Car Rental in Austria for Australian Travelers

Traveling from Australia to Austria opens doors to breathtaking landscapes and charming villages. Renting a car allows you to explore this European gem extensively.
As an Australian traveler, you may wonder:

Is my Australian driver’s license valid in Austria?
What are the average car rental costs?
Do I need additional insurance?
Are there differences in traffic rules between Australia and Austria?
Can I rent a car in Austria and return it in another country?

This guide comprehensively addresses the above queries and highlights indispensable tips to ensure an enjoyable and hassle-free driving experience in Austria. Dive in for an extensive summary at the end for quick insights!

Can Australian Citizens Drive in Austria?

Yes, Australian travelers can legally drive in Austria with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.

Form of ID:
A valid passport
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
• EU/EEA Driving License
Notes: Important Notice: Some non-EEA driving licences are not recognized in Austria and cannot be used for car rentals. Please check if your licence is valid by visiting https://www.oeamtc.at/thema/fuehrerschein/auslaendischer-eu-und-ewr-fuehrerschein-in-oester
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Supported cards include Visa and Master.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be between 18 and 95 years old. Young drivers aged 18-25 may incur a fee of US$ 14.15 per day.

Ready to Rent?

Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Choose from trusted global chains or innovative local alternatives. Each offers different advantages for Australian travelers visiting Austria.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

SIXT
global
8.5
Locations:
107
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Wide range of vehicles from economy to luxury
- 24/7 customer support
- Easy online booking
- Frequent promotions and discounts
Best for
Travelers seeking luxury or flexible rental solutions
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
66
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
79
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Strong presence in Europe
- Loyalty program benefits
- Online booking discounts
- 24/7 roadside assistance
Best for
Leisure travelers and corporate clients
Avis
global
8.5
Locations:
65
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Quick and easy booking process
- Loyalty rewards program
- Excellent customer service
- Variety of vehicle classes
Best for
Travelers seeking reliability and convenience
Alamo
global
8.5
Locations:
28
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- No hidden fees
- Flexible rental options
- Wide range of vehicles
- Excellent customer service
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families

Zippy7
local
8.5
Locations:
2
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized customer service
- Wide range of vehicles
- Easy booking process
- Competitive pricing
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals
U-SAVE
local
8.5
Locations:
21
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Cost-effective rental options
- Excellent customer service
- Flexible rental periods
- Easy online booking
Best for
Budget travelers and local rentals
Dryyve
local
8.5
Locations:
15
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized customer service
- Affordable pricing
- Local knowledge and support
- No hidden fees
Best for
Local travelers and short-term rentals
Autounion
local
8.5
Locations:
16
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized customer service
- Competitive pricing
- Diverse vehicle selection
- Local knowledge and expertise
Best for
Travelers seeking affordable local options and personalized service
Wheego
local
8.5
Locations:
21
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Focus on sustainability
- Competitive pricing compared to traditional rentals
- Flexible rental terms
- Personalized customer service
Best for
Eco-conscious travelers and budget-minded customers

Recommendations for Australian Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

First time renting in Austria
Need reliable nationwide coverage
Want 24/7 customer support
Business or important travel

Choose Local Brands If:

Want to save money
Staying in major cities only
Want unique vehicle experiences
Comfortable with app-based services

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.

Seating and Luggage
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
- Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
  Perfect for city driving and short trips
- Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
  Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
- Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
  Comfortable for longer distances
- Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
  Ideal for families and group travel
Transmission Type
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
- Automatic transmission
  Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in Austria
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Consider your comfort level with local driving conditions
Insurance Included
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
- Basic liability
  Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
  Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
- Theft protection
  Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
- Personal insurance
  Check if your Australian insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Cancellation Policy
Understand booking flexibility and fees
- Free cancellation
  Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
- Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
  Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
- Change fees
  Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
- Travel insurance
  Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Mileage Policy
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
- Unlimited mileage
  Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
- Limited mileage
  Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
- Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
- Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Fuel Policy
Understand fuel requirements and costs
- Full-to-Full
  Return with same fuel level, most economical option
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
- Same-to-Same
  Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
- Pre-purchase fuel options
  Compare costs with local gas station prices

Quick Decision Guide

City Travel
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Alpine routes, countryside exploration
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Lakeside destinations, resort areas

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Don't settle for the first option you find. QEEQ makes it easy to compare car types, policies, and total costs from multiple providers. See all fees upfront, read real customer reviews, and choose the perfect car for your adventure.

