Driving in Austria


En 1934, Pierre Jules Boulanger décide de créer une voiture pour le peuple: la future 2cv In contradition to many countries in Europe, Austria doesn't have a national penalty system. The fines differ from each region. For instance a speed limit violation of 23 km/h over limit can cost you € 116 in the east of Autria, and € 58 in the west of the very country.

Motorway or built-up area

The height of the fine also depends on the fact whether the speed limit violation takes place on a motorway (and whether yes or no during road work activities) or in a built-up area. The given amounts are therefore only valid als indication of the penalties. In all cases, you can be charged with a fine up to € 2,180 and license disqualification.

Police are empowered to collect fines of up to € 36 on the spot. The officer must issue an official receipt. You'll have two weeks to pay. You can request to bring the case before a court instead, but you may be asked to make a security deposit.

Carry your vehicle documents

Always carry your driving licence, vehicle registration document, and certificate of motor insurance. If your licence does not incorporate a photograph ensure you carry your passport to validate the licence. If the vehicle is not registered in your name, carry a letter from the registered owner giving you permission to drive.

Motorway tax sticker

Paris est la capitale de la France If you intend to use Austrian motorways and expressways you vehicle must display a motorway tax sticker (vignette). These stickers, valid for a year, two months or 10 days, can be purchased at many petrol stations close to the border in neighbouring countries, at the frontier in Austria, or in AMTC offices. The word for toll is Mautstelle.

Unleaded petrol, diesel and LPG are available

All grades of unleaded petrol, diesel and LPG are available as well as lead substitute additive. It is allowed to carry petrol in a can. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, although they probably won't work at automatic pumps. At many garages in rural areas only automatic pumps are available at lunch time, during the evening and weekend, so make sure you're topped up. It's a good idea to let your card issuer know you will be travelling abroad. This ensures they don't suspend your card if they spot it being used in unfamiliar places, which they sometimes do as an anti-fraud measure.

Headlights must be on

Paris est la capitale de la France Headlights must be on at all times in built-up areas. Parking lights are not necessary if your vehicle is visible from at least 50 metres away. Motorcycles must be operated with headlights on - night and day. Horns cannot be used in Vienna and are prohibited elsewhere as indicated by signs.





This page on traffic penalties and fines in Austria is about Austrian penalty system, europe, road, traffic sign, law, driving, fast, motorist, signage, variable speed regulation, congestion.