Car Rental in Austria for Polish Travelers

Embarking on a trip from Poland to Austria opens up a world of possibility. However, for travelers planning to rent a car there, it's important to understand the driving norms and requirements. This guide provides essential information tailored to Polish citizens looking to rent vehicles in Austria.

Do I need an international driving permit in Austria?
What is required to rent a car as a Polish citizen?
Which documents should I present at the rental desk?
What are the average car rental costs in Austria?
Are there road tolls, and how does one pay them in Austria?

By understanding the car rental process, licensing conditions, and notable driving rules, Polish travelers can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey through Austria. From pricing tips to regulations, this guide serves as your starting point.

Can Portuguese Citizens Drive in Austria?

Yes, Portuguese 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 or Switzerland/United Kingdom 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. Accepted cards include Visa and MasterCard.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be between 18 and 99 years old. Young drivers aged 18-25 may incur an additional fee of US$ 11.73 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?

Explore dependable car rental options for travelers from Portugal to Austria, emphasizing reliability, affordability, and convenience.

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 Portuguese Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

First time renting in Austria
Require extensive nationwide coverage
Expect 24/7 customer support
Traveling for business or essential purposes

Choose Local Brands If:

Prefer cost-effective solutions
Planning to stay in major cities
Interested in unique vehicle options
Comfortable using app-based services

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your trip 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 both types before making a choice
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 Portuguese 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
cross-country in Austria
Vacation
SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Alpine regions

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.

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No hidden fees
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What Are the Popular Destinations in the USA?

The USA offers diverse iconic routes and popular city loops that suit different travel styles. You can also choose one-way rentals to explore more efficiently.

What Insurance Do I Need?

When renting a car in Austria, it's essential to have adequate insurance coverage. Austria mandates liability insurance, but additional coverage can provide peace of mind and financial security during your travels.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental car caused by accidents or collisions.
€14-23/day
Essential
Theft Protection (TP)
Provides coverage against theft or attempted theft of the rental vehicle.
€5-8/day
Essential
Third-Party Liability Insurance
Covers injuries or damages caused to other people and their property while operating the rental vehicle.
Often included in the rental price
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers in case of an accident.
€4-7/day
Optional
Super Collision Damage Waiver (Super CDW)
Reduces the excess amount to a minimal figure in case of damage or theft.
€12-20/day
Recommended

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$0.00 - US$8,298.60

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

US$0.00 - US$8,298.60

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

How to Book a Rental Car and Save Money?

Booking smart can easily save you money when renting a car in Austria, especially for Portuguese travelers planning months in advance. Prices for rental cars vary based on season, location, and demand, so timing and the choice of booking platform are crucial.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book Early
Reserve your car 4-6 weeks in advance to secure competitive rates and ensure a greater selection of vehicles.
Save up to 25%
Compare Prices
Utilize comparison websites like Kayak or Rentalcars.com to find the most competitive offers available.
Save up to 20%
Opt for Full Tank Policy
Choose car rental companies that offer a full-to-full fuel policy to avoid overpaying for refueling fees.
Save €15-€40
Avoid Extra Insurance
Verify if your travel insurance or credit card covers rental car insurance to avoid unnecessary additional costs.
Save €10-€25 per day

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.
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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 extra charges that may not be initially apparent.
- Airport surcharges (€10-20/day)
- Young driver fees (under 23)
- Additional driver fees
- Optional equipment (GPS, child seats)
- Winterization fees (snow tires)
Insurance Policies
Understand the insurance options offered and evaluate their necessity.
- Verify coverage with your current policy
- Check credit card rental insurance benefits
- Evaluate if additional coverage is required
- Inspect deductible rates
- Decline unnecessary upselling
Fuel Policies
Understand how you are expected to manage fuel during your rental period.
- Full-to-full policies are cost-effective
- Prepaid fuel options may be expensive
- Locate nearby gas stations before returning the car
- Keep receipts for proof of refueling
- Return the vehicle at the agreed fuel level
Vehicle Inspection
Conduct a thorough inspection to document the car's condition.
- Check for existing damages and scratches
- Photograph the car's exterior and interior
- Test all essential equipment
- Ensure proper operation of headlights and indicators
- Verify mileage and fuel level
Rental Agreement Terms
Read the contract carefully to avoid misunderstandings.
- Mileage limits and associated fees
- Driving restrictions for certain regions
- Return timing policies
- Cancellation and modification fees
- Procedures for reporting damages
Pickup and Return Timing
Plan your schedule to optimize the rental experience.
- Pick up during office hours for smoother service
- Avoid peak times at busy locations
- Late returns may result in extra charges
- Early returns might not refund unused days
- Account for traffic when planning drop-offs

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.