Compare all car rental deals
No hidden fees
Real customer reviews

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Popular Destinations in Austria

Austria boasts stunning landscapes and vibrant cities, making it a top destination for travelers from Australia. From exploring Vienna’s cultural heritage to skiing in the Alps, Austria provides a variety of experiences for visitors.

What Insurance Do I Need?

You'll need at least basic insurance to legally drive in Austria, but for peace of mind on your journey, extra coverage is strongly advised. Austrian laws mandate certain levels of coverage, but additional options can protect you from unexpected expenses.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental car caused by collision or theft.
AUD 24-40/day
Essential
Theft Protection (TP)
Protects against the theft of the rental vehicle and reduces your financial liability.
AUD 8-12/day
Essential
Third-Party Liability Insurance (TPL)
Covers injury or damage to third parties and their property.
Usually included
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers in the event of an accident.
AUD 6-10/day
Optional

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Austria. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

US$342.99 - US$3,539.40

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

US$342.99 - US$3,539.40

Personal Accident Insurance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Tire, Window, Mirror Damage

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Roadside Assistance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Know more About QEEQ Full Coverage

Money-Saving Tips for Car Rentals in Austria

Plan ahead and make informed choices to save when renting a car in Austria. These tips are tailored for travelers from Australia to maximize value and avoid unnecessary expenses.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book in Advance
Secure your car rental well before your travel date—ideally 4-6 weeks ahead. This ensures better availability and often lower prices, especially during peak seasons.
Save up to 35% compared to last-minute bookings
Use Comparison Platforms
Leverage online price comparison tools like Rentalcars or QEEQ to identify the best rates across multiple providers. These platforms often feature promotional discounts.
Save up to 20% on average rental prices
Opt for Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
Choose rental companies offering full-to-full fuel policies, allowing you to refill the tank yourself at local stations rather than paying premium rates to the rental company.
Save approximately AU$30-50 per rental
Avoid Airport Pickups
Renting a car at non-airport locations can save you from additional surcharges often applied at airport rental counters.
Save up to 15% on rental costs
Review Insurance Options
Check if your credit card offers car rental insurance coverage. This can help you avoid purchasing expensive additional insurance from the rental company.
Save up to AU$100 on insurance fees

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

Diamond Membership
Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
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Price Drop Protector
If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
View Details
One-Dollar Freeze
Lock in today's price with just $1 upfront and pay the rest later.
View Details
Flexible Payments
Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
View Details

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Austria.

Hidden Fees
Be aware of additional charges not included in the rental quote.
- Cross-border fees for traveling to neighboring countries
- Winter equipment charges (chains, winter tires)
- Additional driver fees
- Child seat rental fees
- Premium location surcharges (e.g., airport pickups)
Insurance Coverage
Understand the insurance policies offered by rental companies.
- Check if your travel insurance or credit card covers rentals
- Third-party insurance might be more affordable
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) usually has deductibles
- Verify coverage for theft protection
- Don't feel pressured to buy additional coverage
Road Rules and Regulations
Austrian driving laws may differ from those in Australia.
- Drive on the right-hand side of the road
- Use of seat belts is mandatory for all passengers
- Winter tires are required during snowy conditions
- Check for vignette requirement for highways
- Follow speed limits strictly to avoid fines
Rental Agreement Details
Review the rental contract carefully before signing.
- Confirm mileage limits and any associated fees
- Understand the fuel return policy
- Note the pickup and drop-off timings
- Check for restrictions on vehicle use (e.g., off-roading)
- Keep a copy of the agreement for reference
Vehicle Condition
Inspect the car thoroughly before and after the rental.
- Take pictures of any pre-existing damage
- Check the tires, lights, and windshield
- Ensure the fuel level is as stated in the contract
- Test the GPS and other included equipment
- Report any discrepancies immediately
Fuel Policies
Understand the fuel terms to avoid unexpected costs.
- Full-to-full policies are generally the most economical
- Prepaid fuel options are often more expensive
- Locate nearby fuel stations for refueling before return
- Keep fuel receipts as proof in case of disputes
- Confirm the type of fuel required (e.g., diesel or petrol)

