Complete guide 2026Updated April 2026Austrian Driving Licence 2026 The Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about getting your driving licence in Austria — FSG/BMK computerised theory test (1,497-question bank, ~80% pass rate), training costs of €1,500–2,500, Vormerksystem demerit system, BAC 0.5‰ (0.1‰ novice), Vignette motorway tolls, and Austria’s 9 Bundesländer.
Table of Contents
Theory Test
Computer-based multiple-choice test administered by the FSG-authorised Fahrprüfung centres.
Questions drawn from a 1,497-question bank, covering traffic signs, right-of-way, first aid, and vehicle technology. Approximately 80% of candidates pass on the first attempt.
Total Cost
Driving school (Fahrschule) fees €1,200–2,000 (theory + practical lessons), theory exam ~€35, practical exam ~€100, first-aid course ~€60, eyesight test ~€10–20, licence issuance ~€60.
Total €1,500–2,500 depending on the Bundesland and number of lessons needed.
Road Deaths
Approximately 351 fatalities in 2024 (down from 475 in 2019).
Austria’s road death rate is approximately 4.1 per 100,000 inhabitants, below the EU average of ~4.5. The government targets Vision Zero with ongoing infrastructure and enforcement measures.
BAC Limit
General limit 0.5‰ (0.05% BAC).
Novice drivers during 2-year Probezeit: 0.1‰ (effectively zero). Professional and bus/truck drivers: also 0.1‰. BAC 0.8‰ or above triggers licence revocation and mandatory traffic psychology assessment (Nachschulung).
Vormerksystem
Austria’s administrative demerit system records serious traffic offences (Vormerkdelikte).
A 2nd registered offence within 2 years triggers a mandatory remedial driving course (Nachschulung). A 3rd offence leads to licence revocation for a minimum of 3 months.
Global Context
Austria’s road death rate (~4.1/100K) is comparable to Germany (~3.5) and slightly higher than Switzerland (~2.2).
Licence costs (€1,500–2,500) are similar to Germany (€2,000–3,500). BAC limit 0.5‰ matches Germany. Mandatory Vignette for motorways is unique in the Alpine region.
Austria Road Safety: 3-Year Trend (2022–2024)
Austria has seen a steady decline in road fatalities over the past decade, from 475 in 2019 to approximately 351 in 2024. The BMI and ASFINAG continue to invest in speed cameras, infrastructure upgrades, and awareness campaigns.
Road deaths by year
Deaths per 100,000 Population
Italy5
France4.7- Austria4.1
Germany3.5
Switzerland2.2
Source: Statistik Austria, ETSC, WHO Global Status Report on Road Safety. Per-capita rates are estimates and may vary by methodology.
Austrian Theory Test Format
Computer-based multiple-choice exam administered at FSG-authorised testing centres across all 9 Bundesländer
The Austrian driving theory test (Theorieprüfung) for Class B is a computer-based multiple-choice exam. Questions are drawn from an official bank of 1,497 questions maintained by the BMK. The test covers traffic rules (StVO), traffic signs, right-of-way, first aid, vehicle technology, and environmental driving. Each module has a specific number of questions and pass threshold. Approximately 80% of candidates pass on the first attempt. The test is available in German and, at some centres, in English or other languages with prior arrangement. You must complete a mandatory theory course at a licensed Fahrschule before sitting the exam.
Question Bank
Duration
Pass Rate
Test Fee
What the Theory Test Covers
- Traffic signs, signals & road markings (StVO)
- Right-of-way rules (Rechtsregel, Vorrangstraßen)
- Speed limits by road type and zone
- Overtaking, lane discipline & roundabouts
- Pedestrian crossings (Schutzweg) & tram rules
- Vehicle technology & dashboard indicators
- Tyre requirements (winter tyres mandatory Nov–Apr)
- First aid basics (mandatory Erste-Hilfe-Kurs)
- Environmental driving (Eco-driving principles)
- Seatbelt, child restraint & headlight rules
- Hazard perception & reaction distances
- Alcohol, drugs & medication effects
- Motorway (Autobahn) & tunnel rules
- Probezeit (probationary period) rules
- Vormerksystem demerit offences
How to Get Your Austrian Driving Licence
From Fahrschule enrolment to Scheckkartenführerschein — the complete process
- 1
Complete a First-Aid Course
Take the mandatory 6-hour Erste-Hilfe-Kurs (first-aid course)
Must be completed before sitting the theory exam. Valid for life once completed. Cost: approximately €50–70. Available through ÖRK (Red Cross), Samariterbund, or Johanniter.
