Our new Driving Tips series gives you the need-to-know advice for driving abroad!
If your holiday or business trip includes driving in Austria you may want to consider Sixt’s tips that will hopefully make your journey hassle free.
Click to jump to: Speed Limits Rules & Regulations What to Bring Along
Speed Limits in Austria
The standard legal limits, which may be varied by signs, for private vehicles without trailers are as follows:
| In built-up areas | 50 km/h |
|---|---|
| Outside Built-up Areas | 100 km/h |
| Motorways | 130 km/h |
Austrian Driving Rules and Regulations
Here are some rules and driving tips that you should make yourself aware of before you start your road trip in Austria:
- When driving in Austria remember that you have to drive on the right hand side of the road.
- Seatbelts must be worn at all times by front and rear seat passengers occupants when travelling in a car. Fines for not complying are €35.
- You must be aged 17 or older and hold a valid driving licence. Your UK licence will continue to be valid in Austria even after Brexit.
- If you are caught drink driving, the maximum permitted level of alcohol in the bloodstream is 0.049 per cent. If the level of alcohol in the bloodstream is between 0.05 per cent and 0.079 per cent a fine will be imposed, 0.08 per cent or more and a severe fine or driving ban for Austria will be imposed. A lower limit of 0.01 is applicable to new drivers who have held their licence under 2 years.
- Passing lights (dipped headlights) must be used when visibility is poor due to bad weather conditions.
- Third-party insurance is compulsory.
- Use of mobile phones is prohibited whilst driving in Austria.
What to Bring Along
It is compulsory to have the following equipment with you when driving in Austria. Please note, our rental vehicles in Austria will be supplied with these, but always make sure with your rental agent first.
- Warning triangle which must state that it conforms to EC regulation 27.
- First-aid kit
- Reflective Jacket – Every car driver has to carry a reflectorised jacket / waistcoat (compliant with European regulation EN471) which has to be used in the case of a breakdown or accident and even when setting up a warning triangle on the road.
Rely on Sixt for your car hire needs in Austria
Still unsure about safety when driving on Austrian roads? Don’t worry! Our branch staff will gladly answer any questions you might have when picking up your rental from the Sixt location. We have stations at all major travel hubs and airports, in cities such as Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck and many more. We have a large fleet of vehicle categories such as hatchbacks, 4x4s, people carriers and more; which can be fitted with snowy tyres during the winter months.
Browse all Sixt Stations in Austria