Remember

Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.

Traffic Rules for Travelers from Australia to Austria

Traffic rules in Australia and Austria differ in areas like speed limits, alcohol tolerance, and signage conventions, with some similarities in universal safety measures.

Speed Limits
AT
Urban roads 50 km/h, highways 130 km/h
AU
Urban roads 60 km/h, highways 110 km/h
Blood Alcohol Limit
AT
0.05% BAC
AU
0.08% BAC
Signage Units
AT
Signage in kilometers per hour (km/h)
AU
Signage in kilometers per hour (km/h)
Seatbelt Usage
AT
Mandatory for all occupants
AU
Mandatory for all occupants
Mobile Phone Use
AT
Hands-free devices required
AU
Hands-free only
Parking Rules
AT
Parking in direction of traffic required
AU
Similar rules apply
Remember
- • Ensure your international driving permit is valid in Austria.
- • Familiarize yourself with local road signs and markings.
- • Keep emergency contact numbers readily accessible.
- • Always carry your rental agreement and personal identification.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from Australia renting a car in Austria

Can I rent and drive a car in Austria with my Australian driver's license?

Yes, you can, but you must have both your valid Australian driver's license and an International Driving Permit (IDP). Austrian law requires non-EU/EEA licenses to be accompanied by an IDP.

Where can I obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Australia?

IDPs are issued by state automobile associations such as NRMA, RACV, and RACQ. You can apply online or at their offices before your trip.

Is there a minimum age to rent a car in Austria?

Yes. Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 19 or 21 years old and to have held a license for at least one year. Drivers under 25 usually pay a Young Driver Surcharge.

What is the best platform to book a rental car in Austria?

We exclusively recommend QEEQ, which aggregates offers from major global and Austrian rental brands with clear insurance options and pricing.

Should I choose a manual or automatic car in Austria?

Manual transmissions are more common and cheaper in Europe. If you are not comfortable driving manual, book an automatic through QEEQ for easier adaptation to right-side driving.

What type of insurance should I get for my rental car?

Basic insurance (CDW and theft) is usually included but comes with a high excess. It's strongly recommended to buy full coverage or zero-excess insurance, preferably via QEEQ for better value.

Do I need a child safety seat for my kids in Austria?

Yes. Austrian law requires children under 135 cm or 14 years old to use an appropriate child seat. You can rent one from the rental company or bring your own.

How far in advance should I book my rental car?

Book at least 1-2 months ahead, especially for high season (June–August, December–February), to secure your preferred car and price.

What documents are required to rent a car in Austria?

You need your passport, valid Australian driver’s license, IDP, a credit card in the main driver’s name, and your rental confirmation.

Does the rental price shown include all fees?

Usually not. Base price covers the car, basic insurance, and taxes. Extras like young driver fee, additional driver, GPS, child seats, one-way or cross-border fees, and winter tires may apply. Read QEEQ's 'included/excluded' sections carefully.

Where do I pick up my rental car at Austrian airports?

Rental desks are typically in the arrivals hall, signposted as 'Car Rental.' After paperwork, you'll be directed to the parking lot to collect your car.

What should I check on the car at pick-up?

Inspect for scratches, dents, tire condition, cleanliness, and check all features (A/C, audio, GPS). Confirm starting mileage and fuel level match the contract. Take photos or videos as evidence.