- 2
Get an Eyesight Test
Visit an ophthalmologist or optician for a Sehtest
Must confirm adequate visual acuity. Cost: €10–20. Can be done at most opticians. Valid for 6 months.
- 3
Enrol at a Fahrschule
Register at a licensed driving school for mandatory theory and practical training
Minimum 32 theory lessons (50 min each) and 18 practical driving lessons for standard Class B. L17 (Vorgezogene Lenkerausbildung) allows starting at 15.5 years with a special curriculum.
- 4
Pass the Theory Exam
Take the computer-based theory test at an authorised testing centre
Questions from the 1,497-question bank. Covers traffic rules, signs, first aid, vehicle technology. Fee: ~€35. Results available immediately.
- 5
Pass the Practical Driving Test
Complete the on-road driving test with an examiner
Approximately 40–60 minutes. Covers urban, rural, and motorway driving. Must demonstrate vehicle control, hazard awareness, and eco-driving. Fee: ~€100.
- 6
Receive Your Scheckkartenführerschein
Collect your credit-card format driving licence from the Bezirkshauptmannschaft or Magistrat
Licence issuance fee: ~€60. Processing time: 1–2 weeks. Photo must meet ICAO standards. Probezeit (2-year probationary period) begins immediately.
Austrian Driving Licence Fees
Total cost €1,500–2,500 — varies significantly by Bundesland and Fahrschule
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fahrschule (theory + practical lessons) | €1,200–2,000 |
| Theory exam fee | ~€35 |
| Practical exam fee | ~€100 |
| First-aid course (Erste-Hilfe-Kurs) | €50–70 |
| Eyesight test (Sehtest) | €10–20 |
| Licence issuance (Scheckkartenführerschein) | ~€60 |
| Passport photo | ~€10–15 |
| Total Typical (Class B) | €1,500–2,500 |
Prices vary by Bundesland and Fahrschule. Vienna tends to be the most expensive. L17 (accompanied driving from 17) may cost slightly more due to additional training requirements. Additional driving lessons beyond the minimum add to the total. Retake fees apply for failed exams.
See how ready you are — practice with real exam questions
Try Free QuestionsMinimum age by licence category
- AM — Mopeds up to 50cc / 45 km/hFrom age 1515years
- A1 — Motorcycles up to 125cc / 11 kWFrom age 1616years
- A2 — Motorcycles up to 35 kW18years
- A — Motorcycles unlimitedDirect access from 24, or 20 with 2 years A224years
- B — Cars up to 3,500 kg, max 8+1 seatsL17 allows driving from 17 with accompaniment18years
- C — Trucks over 3,500 kgRequires B licence first21years
- D — Buses with more than 8 passenger seatsRequires B licence first24years
- BE / CE / DE — Respective category with trailerAdditional trailer exam required18years
Licence Validity Periods
| Licence / age | Validity |
|---|---|
| AM / A1 / A2 / A (Motorcycle)Renewable with medical check if applicable | 15 years |
| B (Car)EU standard — photo update required at renewal | 15 years |
| C / CE (Truck)Medical + eye test required for renewal | 5 years |
| D / DE (Bus)Medical + eye test required for renewal | 5 years |
Vormerksystem (Demerit Register)
- Serious traffic offences are recorded as Vormerkdelikte
- 2nd registered offence within 2 years triggers mandatory Nachschulung
- Nachschulung is a remedial driving course (typically €400–500)
- 3rd offence leads to licence revocation (minimum 3 months)
- Offences include: speeding >40 km/h over, BAC ≥0.8‰, reckless overtaking, mobile phone use
Probezeit (Probationary Period)
- 2-year probationary period for all new licence holders
- BAC limit reduced to 0.1‰ (effectively zero) during Probezeit
- Any alcohol or drug offence during Probezeit triggers mandatory Nachschulung
- Probezeit resets for 1 year after any offence requiring Nachschulung
- L17 drivers enter Probezeit at age 17, ending at age 21 (unless extended by an offence)
Speed Limits in Austria
As per StVO and IG-L — all speeds in km/h
Austria’s speed limits follow standard European patterns: 50 km/h in built-up areas (Ortsgebiet), 100 km/h on rural roads (Freilandstraßen), and 130 km/h on motorways (Autobahnen). On some motorway sections, IG-L environmental speed limits of 100 km/h apply to reduce emissions. The A1 near Salzburg and A12 Inntal motorway have permanent 100 km/h IG-L zones. Within residential zones (Wohnstraßen) the limit is walking pace. School zones and 30-km/h zones are widespread. Trucks over 3.5t are limited to 80 km/h on rural roads and 80 km/h on motorways. Speed cameras (Section Control and single radar) are widely deployed.
