International Driving Permit for Austria
Austria drives on the right and is a paradise for scenic Alpine driving, from the hairpin bends of the Grossglockner High Alpine Road to the lakeside routes of the Salzkammergut. To use the motorway network you must display a vignette toll sticker, and certain mountain roads charge separate tolls, so plan tolls in advance. Winter driving here is taken seriously, with mandatory winter equipment during the cold months.
Do you need an IDP to drive in Austria?
EU and EEA licences need no IDP in Austria, while visitors from many other countries can drive on a valid foreign licence but find an International Driving Permit useful, especially if it is not in a Latin script.
Quick facts
- Driving side
- Right
- Minimum driving age
- 17 years
- Region
- Europe
- IDP
- Useful
Local languages: German
Driving in Austria: key facts
- A vignette toll sticker is required to drive on motorways and expressways, with separate tolls on some Alpine routes and tunnels.
- Winter tyres or snow chains are legally required in wintry conditions from roughly November to mid-April.
- Headlights are advisable in poor visibility, the blood alcohol limit is 0.05, and children must use appropriate child restraints.
How to get your IDP for Austria
Getting your International Driving Permit for Austria takes only a few minutes:
- 1Apply online
Complete a short application in about 2 minutes — no paperwork or appointments.
- 2Upload your documents
Add a photo of your national driving licence and a passport-style photo.
- 3Get your IDP instantly
Receive your digital International Driving Permit by email, ready to use in Austria.
Frequently asked questions about driving in Austria
Do I need an IDP to drive in Austria?
EU and EEA licence holders do not need an IDP, and many other visitors can drive on a valid foreign licence. An International Driving Permit is useful if your licence is not in a Latin alphabet or to ease police checks.
Can I rent a car in Austria with a foreign licence?
Yes, you can rent with a valid foreign licence, and an IDP may be requested if your licence is not in German or English. Remember that motorways require a vignette, which rental cars may already display.
What side of the road does Austria drive on?
Austria drives on the right, using left-hand-drive vehicles. Watch for cyclists, trams in cities, and narrow Alpine roads in the mountains.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in Austria?
The minimum driving age is 17, but rental companies usually require drivers to be at least 18 or 21, with young-driver surcharges common under 25. Confirm the age and deposit requirements with your rental provider.
Other countries in Europe
International Driving Permit for Austria
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