What is the 'Vignette' and do I need to purchase it?

The Vignette is a motorway toll sticker required for Austrian highways. Rentals in Austria almost always have a valid Vignette already attached. Confirm this at pick-up.

What safety equipment must be present in the car?

A first-aid kit (Verbandskasten), warning triangle (Warndreieck), and reflective vest (Warnweste) are mandatory. Check all are present; the vest should be within the cabin, not the trunk.

What should I do if offered an upgrade or extra insurance at the counter?

If you're happy with your QEEQ booking and insurance, politely decline upgrades or extra coverage unless you genuinely want them. If you have third-party insurance, you may need to pay any excess first and claim it back later.

How much is the credit card deposit and when is it returned?

Deposits typically range from €500 to €2000. This amount is pre-authorized (not charged) and released after a damage-free, correctly fueled return, usually within days to two weeks.

What happens if my reserved car is unavailable?

The company must provide an equivalent or upgraded car at no extra cost. They cannot downgrade you without your agreement.

Can I add an additional driver to the rental?

Yes, but all drivers must be present at pick-up and show required documents. An Additional Driver Fee is usually charged per day.

What if the rental documents are in German?

Staff in major cities speak English and can provide or explain an English contract. Never sign anything you don’t understand, and focus on total cost, insurance, excess, fuel policy, and return conditions.

Should I rent a GPS from the car rental company?

Not usually. Rental GPS units are expensive. Using Google Maps or Waze on your smartphone is usually better. Bring a European SIM card or enable roaming, plus a car mount and charger.

What is the biggest challenge for Australians adapting to right-side driving in Austria?

Changing muscle memory. Always remember 'drive on the right.' Practice left turns (wide), right turns (tight), roundabouts (counterclockwise), and overtaking on the left.

What are Austria’s default speed limits?

Unless otherwise signed: 50 km/h in cities, 100 km/h on open roads, and 130 km/h on highways. Always watch for local signs.

What does an 'IG-L 100' sign on the motorway mean?

It marks an environmental speed limit zone (Immissionsschutzgesetz-Luft). The speed limit drops to 100 km/h, and fines for speeding are higher.

Which Austrian road signs are important to know?

Red triangle: Yield/Give way. Red octagon: Stop. Yellow diamond: Priority road. Yellow diamond with red slash: End of priority. Red-bordered circle: Prohibitions (e.g., speed).

Do I need to keep my headlights on while driving in Austria?

It's not mandatory during the day except in poor visibility or tunnels. For safety, it’s advisable to use dipped headlights at all times.

What are the rules for drink driving in Austria?

Strict. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%; for new and professional drivers, it's 0.01%. Best practice: never drink and drive.

Can I use my mobile phone while driving?

Only with hands-free equipment. Holding your phone to call, text, or use apps is illegal and heavily fined.

How should I behave around trams in Austria?

Trams have priority. Give way when they turn. If you are on the right of a stopped tram picking up/dropping passengers, you must stop and wait.

Are there special rules for winter driving in Austria?

From November 1 to April 15, winter tires are mandatory in wintery conditions. Check for M+S or snowflake symbols. Some mountain roads require snow chains; confirm your rental is equipped during winter.

What does the 'Blaue Zone' (Blue Zone) mean in cities?

It’s a short-term free parking area. You must use a blue parking disc (Parkscheibe) to show your arrival time, available in gas stations or sometimes in the car. Check local time limits.

Are there road tolls other than the Vignette in Austria?

Yes. Specific alpine tunnels, mountain passes, and scenic routes (e.g., Brenner Autobahn, Tauern Tunnel, Großglockner High Alpine Road) charge extra tolls, payable at toll booths.

Is city parking expensive in Austria? Any money-saving tips?

City center parking in Vienna, Salzburg, etc., is expensive and scarce. Use Park & Ride (P+R) lots on the outskirts for cheap all-day parking and take public transport downtown.

Are petrol stations in Austria self-service, and how do I pay?