| Road Type | Cars / Light Vehicles | Motorcycles | Trucks >3.5t / Buses | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Built-up area (Ortsgebiet) | 50 | 50 | 50 | 30 km/h zones near schools common |
| Rural road (Freilandstraße) | 100 | 100 | 80 | Single carriageway outside town |
| Motorway (Autobahn) | 130 | 130 | 80 | 130 general, 100 IG-L sections |
| Expressway (Schnellstraße) | 130 | 130 | 80 | Same as Autobahn limits |
| IG-L Environmental Zone | 100 | 100 | 80 | Permanent on some motorway sections |
Built-up area (Ortsgebiet)
Cars / Light Vehicles: 50Motorcycles: 50Trucks >3.5t / Buses: 5030 km/h zones near schools common
Rural road (Freilandstraße)
Cars / Light Vehicles: 100Motorcycles: 100Trucks >3.5t / Buses: 80Single carriageway outside town
Motorway (Autobahn)
Cars / Light Vehicles: 130Motorcycles: 130Trucks >3.5t / Buses: 80130 general, 100 IG-L sections
Expressway (Schnellstraße)
Cars / Light Vehicles: 130Motorcycles: 130Trucks >3.5t / Buses: 80Same as Autobahn limits
IG-L Environmental Zone
Cars / Light Vehicles: 100Motorcycles: 100Trucks >3.5t / Buses: 80Permanent on some motorway sections
Wohnstraßen (residential streets) limit: walking pace (~5 km/h). IG-L zones reduce motorway limits to 100 km/h for air quality. Trucks over 7.5t are banned from roads between 22:00–05:00 on some routes. Posted signs always take precedence. Winter tyre mandate Nov 1 – Apr 15.
Traffic Fines & Penalties
As per StVO and FSG — fines enforced by Polizei and ASFINAG
Austrian traffic fines are set by the StVO and administered by district authorities. Speeding fines increase progressively: minor offences can be settled on-the-spot (Organstrafverfügung) up to €90, while severe speeding (>50 km/h over) can exceed €2,180 with licence revocation. Drink-driving at 0.8–1.2‰ costs €800–3,700 plus mandatory Nachschulung. Using a mobile phone while driving costs €50–100 (on-the-spot) or more via formal penalty. Austria uses Section Control (average speed cameras) on motorways, which are highly effective.
Up to €100€101–€500Over €500
| Violation | Fine (€) | Additional Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Speeding 20–30 km/h over limit | €30–100 | — |
| Speeding 30–40 km/h over limit | €150–300 | Vormerksystem entry possible |
| Speeding >50 km/h over limit | Up to €2,180 | Licence revocation 2+ weeks |
| DUI — BAC 0.5–0.8‰ | €300–500 | Vormerksystem entry |
| DUI — BAC 0.8–1.2‰ | €800–1,200 | Licence revocation + Nachschulung |
| DUI — BAC ≥1.2‰ | €1,200–3,700 | Licence revoked 4+ months + Nachschulung |
| Running a red light | €70–726 | Depends on severity |
| Mobile phone while driving | €50–100 | €200+ via formal penalty |
| No seatbelt (driver) | €35‐50 | — |
| No Vignette on motorway | €120 (Ersatzmaut) | Up to €3,000 via formal penalty |
| No winter tyres (Nov–Apr) | Up to €5,000 | Vehicle can be impounded |
| Tailgating (too close following) | Up to €2,180 | Licence revocation for severe cases |
- €30–100
Speeding 20–30 km/h over limit
- €150–300Vormerksystem entry possible
Speeding 30–40 km/h over limit
- Up to €2,180Licence revocation 2+ weeks
Speeding >50 km/h over limit
- €300–500Vormerksystem entry
DUI — BAC 0.5–0.8‰
- €800–1,200Licence revocation + Nachschulung
DUI — BAC 0.8–1.2‰
- €1,200–3,700Licence revoked 4+ months + Nachschulung
DUI — BAC ≥1.2‰
- €70–726Depends on severity
Running a red light
- €50–100€200+ via formal penalty
Mobile phone while driving
- €35‐50
No seatbelt (driver)
- €120 (Ersatzmaut)Up to €3,000 via formal penalty
No Vignette on motorway
- Up to €5,000Vehicle can be impounded
No winter tyres (Nov–Apr)
- Up to €2,180Licence revocation for severe cases
Tailgating (too close following)
On-the-spot fines (Organstrafverfügung) up to €90 for minor violations. Formal proceedings (Strafverfügung/Straferkenntnis) allow higher fines. Foreign drivers may be required to pay fines immediately. ASFINAG enforces Vignette and toll violations on motorways.
