Austria is one of the most popular travel destinations for drivers from Germany—whether for a short trip to the mountains, a summer holiday by a lake, or as a transit country on the way south. To keep your journey relaxed, it’s worth taking a quick look at the most important regulations: from choosing the right toll or vignette to speed limits and special rules such as IG-L environmental zones or winter equipment. In this overview you’ll find all the key traffic rules in Austria you should know in order to travel safely and avoid unnecessary fines.
First, it’s good to know that a German driving licence is sufficient. You must of course carry it with you, along with the vehicle registration certificate Part I (i.e., the registration document). The German test certificate (driving-licence substitute) for accompanied driving at age 17 is also recognized. Your German number plate serves as proof of valid third-party motor liability insurance, but we recommend carrying the International Motor Insurance Card (Green Card). This shows that your car is insured and you can request it free of charge from your insurer. In general, you should also check with your insurer before travelling to make sure you have adequate coverage.
The nationality identifier must either be included in the EU number plate or affixed to the vehicle.
You must carry a reflective vest (at least for the driver; recommended for all passengers), a warning triangle, and a first-aid kit (complete and not expired).
A fire extinguisher, on the other hand, is often recommended but is not generally mandatory for passenger cars.
On almost all highways and expressways in Austria, a vignette is required for motorcycles, cars, and motorhomes up to 3.5 t tzGm (technically permissible maximum mass including load). For all vehicles (including motorhomes) over 3.5 t tzGm, a distance-based toll applies, meaning the vignette requirement does not apply and the toll is collected electronically using the so-called GO-Box. The GO-Box is an electronic transmitter that records the number of kilometres driven and enables toll billing. On certain tunnels and mountain pass roads, an additional route toll (also called special toll or video toll) is charged due to high construction and maintenance costs. This must be paid on top of the regular toll. Our route planner helps you choose the right product. You can also read our guide on tolls.
The blood alcohol limit in Austria is 0.5‰. An exception applies to novice drivers with less than two years’ experience (probationary licence holders). For this group, the limit is 0.1‰.
In Austria there is a no-overtaking zone within 80 m before/after railway crossings.
Buses must not be overtaken when they have stopped to let passengers board or alight (hazard lights on and yellow-red warning lights activated). Not even at walking speed.
For motorcycles (motorbikes and mopeds), daytime running lights are mandatory on all roads. For cars, they are not required during the day in good visibility. However, lights must be switched on in darkness, fog, rain, or snow—as well as in tunnels and when towing.
If a 100 km/h speed-limit sign also shows the “IG-L” supplement, vehicles with an electric (E) number plate are allowed to drive 130 km/h instead of 100 km/h on certain sections. Hybrid vehicles are not included. Drivers of purely electric vehicles registered in Germany may also ignore IG-L limits and drive 130 km/h.
In snow or ice and winter road conditions between 1 November and 15 April, winter tyres (M+S marking) must be used. The minimum tread depth is 4 mm.
If you see a “No entry” sign with the additional note “Except vehicles with winter equipment”, you may only continue if you are using either snow chains or winter tyres.
Snow chains can be mandatory on certain roads when indicated by signs, and may also be used on compacted snow even without a mandatory sign.
Different winter tyre/chain rules may apply to heavy motorhomes depending on the vehicle class.
In general, you can expect the following fines. Depending on the offence, penalties may be significantly higher.
Good to know: Traffic offences in Austria do not result in points in Flensburg.
Austria has a very well-developed and well-maintained road network overall. Motorways and expressways in particular are modernised regularly and are mostly in good condition, although (as in any travel country) there may be construction sites and repairs.
Away from the main routes, rural roads are generally also easy to drive on and clearly signposted. In alpine regions, however, you should expect narrower lanes, steep climbs, hairpin bends and sometimes narrow mountain pass roads—especially if you are travelling with a trailer or motorhome. Some high alpine roads and passes may be temporarily closed in winter or during severe weather.
Weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains: fog, heavy rain or snowfall can reduce visibility and road grip, and higher routes often become icy in winter. Therefore, it makes sense to check current traffic conditions and any pass or road closures before longer stages.
If you want to explore the mountain surroundings in more detail, we recommend our guide to hiking areas for orientation.
Refuelling and charging electric cars: Austria is a popular travel destination that impresses not only with its breathtaking landscapes but also with a well-developed infrastructure. Some preparation is still valuable to ensure a smooth trip. That’s why in this article you’ll find everything you need to know about charging and refuelling in Austria.
Refuelling in Austria is very well organised: the country has a dense network of petrol stations, ensuring travellers can refuel easily at any time. Charging electric cars is also becoming increasingly simple: especially in urban areas and along main routes there is a wide range of charging stations. The infrastructure is continually being expanded and optimised.
The combination of traditional fuel stations and modern EV charging stations in Austria ensures that both combustion vehicles and electric cars are well supplied. With a bit of planning and overview, you can travel through Austria without worry and won’t have to fear running out of fuel or power. For more information, read our article on charging and refuelling.
If you want to use a rental car in Austria, all you need is your German driving licence and an ID. The rental company will usually also require a credit card for the deposit. When booking, pay special attention to insurance coverage—especially the deductible amount—and don’t let unnecessary add-on packages be sold to you on site. Also check whether a vignette is already included or whether you need to buy one yourself, as vignettes are mandatory on motorways and expressways. In winter, make sure winter tyres are fitted and that snow chains are available depending on your route. When picking up the car, a quick vehicle check is worth it: document any existing damage, clarify the fuel policy, and record everything in the handover report. This way you can travel stress-free and avoid later extra costs.
We wish you a pleasant journey to Austria. Don’t forget to inform yourself about the country’s toll regulations. You can find more information about tolls in our guide. If you would like to learn about vehicle classes in Austria, take a look at our guide as well. You’re also welcome to use our route planner to plan your trip better and see suitable toll products. If you have any questions, we are happy to help. Contact us via email.
