Driving In Germany And Austria: Safe Or Not?

Germany and Austria are both popular destinations for road trips. Both countries have well-maintained roads and scenic routes. Germany's Autobahn is world-famous, and Austria's compact size makes it ideal for exploring by car. However, there are local laws and driving customs that visitors should be aware of to stay safe on the roads.

Austria's road rules and safety

Austria has a well-developed road network, but there are some local rules and idiosyncrasies to be aware of when driving in the country. Here are the key road rules and safety considerations for Austria:

General Road Rules

• Driving is on the right-hand side of the road.
• The use of seat belts is mandatory for all passengers in the front and back seats, where available. Exemptions include drivers while reversing or parking, people who cannot use seat belts due to their size or disabilities, drivers of emergency or official vehicles, and children under certain conditions.
• The blood alcohol limit is 0.5 milligrams of alcohol per millilitre of blood, and the limit is lower for provisional licence holders, lorry, and bus drivers (0.1 milligrams). Drink-driving is illegal and can result in heavy fines and the loss of your driver's license.
• It is forbidden to drive under the influence of any type of performance-impairing drug.
• Using a mobile phone while driving is only permitted with a hands-free device, which must be operable with one hand and must not interfere with driving.
• The use of dipped headlights is mandatory for motorcycles and mopeds during the day.
• All drivers must carry a first aid kit, a warning triangle, and a reflective safety vest, and be able to present them during a traffic check.
• On roads outside built-up areas, wearing a reflective safety vest is mandatory when exiting the vehicle in the event of a breakdown or accident.
• From November 1 to April 15, winter equipment is mandatory. Vehicles must be fitted with winter tyres on all four wheels or with snow chains on at least two drive wheels. Winter tyres must have the "M+S" marking and a tread depth of more than 4 mm.
• Snow chains are only permitted when the road is completely or almost completely covered with snow or ice. They are not mandatory to carry, but it is recommended for trips into high-alpine regions. If a "snow chains required" sign is displayed, all vehicles must use snow chains on the drive wheels.
• When passing or overtaking, you must use your turn signal to indicate your intention.
• On carriageways with two lanes, a lane for emergency vehicles must be cleared between the two existing lanes. On carriageways with more than two lanes, the lane for emergency vehicles must be cleared between the far-left lane and the lane next to it.

Speed Limits

• Within town limits: 50 km/h (approx. 31 mph)
• On the open road: 100 km/h (approx. 62 mph)
• On expressways: 100 km/h or 130 km/h (approx. 62 mph or 80 mph)
• On motorways: 130 km/h (approx. 80 mph)

Tolls and Vignettes

• All vehicles on motorways and expressways in Austria are subject to tolls.
• To use the motorways, you must display a vignette (sticker) inside your vehicle's windshield. Vignettes can be purchased physically or digitally and must be purchased in advance of using the motorways.
• If your vehicle is larger than 3.5 tonnes (such as an RV, motorhome, or caravan), you will need a different toll device called a GO-Box, which must also be attached to the windscreen.

Driving licences and permits

Germany

If you are a tourist in Germany (for less than 185 days), you can drive with a valid Australian driving licence, as long as you have an official German translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP). If you are from the US, you can drive for up to 364 days with a US driver's licence, but you must go to the local driver's registration office (Führerscheinstelle) before the six-month period after your arrival ends and notify them that you want to continue driving on your US licence.

If you are staying in Germany for more than six months, you will need to exchange your Australian or US licence for a German one. You will need to contact your local Führerscheinstelle (driver licensing agency) or Bürgeramt (register office). You will not need to take a practical or theory test, but you may need to provide a driving history report and/or an eye test certificate.

Austria

If you have a non-EU licence, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Austria. You can apply for an IDP online or by mail. If you are a US citizen, your US driver's licence must be accompanied by an IDP or an official German translation, which can be obtained at one of the Austrian automobile clubs, ÖAMTC or ARBÖ. If you are a resident of Austria, this arrangement is only valid for the first six months of your residence. After that, you will need to exchange your US or Australian licence for an Austrian one.

General Information

In both Germany and Austria, you must drive on the right-hand side of the road, and all passengers must wear seatbelts. The blood alcohol limit in both countries is 0.05, and drinking and driving is illegal and punished severely.

Driving conditions and local hazards

Driving in Austria and Germany is generally safe, but there are some local hazards and specific rules to be aware of. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Austria

• Road Conditions and Terrain: Austria's roads are well-maintained, but the terrain is mountainous, which can make driving challenging. The roads in alpine areas can become dangerous during winter due to snow, ice, and avalanches. Some mountain roads may be closed for extended periods.
• Speed Limits: The speed limits vary depending on the area. In residential and urban areas, the speed limit is typically 50 km/h unless posted otherwise. On freeways (Bundesstraße), the speed limit is 100 km/h, while on highways (Autobahn), it's 130 km/h.
• Toll System: Austria operates a toll system called "vignette". It is a prepaid sticker that needs to be displayed on your windshield when driving on highways and S roads. The vignette can be purchased physically or digitally, with prices ranging from €9.60 for 10 days to €93.80 for an annual pass.
• Road Rules: Driving is on the right side, and it is mandatory to overtake on the left with indicators. All drivers and passengers must wear seat belts, and it is illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The maximum permissible blood alcohol level for driving is 0.05%.
• Breakdowns and Emergencies: In case of vehicle breakdowns or emergencies, you can contact the ÖAMTC at 120. Alternatively, you can reach out to the ARBÖ, a membership service similar to AAA in the US.
• Signage: Road signs in Austria are only in German, which can be challenging for non-German speakers. Additionally, Austrian road signs may not be as clear and frequent as those in Germany.
• Parking: Parking regulations can be strict, especially in major cities like Vienna, Innsbruck, and Salzburg. Be sure to pay attention to signage and only park in designated areas to avoid fines and towing.