Know These Rules Before Your Theory Test
Traffic fines, speed limits, and the Vormerksystem are heavily tested in the Austrian theory exam. Practice with real exam-style questions.
How the road worksMandatory, with a penaltyMakes it easier
Drive on the Right
Austria uses right-hand traffic.
Overtake on the left only. On multi-lane roads, the right lane is for normal driving.
BAC Limit 0.5‰
General limit 0.5‰ for all drivers.
Novice drivers (Probezeit) and professional drivers limited to 0.1‰. BAC ≥0.8‰ triggers licence revocation and mandatory Nachschulung.
Motorway Vignette (Maut)
All vehicles under 3.5t must display a valid Vignette to use Austrian motorways (Autobahnen) and expressways (Schnellstraßen).
Available as digital Vignette or windscreen sticker. 10-day, 2-month, or annual options.
Winter Tyre Mandate
Winter tyres (or all-season M+S tyres) mandatory from November 1 to April 15 when road conditions require them (snow, ice, slush).
Fine: up to €5,000 for non-compliance.
Rettungsgasse (Emergency Corridor)
On multi-lane roads and motorways during traffic jams, drivers must form a Rettungsgasse (rescue lane) between the left lane and the adjacent lane.
Failure to form it: up to €2,180.
Pickerl (§57a Inspection)
All vehicles must pass the annual §57a technical inspection (Pickerl/Begutachtung).
New cars: first inspection after 3 years, then after 2 years, then annually. Driving without a valid Pickerl is illegal.
Phone Use Prohibited
Handheld mobile phone use prohibited while driving.
On-the-spot fine €50–100. Formal penalty can reach €200+. Hands-free Bluetooth devices permitted.
Child Restraints
Children under 14 years or shorter than 150 cm must use an appropriate child restraint system.
Failure to comply: fine up to €5,000 and Vormerksystem entry.
Tram Priority
Trams (Straßenbahnen) generally have priority at intersections and when entering/leaving stops.
Drivers must wait for passengers boarding or alighting at tram stops without safety islands.
Common Road Hazards in Austria
~351 road fatalities in 2024 — know these hazards to stay safe on Austrian roads
Alpine Mountain Roads
Steep gradients, hairpin bends, and narrow passes. Some Alpine roads require snow chains even with winter tyres. Downhill vehicles must yield to uphill vehicles on narrow mountain roads.
Winter Conditions
Heavy snowfall, black ice, and fog from November to April. Winter tyres mandatory. Chain obligation on certain Alpine passes. Reduced visibility in tunnels between snowy approaches.
Tunnel Driving
Austria has hundreds of road tunnels including the Arlbergtunnel (14 km). Strict tunnel rules: headlights on, no overtaking, maintain distance. Tunnel breakdowns require immediate hazard warning.
Wildlife Crossings
Deer, chamois, and wild boar frequently cross rural and mountain roads, especially at dawn/dusk. Warning signs (Wildwechsel) indicate high-risk zones.
Motorway Construction
Austria’s ageing Autobahn network undergoes frequent upgrades. Narrow lanes, reduced speed limits, and sudden lane shifts in construction zones.
Cycling Infrastructure
Cyclists share roads in urban areas and on rural routes. Vienna, Graz, and Salzburg have extensive bike lanes. Watch for cyclists when turning right or opening doors.
