Austria

Travelling to Austria by car: A thorough guide for motorists

Embarking on a road trip to Austria? Our extensive guide covers vital information for a smooth and enjoyable journey by car. From essential items to keep in your vehicle, understanding toll charges and vignette requirements, to navigating traffic laws and refueling strategies, we’ve got all the details for an enjoyable Austrian holiday experience.

Essential items for your car journey in Austria

Ensure a safe and compliant journey through Austria by equipping your vehicle with these essential items:

• First aid kit: A fully stocked first aid kit is mandatory for addressing any medical emergencies that may arise during your trip.
• Warning triangle: In case of vehicle breakdowns, a warning triangle is essential to alert other drivers and prevent accidents.
• Safety vests: Safety vests compliant with the EN471 standard are a must-have for each passenger to wear during emergencies or breakdowns.
• Toll vignette: A vignette is required for accessing Austria’s toll roads. You can purchase your vignette conveniently here.
• Snow chains: During winter, snow chains may be mandatory on certain roads, so it’s advisable to keep them in your car.
• Winter tires: From November 1 to April 15, your vehicle must be equipped with winter tires for safe driving in winter conditions.

Toll roads and vignettes in Austria

While traveling through Austria’s motorways, a vignette is necessary. Learn more about Austrian vignettes and special toll roads, especially tunnels, here. Some of the major toll roads include:

• A9 Pyhrn Motorway – Bosruck and Gleinalm Tunnels
• A10 Tauern Motorway – Tauern and Katschberg Tunnels
• A11 Karawanks Motorway – Karawanks Tunnel
• A13 Brenner Motorway – Brenner Pass
• S16 Arlberg Expressway – Arlberg Tunnel

Apply for Austrian Vignette ⟶

Traffic congestion points in Austria

During peak travel seasons, some areas in Austria experience significant traffic congestion. To plan your trip efficiently, be aware of these high-traffic areas:

• A10 Salzburg – Villach
• Fernpasstraße B179
• Germany border crossing (Kufstein A12)
• Expect heavy traffic near the Italian border (Brennerautobahn A13).

Anticipate increased traffic and potential delays, especially during the high season.

Refueling strategies in Austria

Refueling in Austria offers a variety of options with different fuel types available:

• E95, known as Super or Bleifrei.
• Superplus 98, also referred to as Super Plus.
• Diesel and LPG, retaining the same names as in most countries.

To save on fuel costs, consider these tips:

• Fuel prices are typically lower on Sundays and Mondays.
• Filling stations near motorways often offer fuel at lower prices than those on the motorways themselves.
• Refueling before noon can result in cost savings, as prices are often lower.

Austrian traffic rules and regulations

Familiarize yourself with Austrian traffic laws to ensure a safe and lawful journey:

• A valid toll vignette is required for Austria’s motorways. Secure yours in advance here.
• Using a mobile phone while driving is strictly prohibited, and this rule applies even when you’re stuck in traffic or cycling. Phone calls can only be made when the vehicle is moving using a hands-free kit.
• The speed limit on Austrian motorways is generally 130 km/h, unless otherwise indicated. Urban areas have a standard limit of 50 km/h.
• Emergency vehicles always have priority in traffic. It’s essential to maintain a clear central aisle to allow emergency responders to pass.

Fines for traffic violations in Austria

Be aware of the potential fines for various traffic violations in Austria:

• Speeding: Fines for speeding vary based on the severity of the offense, whether inside or outside built-up areas, or on motorways.
• Other Violations: Running red lights, parking violations, not wearing seat belts, using a phone while driving, driving without a vignette, and not using winter tires or snow chains when required can result in fines.

Optimal route from the United Kingdom to Austria

For a stress-free journey from the UK to Austria, consider these recommended routes:

• The route through Munich, Ulm-Bregenz, or Passau-Linz is often the most efficient.
• Departing early can help avoid major traffic jams, particularly near Munich. After Munich, the journey tends to be more relaxed and direct to your Austrian destination.

Plan your route carefully to ensure a pleasant and timely arrival in Austria.

Apply for Austrian Vignette ⟶

Additional tips for driving in Austria

Beyond the basics, here are some additional tips to enhance your driving experience in Austria:

• Stay informed about the current traffic situation through local radio stations or navigation apps to avoid unexpected delays.
• If you’re traveling with family, ensure that child seats are installed according to Austrian regulations, based on the child’s age and size.
• Rest stops and service areas along Austria’s motorways are well-equipped and offer good facilities for a comfortable journey.
• In case of any traffic violations or incidents, it’s advisable to keep a record of the situation, which could be helpful in any subsequent legal proceedings or insurance claims.

By following these guidelines and being prepared, your journey through Austria can be a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable experience.

Frequently asked questions about driving in Austria

Understanding local driving rules is essential for a stress-free journey. Here are some common questions and answers:

1. Speed limits: The general speed limits are 50 km/h within town limits, 100 km/h on open roads and expressways, and 130 km/h on motorways.
2. Driving licence validity: EU and EEA licences are generally valid indefinitely. Non-EU/EEA licences are valid for twelve months, and an international driving licence is recommended.
3. Headlight use: Using headlights is compulsory at night and optional during daylight hours.
4. Drinking & driving: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.5 milligrams per millilitre, stricter than in the UK and US. Penalties are severe.
5. Seatbelt usage: Wearing seatbelts is mandatory for all passengers, with drivers responsible for passengers under 14 years.
6. Motorbike regulations: Helmets are mandatory, and the dimmed headlight must be on during the day. Toll stickers are required.
7. Essential items to carry: High visibility warning vests, a first-aid kit, and a warning triangle are mandatory in every vehicle.
8. Fuel types: Unleaded 91 and 95-octane petrol are available. Leaded petrol is banned.
9. Mobile phone usage: Hands-free car kits are required for phone calls. Phones can be used as navigation systems if fastened in the car.
10. Winter driving: From November 1 to April 15, suitable winter equipment is mandatory for cars and goods vehicles up to 3.5t.
11. Breakdowns and accidents: Report accidents with injuries immediately to the police. Utilize services like ÖAMTC and ARBÖ for breakdown assistance.
12. Emergency corridor: The Rettungsgasse (emergency corridor) is a clear lane for emergency vehicles to be formed in traffic jams.

Emergency numbers and contacts

Keep these emergency numbers handy during your trip:

• Doctor-on-call: 141
• Mountain rescue: 140
• ÖAMTC emergency breakdown service: 120
• ARBÖ emergency breakdown service: 123
• European emergency number: 112
• Fire brigade: 122
• Police: 133
• Ambulance: 144