You may see beautiful places in movies and wonder when you will visit those fairy tale lands. One such place with idyllic views is Austria, where you can grasp pure nature all around you. Such breathtaking views of the natural landscapes will change your heart and soul for the better. There are a plethora of mountains, lakes, valleys, forests, and lush gardens in Austria that a summer vacation should be spent here for sure. And during the winter, you will find those huge mountains caped with snow and ready to be skied on. So get into gear for a trip to Austria and bask in the splendors of what this wonderful country has to offer its tourists.

driving in austria

While on a vacation in Austria, you may need to learn about its legalities when it comes to certain matters – such as driving on the roads. Driving in Austria is quite uncomplicated, and in fact, it will offer you great freedom as you can explore the beautiful country on your own pace. Therefore, you must not forgo the opportunity of roaming the country on a car in fear of its driving policies. The roads in Austria are extremely well-maintained and you will enjoy your trip more while driving around the lovely country. Their superhighways and meandering byways are exceptionally safe to drive on.

Driving a car is pretty much the same way in every country. However, there are certain rules to follow when on the road in the beautiful country of Austria.

Here are the most important tips you should know about the country’s laws to learn how to drive in Austria properly:

  • You should have a proof of insurance from the local auto club or by your credit card company while using a vehicle in Austria.
  • You must carry a vehicle registration document (V5) when driving.
  • If you do not own the car, you must carry a letter from the owner of the car giving you permission to drive their vehicle.
  • Carry your passport or ID when driving in Austria always.
  • You must be 18 years old or above to drive in Austria.
  • Drive on the right side of the road when you drive in Austria.
  • Seat belts are compulsory in the front and back seats for the car passengers for car occupants in Austria as per law. No child of ages under 12 must be seated in the front seat, unless they are in a child restraint seat.
  • The speed limits in Austria vary. For urban areas, it is 50 km/h; for open roads, it is 100 km/h; and for motorways it is 130 km/h.
  • The police in Austria have authorization to collect fines on spot. You must collect receipts from the official when issued with a fine. You have to give the money on spot, or make a security deposit within two weeks.
  • Drinking and driving is completely prohibited in Austria. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.5 mg/ml, and over 0.8 mg/ml can lead to suspicious driving.

  • Use the off street car parks to park the car when you park anywhere in Austria. Never park facing the oncoming traffic, and park on the right. You cannot park 10-feet from the fire hydrant, or on white lines near bus stops.
  • In traffic jams on highways, switch the hazard warning lights.
  • You are prohibited from staying overnight in public parking lots in Austria.
  • You cannot use the mobile while driving around in Austria.
  • Visibility vests are compulsory in Austria.

Following these rules in Austria while you tour the country or spend some time there business purposes is important so that you avoid breaking the laws of the country. This way, you will enjoy exploring the wonderful country without any legalities.

Has this article helped you? Leave your thoughts and comments below to tell us about it. If you want to Learn How To do anything specifically, let us know and we will write on the subject to guide you. Our website is designed to teach our readers about all the basics of life and answer the questions on solving problems we get tangled in at home. So get in touch with us and share your thoughts and ideas in the comment box below!