Germany

• Road Conditions: Germany generally has well-maintained roads, but there may be ongoing construction or roadworks, especially on highways.
• Speed Limits: Germany has a range of speed limits depending on the type of road and area. In built-up areas, the speed limit is typically between 30 and 50 km/h. Outside these areas, the limit is usually 100 km/h, and on motorways, it's 130 km/h.
• Toll Roads: There are toll roads in Germany, particularly for larger vehicles like motorhomes or caravans. Make sure to check the specific requirements and fees for the roads you plan to use.
• Road Rules: Similar to Austria, driving is on the right, and overtaking is done on the left. All passengers must wear seat belts, and drink-driving is illegal, with significant punishments for violations.
• Breakdowns and Emergencies: In case of emergencies or breakdowns, you can contact the ADAC, Germany's largest roadside assistance provider. They offer a variety of services, including towing, battery replacement, and fuel delivery.
• Signage: Road signs in Germany are usually clear and may sometimes include English translations. However, it's still helpful to familiarise yourself with common German road signs.
• Parking: Parking rules can vary by city and area. In general, look for designated parking spots and pay attention to signage to avoid fines.

Vehicle requirements and regulations

Driving in Germany and Austria comes with specific vehicle requirements and regulations that you must follow to avoid fines or other penalties. Here are the key points to know:

Germany

• You must carry specific documents with you at all times, including your V5C certificate to prove ownership of your vehicle.
• There are several safety items you must carry in your car, including a warning triangle, reflective safety jackets, and a safety helmet if you are riding a motorcycle.
• Germany has strict drink-driving restrictions, with a maximum blood alcohol volume of 0.05%. There is zero tolerance for drivers with less than two years of experience or who are under 21.
• All drivers and passengers must wear seat belts. Children under three must use a child seat, while children aged three or older must travel in the rear seats.
• When it comes to speed limits, motorways have a limit of 130 km/h, main roads are limited to 100 km/h, and urban areas have a limit of 50 km/h. However, many parts of the Autobahn have no speed limit.
• When towing a caravan or trailer, your car must be equipped with side rear-view mirrors, and the towed item cannot exceed specific dimensions.
• Germany has strict parking regulations. A vehicle is considered parked if it is stationary for more than three minutes, and there are several restrictions on where you can park.

Austria

• To drive in Austria, you must be 18 or older and hold a full, valid driving licence. For motorcycles up to 125cc, the minimum age is 16, while for mopeds (up to 50cc), it is 15.
• Driving licences from EU and EEA countries are accepted, and international driving permits are recognised but not required.
• When driving in Austria, you must carry specific documents, including a full, valid driving licence, proof of ID (passport), motor insurance certificate, and vehicle registration document.
• Since September 28, 2021, vehicles registered in the UK must display the letters 'UK' when driven in Austria, either on the number plate or as a separate sticker.
• You are required by law to carry certain items in your vehicle, including reflective jackets, a warning triangle, a first aid kit, headlamp beam deflectors or manual beam adjustment capability, and a crash helmet if riding a moped or motorcycle.
• Austria has strict seat belt laws. Both drivers and passengers in cars equipped with seat belts must wear them, with a fine of €35 for non-compliance. Children under 14 and below a certain height must use special seat belts or restraints.
• In Austria, motorists drive on the right and overtake on the left. They give priority to vehicles coming from the right, unless indicated otherwise, and emergency vehicles and vehicles on rails always have priority.
• The speed limits in Austria are typically 30-50 km/h in built-up areas, 100 km/h outside built-up areas (according to local signs), and 130 km/h on motorways.
• From November 1 to April 15, vehicles must be fitted with winter tyres or carry snow chains if weather conditions require them.
• Austria has a toll system called 'Maut Vignette', where motorists travelling on motorways and expressways must display a sticker in their windscreen to show they have paid the toll.
• When towing a trailer or caravan, ensure your vehicle and rig do not exceed specific dimensions in length, height, and width.
• Parking restrictions and fees apply in most major Austrian towns and cities, and enforcement can result in clamping or towing of illegally parked vehicles.

Breakdown and emergency procedures

Austria

If your vehicle breaks down on the motorway ('Autobahn') in Austria, you should call the Autobahn Administration first. You can do this using one of the emergency telephones at the roadside. These are positioned along the Autobahn – just follow the arrows on guideposts, which will direct you to the nearest one.

In the event of any emergency in Austria, you can call 112 from anywhere in Europe and an operator will connect you to an emergency service in the country you're visiting. Operators can answer your call in their native language, English, or French.

Germany

If your vehicle breaks down on the motorway ('Autobahn') in Germany, you should call the Autobahn Administration first. You can do this using one of the emergency telephones at the roadside. These are positioned along the Autobahn – just follow the arrows on guideposts, which will direct you to the nearest one. The phone number for emergency services in Germany is 110.

In the event of any emergency in Germany, you can call 112 from anywhere in Europe and an operator will connect you to an emergency service in the country you're visiting. Operators can answer your call in their native language, English, or French.

General Tips for Driving in Austria and Germany

• Ensure you have the right driving kit in your car. You could be fined for not carrying specific items.
• Check the condition of your tyres for any signs of wear and tear.
• Check the levels of coolant, oil, and screenwash in your car. Carry extra to top up during your journey, especially if you're driving long distances.
• Inspect your windscreen wipers for any damage and replace them if necessary.
• Fill your vehicle with fuel before leaving the UK.
• Book your vehicle in for a service before your trip.
• Check what the driving rules are in the country you're visiting. For example, in Germany, you should drive on the right side of the road and overtake other cars on the left.
• Make sure you are insured before travelling.

Frequently asked questions