Updated April 22, 2026
Driving License in Austria for Expats
Yes, for 6 months from residency registration. After that, you must convert to a Austria license. Good news: the official test is available in English.
Key Facts: Austria Driving License for Expats
- Test Authority
- BMIMI — Bundesministerium für Innovation, Mobilität und Infrastruktur
- Official Test Language
- German, English (limited), Turkish, Bosnian/Croatian/Serbian
- Grace Period
- 6 months from residency registration
- Processing Time
- 2-6 weeks
- Theory Test Required
- Yes (if no exchange agreement)
- Practical Test Required
- Yes (if no exchange agreement)
- Medical Exam
- Required
- Total Cost
- €150-200 (exchange) or €1,500-2,500 (full test)
Eligibility by Nationality
EU/EEA Citizens
EU licenses valid indefinitely. No exchange required.
US/UK Citizens
USA: No agreement, full test required. UK: Exchange possible.
Other Non-EU Citizens
Must exchange within 6 months of establishing residency. Exchange agreements with EU/EEA, Switzerland.
Students
Can use foreign license during studies with valid IDP. Must convert if staying permanently.
Required Documents
- ✓Meldezettel (registration certificate)
- ✓Valid passport
- ✓Original foreign license
- ✓Medical certificate
- ✓Eye test certificate
- ✓First aid course certificate (Erste-Hilfe-Kurs, 16 hours)
- ✓Passport photos
Costs Breakdown
- Conversion/Exam Fee
- €60-70
- Medical Exam
- €40-60
- Translation
- €50-100 (if needed)
- Total Estimated
- €150-200 (exchange) or €1,500-2,500 (full test)
License Exchange Agreements
Direct Exchange (No Test Required) · 11
License Exchange Agreements
Direct Exchange (No Test Required) · 11
EU/EEA countriesSwitzerlandUKJapanSouth KoreaTaiwanSingaporeBosnia and HerzegovinaSerbiaMontenegroNorth Macedonia
No Agreement (Full Test Required): USA, Canada, Australia - must take full tests
Tips for Expats in Austria
- Erste-Hilfe-Kurs (16-hour first aid course) is MANDATORY for full license
- L17 accompanied driving program available from age 17
- Test available in some languages besides German including English (limited)
- Vignette (motorway sticker) required for highway driving
- Winter tire requirement from Nov 1 to Apr 15
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Austrian driving test in English?
English is available in limited cases. The test is primarily in German, but some test centers offer it in Turkish and Bosnian/Croatian/Serbian as well. Check with your local authority.
What is the Erste-Hilfe-Kurs?
The Erste-Hilfe-Kurs is a mandatory 16-hour first aid course required for all new license applicants in Austria. You must complete it before taking the driving test.
Can I exchange my US license for an Austrian one?
No, there is no bilateral agreement between the USA and Austria. Americans must take both the theory and practical tests to obtain an Austrian driving license.
What is the L17 program?
L17 is Austria's accompanied driving program that allows 17-year-olds to start driving with a supervising adult after completing driving school. It's a popular option for young residents.