AustriaAustria
Traffic rules
Austria
1. Austria
Austria is a landlocked country in Central Europe, with the Alps shaping much of its landscape and many of its roads. Traffic drives on the right, and drivers may encounter steep mountain roads, long tunnels and rapidly changing weather conditions. Winter driving is especially important, while vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes generally need a vignette to use Austria's motorways and expressways. Certain tunnels and Alpine crossings are covered by separate section tolls instead.
German is Austria's official language and is the main language used on road signs. Croatian, Slovenian and Hungarian also have official status in certain minority-language areas, where bilingual place-name signs may be encountered. Drivers should also watch carefully for local restrictions, including speed limits marked IG-L, which are imposed under Austria's air-pollution legislation.
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Which number can you call in an emergency in Austria?
Call 112 for urgent emergency assistance. Give the operator your location and explain what happened.
🔗 oesterreich.gv.at • Austrian Government, emergency numbers
What is the legal alcohol limit for drivers in Austria?
For most drivers, the blood-alcohol level must remain below 0.5‰ (0.5 g/l). A much lower limit of 0.1‰ applies to probationary drivers and certain other categories, including drivers of category C and D vehicles.
🔗 ris.bka.gv.at • Austria, Driving Licence Act, section 4(7), probationary alcohol restriction
What speed limits apply to passenger cars in Austria?
Built-up areas: For cars and motorcycles, the general maximum speed is 50 km/h, unless signs indicate another limit.
Outside built-up areas: For cars and motorcycles, the general maximum speed on ordinary roads outside built-up areas is 100 km/h, unless signs indicate another limit.
Expressways: For cars and motorcycles, the general maximum speed on an Autostraße is 100 km/h, unless signs indicate another limit.
Motorways: For cars and motorcycles, the general maximum speed on motorways is 130 km/h, unless a lower limit is indicated.
What are the seat-belt and child-restraint rules in Austria?
Seat belts are mandatory for occupants using seats equipped with them. Each person aged 14 or older is responsible for wearing their own seat belt.
Children under 14 years old and shorter than 135 cm must use a suitable child restraint. From 135 cm, the seat belt is sufficient under the main rule, although the Austrian Government recommends continuing with a child restraint below 150 cm.
A child seat may be used on the front passenger seat, but a rear-facing seat must never be placed in front of an active frontal airbag. The driver is responsible for correctly securing children under 14.
🔗 europa.eu • Your Europe / national authorities, Austria road rules, Seat belts and child restraints; 🔗 oesterreich.gv.at • Austrian Government, child restraints and front-seat airbags
Can you use a mobile phone while driving in Austria?
Drivers may not hold or otherwise use a mobile phone while driving, except for permitted hands-free calling or navigation when the phone is securely mounted. Texting, browsing and operating apps while driving are prohibited.
When are winter tyres mandatory in Austria?
Cars and light goods vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes must use winter tyres on all wheels between 1 November and 15 April when wintry road conditions are present, such as snow, slush or ice. Snow chains on at least two driven wheels may be used as an alternative when the road is continuously covered with snow or ice.
🔗 europa.eu • Your Europe / national authorities, Austria road rules, Other specific rules and winter equipment; 🔗 oesterreich.gv.at • Austrian Government, compulsory winter tyres, 1 November–15 April, wintry conditions
What safety equipment must you carry in a car in Austria?
Drivers of cars must carry a warning triangle, reflective high-visibility clothing and a suitable first-aid kit. The reflective clothing should be put on before leaving the vehicle after a breakdown or accident.
Can a visitor use a driving licence issued in another EU country in Austria?
Yes. A valid, full EU driving licence is recognised for the vehicle categories it covers. You must meet the applicable minimum age. A learner licence or a temporary replacement certificate does not have the same automatic recognition.
Are motorcycle helmets compulsory in Austria?
Yes. On an ordinary, open motorcycle, both the rider and passenger must wear a protective helmet. Use a helmet that meets the applicable approval requirements and fasten it correctly. Check the specific rules before relying on an exemption for an enclosed or specially equipped vehicle.
🔗 europa.eu • Your Europe / national authorities, Austria road rules
