High Alpine Road on the Großglockner © Leo Baumgarnter
Traffic regulations
The legal driving age in Austria is 18 years. Foreign visitors require an international driver’s license. All vehicle owners have to carry liability car insurance. Border-crossing trips require additional insurance. It is required by law to wear seat belts and to carry an emergency triangle and a first aid kit in the vehicle.
Traffic regulations in Austria are similar to those in other European countries. Traffic travels on the right-hand side. The speed limit for cars is 100 km/h (60 mph) on cross-country highways, 130 km/h (80 mph) on freeways, 50 km/h (30 mph) in city zones and towns. Trucks are not permitted to travel during certain hours.
All Austrian freeways are toll roads and require a valid permit. A permit sticker (Vignette) can be purchased at gas stations, newspaper and cigarette shops (Tabak Trafik), post offices, etc. for different lengths of use.
The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.5‰. Fines are imposed for violations. Levels above 0.8‰, in case of an accident under the influence or a repeat offense, will result in the driver’s license being temporarily confiscated.
Gas stations sell lead-free gasoline, super lead-free and diesel. Most gas stations are self service and accept ATM cards and credit cards.
Winter tires (snow chains in higher altitudes) are necessary for driving in winter. Traffic information and road conditions are available in German by calling the Auto Club (OEAMTC) hotline daily from 6:00am to 8:00pm. T: (+43) (0) 1 711 997.
Time-restricted parking in city areas is often marked in blue curb paint and allows for parking up to two hours (exception: in Vienna, parking is restricted in the entire inner city area even in unmarked spots). City parking is generally paid parking only. Parking coupons can be purchased at newspaper and cigarette shops (Tabak Trafik), in banks and selected gas stations and have to be displayed in the car window.