Austria Driving Licence: Obtaining an Austrian driving licence allows you to legally operate motor vehicles on public roads. Here is an overview of driving licences in Austria:

Types of Licences
There are different classes of driving licences issued in Austria:
- Class A – Motorcycles
- Class B – Motor vehicles up to 3,500 kg
- Class C – Trucks over 3,500 kg
- Class D – Buses
- Class E – Trailer combinations
- Class F – Mopeds
Eligibility and Minimum Age
To qualify for an Austrian driving licence you must:
- Be at least 16 years old (Class F)
- Be at least 18 years old (Class A, B)
- Be at least 21 years old (Class C, D, E)
- Pass theory and practical driving tests
- Meet medical fitness requirements
Licence Validity
Licence validity periods in Austria:
- Class A, B – 15 years
- Class C, D – 5 years
- Class E – Until age 60
- Class F – Until age 18
Licences must be renewed before expiry.
New Residents and Tourists
New residents can drive on their foreign licences for 6 months. Tourists can drive using valid foreign licences for up to 1 year. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
Getting Your First Austria Driving Licence
Here is the process to obtain your initial Austrian driving licence:
1. Enroll in a Driving School
- Complete mandatory theory and practical driving lessons.
- Minimum 16 theory and 16 practical lessons.
- Obtain a learner’s permit after basic training.
2. Pass the Theory Exam
- Take theory test on traffic rules, signs, laws.
- Answer 35 out of 40 multiple choice questions correctly to pass.
3. Pass the Practical Driving Test
- Take practical test with vehicle in licence class.
- Demonstrate competent driving skills and safety awareness.
- Score at least 80 out of 100 points to pass.
4. Obtain Your Licence Card
- Visit licensing authority with exam certificates.
- Submit application, ID, photos, medical certificate.
- Pay issuance fee.
- Your plastic card licence will be issued.
Renewing an Austrian Driving Licence
To continue driving legally, renew your licence before it expires:
- Renewal can be done up to 18 months before expiry.
- Visit licensing authority with current licence.
- Undergo vision screening and get new photo.
- Pay renewal fees.
- Updated licence will be issued.
Replacing a Lost or Stolen Licence
If your Austrian driving licence is lost or stolen:
- Report loss/theft to police immediately.
- Apply for replacement licence within 2 weeks.
- Provide police report and old licence details.
- Pay replacement fee.
- You will be issued a duplicate licence.
Changing Your Address on Your Licence
When you change your official residence in Austria:
- Notify licensing authority within 4 weeks.
- Provide proof of your new address.
- Pay update fee.
- Your driving licence will be modified with new address.
Getting an International Driving Permit
To drive abroad, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP):
- Apply for IDP at Austrian automobile club OAMTC.
- Bring current licence, passport photos and photocopies.
- Submit completed application and pay fee.
- Carry both your licence and IDP when driving overseas.
Traffic Rules and Regulations in Austria
When driving in Austria, you must follow these main traffic laws:
General Driving
- Drive on the right side of the road
- Compulsory seat belt wearing
- Require proper child seats/restraints
- No handheld mobile phone use while driving
Speed Limits
- 50 km/h in urban areas
- 100 km/h on major highways
- 130 km/h on motorways
Alcohol Limit
- 0.05% maximum allowable blood alcohol content
- 0.01% limit for novice drivers
Documentation
- Driving licence must be carried at all times
Fines
- Speeding fines from €30 to €5,000
- Driving unlicensed – fines up to €10,000
Resolving Traffic Violations and Fines in Austria
If you commit a traffic offence, here is how to deal with resulting fines:
Pay the Fine
- Fines can be paid online, by bank transfer, or in-person.
- Pay within 4 weeks for discount.
- Keep receipt as proof of payment.
Dispute the Fine
- To contest, file written challenge within 4 weeks.
- Provide evidence supporting your dispute.
- Fine may be waived if dispute upheld.
Licence Suspension
- Licence suspended if you exceed set penalty points.
- Attend remedial driving course to reduce points.
- Regain licence by obeying suspension terms.
Failure to Pay
- Unpaid fines referred for administrative enforcement.
- Additional fees applied.
- Can lead to licence suspension.
FAQ on Austrian Driving Licences
1. How much does it cost to get an Austrian driving licence?
Getting a new Austrian driving licence costs €600-1000. This includes mandatory lessons, theory/practical tests, and licence fees. Renewal every 5-15 years is €60-150 depending on licence class.
2. What is the minimum driving age in Austria?
The minimum age to hold a driving licence is 16 years for mopeds (Class F), 18 years for cars/motorcycles (Class A/B), and 21 years for heavy vehicles (Class C/D/E).
3. Can I exchange my foreign licence for an Austrian licence?
Austria allows licence exchange for EU nationals who become residents. They may need to pass theory or practical tests. Non-EU licences must take all Austrian driving tests.
4. How long can I drive in Austria on my US licence?
U.S. license holders can legally drive using their home licence for up to 12 months as a tourist. Residency requires obtaining an Austrian licence within 6 months. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
5. Can I renew my Austrian licence from overseas?
Yes, you can renew your Austrian driving licence from overseas by authorizing someone to submit the renewal application on your behalf along with required documentation.