Driving Tips in Austria

Car Hire Depot information in Austria

A car hire with DriveAway Holidays offers convenience and freedom on your holiday. Our reputable suppliers offer competitive rates amongst a wide range of vehicles and destinations.

Car Hire Driving Distances in Austria

• Graz to Innsbruck – 460 kms (4hrs / 30mins)
• Innsbruck to Salzburg – 185 kms (1 hr / 50 mins)
• Salzburg to Vienna – 300 kms (3hrs)
• Vienna to Graz – 200 kms (2hrs)

Driving Licence

A full valid driver’s licence is required for a minimum of 1 year. An international drivers licence is required.

Age Restrictions

Generally the minimum age is 21 years, but can vary between the car hire company and location. Maximum age limits apply in some locations, a young/senior driver surcharge may apply. Please check Terms and Conditions when making an enquiry or booking.

Road Rules, Laws and Driving Regulations

General road rules and regulations in Austria;

• Vehicles must drive on the right hand side of the road.
• Pass others on the left hand side.
• Giveway to Pedestrians, cyclists and public transport.
• Mobiles phones are prohibited while driving.
• Dipped head lights must be used at all times.
• Seatbelts must be worn by all occupants.
• Giveway to uphill traffic on mountain roads.

Equipment

The following equipment are mandatory while driving in Austria:

• First Aid Kit
• Warning Triangle; to be used at the event of an accident or breakdown to warn following traffic.
• Reflective Jacket; to be used when exiting the car at an event of an accident or breakdown on any road.
• Winter Tyres and Snow Chains in snow areas.

Winter Driving

All vehicles driving in snow-covered roads are required to be fitted with winter tyres. Snow chains are not required but are to be carried in certain areas.

Child Safety Seats

Children up to the age of 12 or 150cm tall must be seated in a suitable child restraint.

Speed Limits

Speeding in Austria is a serious offence, if found speeding you may find yourself with a fine and possible imprisonment. Speed camera's and mobile police radars are used to catch motorists speeding. It is recommended that you follow the guide below for speed limits. Unless signed otherwise

• Urban Areas (built up areas): 50km/h
• Rural Streets: 100km/h
• Highways (Autobahn): 130km/h

Drink Driving

The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit in Austria is 0.05 g/100ml. Fines apply and a driving ban may be imposed.

Tolls

Motorists Driving on Austria's motorway (Autobahn) are required to purchase a Vignette sticker. Stickers can be purchased at either fuel stations or at border crossing. If you have hired a car you can purchase it from the supplier. Vehicles not fitted with a sticker face hefty fines.

Road Signs

Road Signs in Austria are very similar to other European countries but with slight variance. Warning Signs are generally triangular in shape with a red border, white background and a symbol in the middle. Prohibitive Signs are signs where motorists must follow. These signs vary in shapes from a circle, octagon and a box. You will find these signs in either blue with a white symbol in the middle and white with a red border. Information Signs are indicated with a blue background and white text providing motorists with directions or information.

Parking

Parking in Austria is plentful, whether it be street or secured. During weekdays parking is generally charged and timed, but the price is inexpensive. During the weekdays look for parking lots around the city for extended parking over 2-3 hours. Weekends are usually free. Make sure that you check street signs and road markings prior to parking as city parking are heavily regulated.

Visa Information

Visa, Passport and entry requirements for New Zealanders visiting Austria;

• New Zealand passport holders do not require a visa for stays up to 3 months, either as a tourist or on a business trip. Stays longer than 3 months must apply for a visa at the Embassy of Austria.
• A passport is required to enter Austria with at least 6 months validity beyond the length of stay.
• Return/Onward travel ticket is required.

*Please note driving distances and time should only be used as a guide, and may vary according to the route taken.