Damon Mcknight
Austria is known for its breathtaking scenery, including winding mountain roads, picturesque villages, and incredible views of the Alps. Driving in Austria can be a pleasant experience, but it is important to be aware of the local traffic rules and speed limits. Here is an overview of what you need to know before planning your road trip in Austria, including information on speed limits, road rules, and some of the most scenic routes the country has to offer.
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What You'll Learn
Driving laws and rules in Austria
Driving in Austria comes with a unique set of rules and regulations that must be followed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the roads in Austria with ease.
Firstly, it is important to note that in Austria, you must drive on the right-hand side of the road. This is a fundamental rule that all drivers must adhere to. The national speed limit on motorways is 130 km/h (80 mph), while on main roads outside built-up areas, it's up to 100 km/h. In built-up areas, the speed limit ranges from 30 km/h to 50 km/h. It is crucial to follow these speed limits as they are strictly enforced, and speeding violations can result in hefty fines.
To legally drive in Austria, you must be aged 18 or older and hold a full, valid driving licence. A valid international driving permit (IDP) is also required. Driving licences issued in EU and EEA countries are accepted. If you are from the UK, your UK licence remains valid in Austria. Additionally, vehicles registered in the UK must now display the letters 'UK' when driven in Austria.
When it comes to insurance, it is recommended to contact your insurance company beforehand to confirm coverage. Most US insurance companies do not provide coverage in Europe, but your credit card may offer rental car insurance. It is also worth noting that since August 2021, a separate insurance green card is no longer required for driving in Austria.
There are specific equipment requirements that must be met when driving in Austria. All vehicles must be well-equipped with essential safety items, including a warning triangle, a reflective jacket or vest, and a first aid kit. These items may be needed in the event of a breakdown or accident and are subject to inspection during traffic checks. During winter, from November 1st to April 15th, winter equipment is mandatory. Vehicles must be fitted with winter tyres on all four wheels or snow chains on at least two drive wheels.
Austria has strict laws regarding alcohol consumption and driving. The blood alcohol content limit for drivers is 0.049%, which is lower than in many other countries. For provisional licence holders and commercial drivers, the limit is even lower at 0.1 milligrams. Violators face severe penalties, including heavy fines and the confiscation of their driving licence.
Lastly, when driving in Austria, it is important to be mindful of emergency vehicles. Keep an eye out for signs indicating the "Rettungsgasse" (emergency corridor), which must be formed immediately in case of traffic jams to allow emergency vehicles to pass.
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Speed limits and fines
Austria enforces speed limits on its highways, and although you may not see law enforcement monitoring speeds, there are cameras, and you will get a ticket in the mail. If you are stopped for speeding by the police, you will likely have to pay the fine on the spot. The police are allowed to estimate your speed and do not need further proof, such as electronic speed traps or lasers. The speed limit reduces to 50 km/hr if visibility is less than 150 feet.
Speeding fines in Austria range from €20 to €2,180, depending on the speed and the type of road. Minor speeding offences can be paid via wire transfer to a bank account provided by the authorities. Fines for higher speeding offences can be paid in two parts: an initial deposit paid to the police, followed by the remainder of the fine, paid within two weeks.
Radar detectors that interfere with police equipment are prohibited in Austria. However, sat nav systems that indicate where fixed-speed cameras are located are permitted.
If you are driving a foreign-registered car, police can impose on-the-spot fines of up to €90. Fines for driving under the influence of alcohol can be as high as €5,900.
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Driving in Austrian cities
There are a few key things to be aware of when driving in Austrian cities. Firstly, motorists drive on the right and overtake on the left. Overtaking is forbidden on or approaching pedestrian crossings and when it requires crossing a continuous white line. Trams can be overtaken if there is at least 1.5m of space, and walking speed must be maintained when doing so. As a general rule, priority must be given to vehicles coming from the right unless indicated otherwise. Emergency vehicles and vehicles on rails have priority over other road users.
The speed limit in Austrian cities is usually 50 km/h unless posted differently. The speed limit on highways is typically 130 km/h, and speeding fines range from €20 for a minor offence to €5,900 for driving under the influence of alcohol. It is important to follow speed limits as there are many speed cameras, and you may receive a ticket for going even 4km/h over the limit.
When driving in Austria, it is essential to have the correct documentation. If you have a non-EU license, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP), which serves as both a translation of your original license and a valid license. It is also important to ensure your vehicle is properly equipped, especially during the winter months. From November 1 to April 15, winter equipment, including winter tyres or snow chains, is mandatory.
Finally, when navigating Austrian cities, it is helpful to know some basic German. Knowing the word "Ausfart", which means "exit", can be particularly useful. Additionally, it is a good idea to be aware of a larger city in the direction you are heading, in case you need to reorient yourself.