Most are self-service. After fueling, note your pump number and pay at the store counter with cash or card. Highway stations are pricier and open 24/7.

How can I tell if my rental needs petrol or diesel?

Ask staff at pick-up. It’s often marked inside the fuel cap or in documents. Using the wrong fuel causes severe damage and is not covered by standard insurance.

What are typical fuel prices in Austria?

Prices fluctuate. Diesel is usually slightly cheaper than petrol (Super 95). Highway stations are most expensive; supermarkets or rural stations are cheaper.

What should I do if I receive a traffic fine?

On-the-spot fines must be paid directly. If issued by camera, the fine goes to the rental company, who deducts an admin fee and forwards your details for payment. Pay promptly to avoid late penalties.

Is fuel included in the rental price?

No. The usual policy is 'full-to-full': you must return the car with a full tank. If not, the company charges a high refueling fee.

Can I drive into Austrian environmental zones (Umweltzone)?

Most Umweltzones only affect trucks. Private cars are generally unaffected, but check for local restrictions in cities like Vienna.

How much extra budget should I allow for driving costs in Austria?

Budget €30-50 per day for fuel, parking, special tolls, and potential fines, in addition to your rental fee.

Is it easy to pay by credit card in Austria?

Yes. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted at rental agencies, petrol stations, supermarkets, and tolls. Small rural shops or parking meters may require cash.

What should I check when returning my rental car?

Refuel near the drop-off, keep the receipt, leave the car tidy, and inspect for new damage with staff. Get a final invoice and check for unexpected charges.

How do I return the car outside normal business hours?

Most locations offer a key drop box. Park as instructed, leave the keys and documents in the box. Photograph the car (inside and out, odometer, fuel) as proof.

What are the emergency numbers in Austria?

European emergency: 112; Fire: 122; Police: 133; Ambulance: 144; Roadside breakdown (ÖAMTC): 120.

What should I do if I have a car accident?

Stay calm. Use hazard lights, wear a reflective vest, place the warning triangle. For injuries, call 144 or 112. For minor accidents, exchange details and fill out the European Accident Statement. Always inform the rental company within 24 hours.

What if the car breaks down on the road?

Pull over safely. Use the rental company’s emergency number (on your contract) for 24-hour roadside assistance.

Can I drive the rental car to neighboring countries?

Usually yes, but you must declare your plans when booking or picking up. Most companies allow travel to Western and parts of Central Europe, sometimes for a cross-border fee. Restrictions are tighter for Eastern Europe.

Are traffic laws different in neighboring countries?

Generally similar, but some details differ: Germany has some unlimited-speed highways; Italy, Switzerland, and Czechia require their own motorway vignettes; Czechia requires daytime running lights. Check each country’s rules before crossing borders.

What happens if I drive into another country without permission?

It violates your rental contract and voids your insurance. You’d be liable for all damages and costs if anything happens.

Is one-way rental (different pick-up and drop-off cities/countries) possible?

Yes, but expect a significant one-way fee, especially for cross-border returns. QEEQ allows you to compare one-way rental costs easily.

What is the most important advice for Australian drivers self-driving in Austria?

Stay relaxed and give yourself time to adjust to right-side driving. Avoid city driving at first; practice on quieter roads. Prioritize safety and enjoy the Austrian scenery!

Still have questions？

Contact QEEQ via online chat or hotline for specific advice. Contact Support

Car Rental in Austria for Australian Travelers

Traveling from Australia to Austria opens doors to breathtaking landscapes and charming villages. Renting a car allows you to explore this European gem extensively. As an Australian traveler, you may wonder:

Can Australian Citizens Drive in Austria?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Australian Travelers

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Popular Destinations in Austria

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Money-Saving Tips for Car Rentals in Austria

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

Traffic Rules for Travelers from Australia to Austria

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations

Traveling from Australia to Austria opens doors to breathtaking landscapes and charming villages. Renting a car allows you to explore this European gem extensively.
As an Australian traveler, you may wonder: