, provided it is in a language that uses the Roman alphabet. Holders of other licenses generally must also show an International Driving Permit in English (available through motoring organisations such as AA, AAA, RAC, etc.).
All other driving licenses are acceptable.
The authorities require that you carry your drivers license with you at all times.
Age requirements for driving in Austria
Car hire companies in Austria employ age restrictions, which can vary across companies. Please check your quotation for exact restrictions, as there may be an extra fee for drivers below the minimum age or over the maximum age.
Speed Limits on roads in Austria:
| Motorway | 130 km/h |
| Open road | 100 km/h |
| In town and villages | 50 km/h |
Tips for driving your car hire in Austria
- Drive on the right. Don't obstruct fast lanes.
- Be aware of what's happening around you. Adapt to local conditions.
- Austria requires that the driver and front seat passengers to wear seat belts
- Austria requires children to wear seat belts even in the back seats.
- All require special child seats for babies and young children under 1.5m or 12 years of age.
- Compulsory are the warning triangle and a first aid kit
- Visibility vest is not compulsory but is recommended
- Radar detectors are illegal.
- Do not argue with police. Be polite, be patient.
- Drinking and driving incurs heavy fines or prison sentences in Austria. The limit is 0.05%.
Fuel types available in Austria
- Unleaded Petroleum (gasoline)
- Diesel
- LPG
- Check carefully, before filling, whether your rental car uses petrol or diesel. If you make a mistake, do NOT start the vehicle, as severe damage may result and you will be liable for repair costs. Inform service station staff who will assist in arranging for the tank to be drained and refilled with the correct fuel
- Gas stations are generally open 24 hours a day and most are self-service. Times vary particularly in rural areas.
- Most credit cards are accepted for fuel payment.
Parking in Austria
- It is best to use designated ‘off street’ car parks as strict laws apply for street parking. If you do park on the street:
- Always park on the right, your car must not face the traffic
- Do not park in front of yellow or red road lines or within 10 feet/3 metres of a fire hydrant
- Do not park on a white line at a bus stop
- No parking signs should always be obeyed, as clamping and on-the-spot fines are common in major towns and cities
- Severe penalties may be incurred for dangerous parking