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Driving on the Autobahn
It is important to be aware of the priority rules when driving in Austria. As a general rule, priority must be given to vehicles coming from the right unless indicated otherwise. Emergency vehicles and vehicles on rails always have priority and must be given way. When approaching a zebra crossing, drivers must stop if a pedestrian is on or intends to use the crossing. On mountain roads where two vehicles cannot pass each other, one driver should reverse to a passing place.
When driving on the Autobahn, it is advisable to stay in the flow of traffic. Noise-dampening walls are often present along the Autobahn, which can block the view. It is important to comply with the vignette requirements when driving on the Autobahn. A vignette, or toll sticker, is required when driving on Austria's autobahns or four-lane roads. This can be purchased before your trip or at drive-in markets and gas stations in Austria.
It is important to follow the alcohol limits when driving in Austria. The legal limit is less than 0.5 milligrams of alcohol per millilitre of blood, and for provisional licence holders, lorry, and bus drivers, the limit is stricter at 0.1 milligrams. Driving under the influence of alcohol can result in heavy fines and confiscation of your driving licence.
Finally, it is worth noting that winter equipment is mandatory in Austria from November 1st to April 15th. Vehicles must be fitted with winter tyres on all four wheels or snow chains on at least two drive wheels. When the "snow chains required" sign is displayed, all vehicles must comply.
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Scenic routes in Austria
Austria is a country of incredible natural beauty, with majestic mountains, lush pastures, and glistening lakes. Its roads offer fantastic scenic drives, with amazing views, hairpin turns, and steep inclines. Here are some of the best routes for a road trip through Austria's stunning landscapes:
Wachau Valley to the Loop of Schlögen
The Wachau Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a great starting point for a scenic drive from Vienna. This 36km-long valley between Emmersdorf and Melk (west) and Stein and Krems (east) is over 700m deep in some places. The breathtaking landscape is dotted with castles and monasteries, including Schallaburg Castle and the Benedictine monasteries of Melk and Göttweig. From there, you can head to the famous Loop of Schlögen (Schlögener Schlinge), a scenic road with a 360-degree view of a spectacular river turn. The route then takes you through Enns, Austria's oldest town, and onto the charming town of Steyr.
Salzkammergut Lakes
The Salzkammergut region, stretching from Salzburg eastwards, is home to the majestic Dachstein Mountains and numerous glacial lakes. The Romantic Road, a 380km route from Vienna to Salzburg, takes you through this region, offering a dreamlike landscape of glistening lakes and cows grazing on emerald pastures. The town of Hallstatt, a World Heritage site, is a must-see, as are the spa town of Bad Ischl and Lake Wolfgang (Wolfgangsee).
Zillertaler Höhenstraße
The Zillertaler Höhenstraße is a well-built alpine road offering breathtaking views of nature. It is a great choice for those seeking a less challenging alpine drive, although beginners may still find it a bit tricky. There are plenty of parking spaces, restaurants, and entertainment options along the way, as well as hiking routes of varying lengths and difficulty levels.
Salzburg to Carinthia
This route offers 48km of stunning Alpine scenery, with a highest elevation of 2,504m. It features 36 hairpin turns and a maximum gradient of 12%. It is open from May to October and has a toll.
Tauplitz
Tauplitz offers amazing views, but it is important to note that you will need to cross some red slopes to get there.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several scenic drives in Austria, including the Wachau Valley, Loop of Schlögen, and Salzkammergut Lakes. The Romantic Road (Romantikstraße) is another famous route that runs 380km from Salzburg to Vienna. The Salzkammergut region, stretching from Salzburg, is also a great option for a scenic drive.
In Austria, motorists drive on the right and overtake on the left. Overtaking is forbidden on or near pedestrian crossings and when it means crossing a continuous white line. As a general rule, priority must be given to vehicles coming from the right unless indicated. The speed limits are 30-50km/h in built-up areas, 100km/h outside built-up areas, and 130km/h on motorways.
It is compulsory to carry a warning triangle, a first aid kit, and a reflective safety vest when driving in Austria. A reflective jacket is also required in the event of a breakdown or accident. From November 1 to April 15, winter equipment, such as winter tyres or snow chains, is mandatory.
The legal blood alcohol limit in Austria is 0.5 milligrams of alcohol per millilitre of blood. For provisional licence holders, lorry, and bus drivers, the limit is stricter at 0.1 milligrams. Drink-driving is illegal and can result in heavy fines and the confiscation of your driving licence.
Road signs in Austria are often not in English, so it is recommended to get a map or follow a local. Police officers speak fluent English and can provide assistance if needed. When renting a car, be sure to read the contract carefully, as some companies prohibit taking rental cars into Eastern European countries.
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