We explain step by step how to optimally prepare your journey through Austria.
A well-planned journey through Austria begins with the right preparation. From choosing the right vignette to knowing the toll sections and having the right winter equipment – we guide you through all the important steps.
First determine how long you will be driving in Austria and what vehicle you are using. This determines which vignette is most economical for you. For stays up to 10 days, the 10-day vignette is recommended; for 2–8 weeks, the 2-month vignette; and for frequent trips, the annual vignette. Note that different tariffs apply for motorcycles than for cars.
Plan your route and check whether you will be using toll sections that require payment in addition to the vignette. Additional fees apply particularly on the Brenner Motorway (A13), the Arlberg Tunnel, the Karawanken Tunnel and the Tauern Motorway (A10). Keep sufficient cash or a credit card ready.
Buy your vignette before entering Austria or directly at entry at petrol stations, tobacconists or online at asfinag.at. The digital vignette is registered to your licence plate and is valid immediately after purchase. Keep the purchase receipt. Note: the vignette must be valid before entering the motorway.
Ensure your vehicle is roadworthy and carries all legally required equipment: warning triangle, first aid kit, high-visibility vest. In winter, winter tyres or snow chains are mandatory in wintry road conditions. Also check the validity of your vehicle insurance for Austria.
Observe Austrian speed limits (motorway 130 km/h, rural road 100 km/h, urban area 50 km/h) and the blood alcohol limit of 0.5 per mille. Keep emergency numbers ready: ÖAMTC 120, ARBÖ 123, Police 133, Ambulance 144, Emergency 112.
Buy the digital vignette online – conveniently from home. It is valid from the chosen date and active immediately after purchase.
For frequent trips, a toll box may be worthwhile (GO-Box for lorries or short-stay box for cars on certain sections).
Check current road conditions before mountain drives. Mountain passes may be closed in winter.
Different toll systems apply when crossing into neighbouring countries. Research requirements for Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Slovenia etc. in advance.
| Task | Done? | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Vignette purchased | ☐ | Valid before motorway entry |
| Toll sections checked | ☐ | Cash/card ready |
| Warning triangle present | ☐ | Mandatory in Austria |
| First aid kit present | ☐ | Mandatory in Austria |
| High-visibility vest present | ☐ | Mandatory in Austria |
| Winter tyres (winter) | ☐ | In wintry conditions |
| Insurance proof | ☐ | Green card recommended |
| Emergency numbers saved | ☐ | ÖAMTC 120, Emergency 112 |
| Route planned | ☐ | Know alternative routes |
| Vehicle checked | ☐ | Tyre pressure, oil, water |