Austria’s 9 Bundesländer
Driving licence administration is handled by the Bezirkshauptmannschaft or Magistrat in each Bundesland
- 1WienWien2.0M
- 2NiederösterreichSt. Pölten1.7M
- 3OberösterreichLinz1.5M
- 4SteiermarkGraz1.3M
- 5TirolInnsbruck0.8M
- 6KärntenKlagenfurt0.6M
- 7SalzburgSalzburg0.6M
- 8VorarlbergBregenz0.4M
- 9BurgenlandEisenstadt0.3M
Austria has 9 Bundesländer. Driving licence issuance is administered by the Bezirkshauptmannschaft (district authority) or Magistrat (in statutory cities). Fahrschule availability and pricing vary by region.
Myth: Austrian motorways have no speed limit like Germany
Fact: Unlike Germany’s Autobahn, Austrian motorways have a strict 130 km/h general speed limit. Some sections are further reduced to 100 km/h under IG-L environmental regulations. Austria uses Section Control (average speed cameras) extensively.
Myth: You can drive on the motorway without a Vignette if you’re just passing through
Fact: ALL vehicles under 3.5t must have a valid Vignette to use any Austrian motorway or expressway, even for a single exit. The minimum is a 10-day digital Vignette (~€12.80). Without one, the Ersatzmaut (substitute toll) is €120 on the spot, up to €3,000 via formal penalty.
Myth: Winter tyres are only needed in the mountains
Fact: Winter tyres are mandatory nationwide from November 1 to April 15 when conditions demand them (snow, ice, slush). Even in Vienna’s flat terrain, you need them. Fine: up to €5,000 and your insurance may not cover you without them.
Myth: One or two beers are fine if you’re an experienced driver
Fact: While the general BAC limit is 0.5‰, two standard beers can easily put you at or above 0.5‰. Novice drivers (Probezeit) face an effective zero-tolerance of 0.1‰. At 0.8‰ or above, you face licence revocation, Nachschulung, and heavy fines (€800+).
Myth: The Rettungsgasse is only needed when you hear a siren
Fact: The Rettungsgasse must be formed immediately when traffic slows to a stop or crawl on multi-lane roads, BEFORE emergency vehicles arrive. Waiting until you hear a siren is too late. Failure to form it carries fines up to €2,180.
Myth: Foreign driving licences are always valid in Austria
Fact: EU/EEA licences are valid indefinitely. Non-EU licences (e.g., USA, Canada, India) are valid for 6 months from entry. After 6 months of Austrian residency, you must convert to an Austrian licence. Some countries require a full re-test.
Digital Vignette becomes standard
The digital Vignette (Digitale Vignette) is now the default option, purchased online via ASFINAG. The physical windscreen sticker remains available. Number plate recognition cameras enforce compliance.
Increased penalties for extreme speeding
Penalties for speeding more than 60 km/h over the limit in built-up areas or 70 km/h outside built-up areas increased significantly. Repeated extreme speeders risk vehicle confiscation under the new Raser-Paket provisions.
Expanded IG-L speed limit zones
Additional motorway sections placed under permanent IG-L 100 km/h speed limits for air quality improvement, including parts of the A1, A12, and A13.
EU driving licence renewal standardisation
All new EU driving licences issued with 15-year validity (administrative renewal). Older perpetual licences to be exchanged by 2033 deadline.
Motorway speed limit trial: 140 km/h
A trial section on the A1 between Haid and Sattledt tested a 140 km/h limit. The trial was discontinued in 2020 by the new government due to environmental concerns.
Rettungsgasse law enforcement strengthened
Penalties for failing to form the Rettungsgasse on multi-lane roads were significantly increased, with fines up to €2,180 and potential licence revocation.
How Austria Compares Globally
Austria’s driving regulations compared to neighbouring countries — data compiled from official government sources
StrictestIn betweenMost lenientBAC limit and minimum age
| Parameter | Austria | Germany | Switzerland | Italy | France |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAC Limit | 0.5‰ | 0.5‰ | 0.5‰ | 0.5‰ | 0.5‰ |
| Min. Age (Car) | 18 (17 L17) | 18 (17 BF17) | 18 | 18 | 18 (17 AAC) |
| Driving Side | Right | Right | Right | Right | Right |
| Motorway Speed | 130 | No limit* | 120 | 130 | 130 |
| Test Questions | 1,497 bank | ~1,100 | ~700 | ~7,000 | ~1,000 |
| Licence Cost | €1.5–2.5K | €2–3.5K | 3–4K CHF | €0.8–1.5K | €1.5–2K |
| Road Deaths/yr | ~351 | ~2,840 | ~236 | ~3,039 | ~3,170 |
| Deaths/100K | ~4.1 | ~3.5 | ~2.2 | ~5.0 | ~4.7 |
BAC Limit
Austria: 0.5‰Germany: 0.5‰Switzerland: 0.5‰Italy: 0.5‰France: 0.5‰Min. Age (Car)
Austria: 18 (17 L17)Germany: 18 (17 BF17)Switzerland: 18Italy: 18France: 18 (17 AAC)Driving Side
Austria: RightGermany: RightSwitzerland: RightItaly: RightFrance: RightMotorway Speed
Austria: 130Germany: No limit*Switzerland: 120Italy: 130France: 130Test Questions
Austria: 1,497 bankGermany: ~1,100Switzerland: ~700Italy: ~7,000France: ~1,000Licence Cost
Austria: €1.5–2.5KGermany: €2–3.5KSwitzerland: 3–4K CHFItaly: €0.8–1.5KFrance: €1.5–2KRoad Deaths/yr
Austria: ~351Germany: ~2,840Switzerland: ~236Italy: ~3,039France: ~3,170Deaths/100K
Austria: ~4.1Germany: ~3.5Switzerland: ~2.2Italy: ~5.0France: ~4.7
Austria
Same as Germany 0.5‰, France 0.5‰. Switzerland stricter at 0.5‰ (0.1‰ novice). Italy 0.5‰ (zero for novice).
L17 accompanied driving from 17. Germany also 17 (BF17). Switzerland 18, Italy 18, France 17 (conduite accompagnée).
Germany no general limit (130 advisory). Switzerland 120 km/h. Italy 130 km/h. France 130 km/h.
Germany €2,000–3,500. Switzerland CHF 3,000–4,000. Italy €800–1,500. France €1,500–2,000.
~4.1/100K. Germany ~3.5, Switzerland ~2.2, Italy ~5.0, France ~4.7 per 100K.
Road deaths: Austria ~351 (Statistik Austria 2024), Germany ~2,840 (Destatis 2023), Switzerland ~236 (BFS 2023), Italy ~3,039 (ISTAT 2023), France ~3,170 (ONISR 2023). Per-capita rates: Austria ~4.1, Germany ~3.5, Switzerland ~2.2, Italy ~5.0, France ~4.7 per 100K.
Primary Sources
Verification Methodology
Every fact on this page has been cross-referenced against at least two authoritative sources. Our process:
- 1Primary data collected from Austrian legislation (FSG, StVO) and government publications
- 2Cross-verified against BMK, Statistik Austria, ASFINAG, and WHO reports
- 3Regional variations noted where applicable (fees differ by Bundesland)
- 4Page reviewed and fact-checked on March 27, 2026
If you find an error, please contact us so we can correct it immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a driving licence cost in Austria?
The total cost for a Class B driving licence in Austria is approximately €1,500–2,500. This includes Fahrschule fees (€1,200–2,000 for theory and practical lessons), theory exam (~€35), practical exam (~€100), first-aid course (~€50–70), eyesight test (~€10–20), licence issuance (~€60), and passport photo (~€10–15). Prices vary by Bundesland — Vienna tends to be the most expensive.
What is the Austrian theory test format?
The Austrian theory test (Theorieprüfung) is a computer-based multiple-choice exam. Questions are drawn from an official bank of 1,497 questions maintained by the BMK. It covers traffic rules (StVO), signs, right-of-way, first aid, vehicle technology, and environmental driving. Approximately 80% of candidates pass on the first attempt. The test costs ~€35.
What is the blood alcohol limit in Austria?
The general BAC limit is 0.5‰ (0.05%). Novice drivers during their 2-year Probezeit and professional/commercial drivers face a limit of 0.1‰ (effectively zero). BAC 0.5–0.8‰: €300–500 fine + Vormerksystem entry. BAC 0.8–1.2‰: €800–1,200 + licence revocation + Nachschulung. BAC ≥1.2‰: €1,200–3,700 + licence revoked 4+ months.
What are the speed limits in Austria?
Built-up areas (Ortsgebiet): 50 km/h. Rural roads (Freilandstraßen): 100 km/h. Motorways (Autobahnen): 130 km/h (100 km/h in IG-L environmental zones). Expressways (Schnellstraßen): 130 km/h. Trucks over 3.5t: 80 km/h on rural roads, 80 km/h on motorways. Residential zones: walking pace (~5 km/h).
What are the emergency numbers in Austria?
112 — EU Emergency Number (works everywhere). 133 — Police (Polizei). 122 — Fire Brigade (Feuerwehr). 144 — Ambulance (Rettung). 120 — Roadside Assistance (ÖAMTC). All are toll-free and available 24/7.
What is the Vignette and do I need one?
The Vignette is a mandatory toll sticker (or digital equivalent) for all vehicles under 3.5t using Austrian motorways and expressways. Options: 10-day (~€12.80), 2-month (~€32), or annual (~€106.80). Available as a digital Vignette (linked to number plate) or physical windscreen sticker. Without one, the Ersatzmaut is €120 on the spot or up to €3,000 via formal penalty.
What is the Vormerksystem?
The Vormerksystem is Austria’s administrative demerit register. Serious traffic offences (Vormerkdelikte) are recorded, including speeding >40 km/h over, BAC ≥0.8‰, reckless overtaking, and mobile phone use. A 2nd offence within 2 years triggers a mandatory Nachschulung (remedial driving course). A 3rd offence leads to licence revocation for a minimum of 3 months.
What is the L17 (accompanied driving from 17)?
L17 (Vorgezogene Lenkerausbildung) allows young people to start driving training at 15.5 years and receive a Class B licence at 17. They can drive accompanied by a named mentor (Begleitperson) with at least 7 years of driving experience. L17 drivers enter the 2-year Probezeit immediately. At 18, they can drive independently.
Are winter tyres really mandatory in Austria?
Yes. From November 1 to April 15, winter tyres (or M+S all-season tyres with adequate tread) are mandatory when winter conditions are present (snow, ice, slush). This applies nationwide, not just in mountains. Fine: up to €5,000. Insurance may deny coverage without proper tyres. Snow chains are additionally required on some Alpine passes.
Can foreigners drive in Austria with their licence?
EU/EEA driving licences are valid without restriction. Non-EU licences (e.g., USA, Canada, India, China) are valid for 6 months from the date of establishing residency in Austria. After 6 months, you must convert to an Austrian licence. Some countries require a partial or full re-test. An International Driving Permit is recommended but not mandatory for short stays.
What is the Rettungsgasse?
The Rettungsgasse (emergency corridor) must be formed on multi-lane roads and motorways whenever traffic comes to a standstill or slow crawl. On two-lane roads, vehicles in the left lane move left and those in the right lane move right, creating a corridor in the middle. On three-lane roads, the corridor is between the left lane and the middle lane. Failure to comply: fines up to €2,180.
What is the Pickerl (§57a inspection)?
The Pickerl is Austria’s mandatory vehicle roadworthiness inspection (§57a Begutachtung). New cars: first inspection after 3 years, then after 2 years, then annually. Inspected by authorised garages (Prüfstellen). The inspection covers brakes, lights, tyres, emissions, chassis, and safety systems. Driving without a valid Pickerl is illegal.
How long is the Probezeit (probationary period)?
The Probezeit lasts 2 years for all new licence holders. During this period: BAC limit is 0.1‰ (effectively zero), any alcohol/drug offence triggers mandatory Nachschulung, and the Probezeit resets for 1 year after any offence requiring Nachschulung. L17 drivers enter Probezeit at 17. The Probezeit cannot be shortened.
What are the main traffic fines in Austria?
Key fines: Speeding 20–30 km/h over: €30–100. Speeding >50 km/h over: up to €2,180 + licence revocation. DUI 0.8–1.2‰: €800–1,200. DUI ≥1.2‰: €1,200–3,700. No Vignette: €120 (Ersatzmaut). No winter tyres: up to €5,000. Phone use: €50–100. No Rettungsgasse: up to €2,180.
What is the minimum driving age in Austria?
AM (mopeds): 15 years. A1 (light motorcycles): 16 years. A2 (medium motorcycles): 18 years. A (unrestricted motorcycles): 24 years (or 20 with 2 years A2). B (car): 18 years (or 17 with L17 accompanied driving). C (truck): 21 years (or 18 with special training). D (bus): 24 years (or 21 with special training).
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