Comparison of Traffic Rules Between Portugal and Austria

Portugal and Austria have notable differences in traffic regulations, particularly regarding speed limits, alcohol consumption, and road signage. However, there are also similarities in fundamental safety practices.

Speed Limits
AT
Generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 130 km/h on highways
PT
Generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 120 km/h on highways
Alcohol Limit
AT
0.05% BAC
PT
0.08% BAC
Winter Tires
AT
Mandatory during winter conditions
PT
Not mandatory, but recommended in specific areas
Driving Side
AT
Right-hand drive
PT
Right-hand drive
Seatbelt Laws
AT
Mandatory for all vehicle occupants
PT
Mandatory for all vehicle occupants
Mobile Phone Use
AT
Hands-free devices only
PT
Hands-free devices only
Parking Rules
AT
Pay attention to local signs and regulations
PT
Pay attention to local signs and regulations
Remember
- • Ensure to carry your valid driving license and rental agreement at all times.
- • Familiarize yourself with Austrian-specific road signs.
- • Be cautious of wildlife crossings in rural areas.
- • Always adhere to the speed limits and local laws.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from Portugal renting a car in Austria

Why is it recommended to use a booking platform like QEEQ to rent a car in Austria?

QEEQ is highly recommended because it works as a powerful comparison tool, allowing you to see prices and options from multiple rental companies in one place. It also offers clear conditions, exclusive promotions, and its own insurance products, simplifying the process and helping you find the most competitive price for your needs.

What is usually included in the rental price shown on QEEQ?

The initial price displayed on QEEQ generally includes the car rental for the specified period, mandatory third‑party liability insurance, Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection (TP) with a high excess, all local taxes (VAT), and unlimited mileage (in most cases, but always double‑check). Mandatory winter fees will also be included where applicable.

What is the security deposit and how much should I expect?

The security deposit is an amount blocked (not charged) on your credit card by the rental company at pickup. It covers possible damage, fines, or fuel differences. The amount usually corresponds to the insurance excess plus the cost of a full tank of fuel. For standard cars in Austria, expect between €800 and €2,000, as specified on your QEEQ voucher.

Can I use a Portuguese debit card or Multibanco to pay for the rental or the deposit?

This is not recommended. Although it may be possible to pay the initial booking on QEEQ with a debit card, almost all rental companies in Austria require a credit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit. Debit, prepaid cards, or cash are not accepted for blocking the deposit.

What are the most common extra charges when renting a car?

In addition to the base rental price, watch out for: young driver fee (for drivers under 25), additional driver fee, one‑way fee, cross‑border fee, equipment rental (GPS, child seats, snow chains), and airport/train station surcharges.

How does the QEEQ Price Drop Protector feature work?

After you complete your booking, QEEQ monitors prices for the same car, location, and dates. If the price drops, your booking is automatically adjusted to the lower rate and the difference is refunded, saving you money with no action required on your side.

Can I cancel my QEEQ booking if my plans change?

Yes. Most bookings on QEEQ offer free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup. However, always check the specific policy of the chosen offer, as highly promotional or prepaid bookings may have more restrictive conditions.

Is it cheaper to book in advance or last minute?

It is almost always cheaper to book in advance, especially via QEEQ. By booking 2–3 months ahead, you’ll have more options and better prices. Last‑minute bookings, especially for holidays or in summer, are usually more expensive and with limited availability.

What is CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) and is it included?

CDW limits your financial liability for damage to the bodywork of the rental car. In Austria, basic CDW is almost always included in the price, but with a high excess; you will still have to pay for damages up to that amount.

What does 'excess' or 'deductible' mean in rental insurance?

The excess (or deductible) is the maximum amount you will have to pay out of pocket in case of damage or theft. For example, if your excess is €1,500 and the damage is €2,000, you pay €1,500 and the insurance covers the rest. Minor damage below the excess is entirely your responsibility.

What are Theft Protection (TP) and Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI)?

TP covers theft of the vehicle and usually comes with a high excess. SLI increases the coverage limit for third‑party damage. For drivers with a Portuguese driving licence, the minimum mandatory third‑party coverage already exists, but SLI can be considered for extra peace of mind.

Is it worth buying 'Super CDW' or 'Zero Excess' insurance offered at the rental counter?

These insurances reduce the excess to zero, but they are usually expensive. As an alternative, QEEQ offers a more affordable full protection insurance, which can be purchased instead of the rental company’s offer.

How does QEEQ’s Full Protection insurance work?

QEEQ’s Full Protection is a reimbursement insurance: if there is damage, you pay the rental company up to the excess amount and then claim a refund by submitting the required documents to QEEQ’s insurer. It usually covers items excluded from the standard CDW, such as tyres, windows, and the underside of the car.

Does standard insurance cover tyres, windows, roof and the underside of the car?

No. Standard CDW usually excludes damage to tyres, wheels, windows, roof, underside, and loss of keys. To cover these items, you need to purchase the rental company’s premium package or QEEQ’s Full Protection.

Can I rely on the insurance from my Portuguese credit card?

Some premium cards offer car rental insurance, but you must carefully check the conditions: coverage limits, included countries, and whether you must pay the full rental with that card. There is often still an excess, and coverage may not be as comprehensive as a dedicated insurance policy.

What should I do when I arrive at the rental counter?

Have all documents ready: passport/ID, Portuguese driving licence, credit card (in the main driver’s name), and your QEEQ voucher. Expect the agent to offer upgrades and extra insurance; politely decline if you don’t need them or if you have already purchased QEEQ’s Full Protection.

Which items should I carefully inspect on the car before leaving?

Carry out a thorough inspection, checking: scratches, dents, damage to windows, tyres/wheels, interior (stains, tears), lights, wipers, air conditioning, and mileage. Do not rush this process.

How should I document pre‑existing damage on the rental car?

Use your smartphone to record a video with date and time of the car inside and out, plus detailed photos of any damage. Inform the agent about every detail and make sure it is recorded on the vehicle condition report, and keep a signed copy.

What is the 'Full to Full' fuel policy and why is it recommended?

You receive the car with a full tank and must return it full. This way, you only pay for what you use, at normal pump prices, avoiding extra fees. Avoid 'Full to Empty' policies, where you pay an inflated amount with no refund for unused fuel.

What should I check on the rental agreement before signing it?

Confirm that the final price matches your QEEQ voucher, that declined extras are not included or marked as free, and check the car details, fuel policy, and return date/time. Ask for any incorrect item to be corrected before signing.

What if the rental company doesn’t have the exact model I booked?

Bookings are made by category (e.g. 'Economy'), not by a guaranteed model. If the specific model is not available, the rental company must provide a similar or higher category car at no extra cost.

What is the 'Vignette' and do I need to worry about it when renting in Austria?

The 'Vignette' is a mandatory toll sticker for Austrian motorways. Cars rented in Austria are legally required to come with a valid 'Vignette' on the windscreen. You only need to buy one if you rent in another country and then enter Austria.

What are the general speed limits in Austria?

Unless otherwise indicated: motorways 130 km/h, expressways 100 km/h, rural roads 100 km/h, and urban areas 50 km/h. Pay attention to lower limits, especially in urban and mountainous areas.

What are the winter driving requirements in Austria?

From 1 November to 15 April, winter tyres are mandatory in snowy, icy, or slushy conditions. All rental cars during this period are equipped accordingly. In alpine areas, snow chains may be required, signposted by specific road signs.

How does parking work in Austrian cities and what are 'blue zones'?

In city centres, there are 'Kurzparkzonen' (short‑term parking zones). In 'Blue Zones', you must display a parking disc ('Parkscheibe') to park free of charge for a limited time. In paid areas, purchase a ticket at kiosks ('Trafik') and display it on the dashboard.

What is the legal blood alcohol limit for drivers in Austria?

The limit is 0.05%. For newly licensed drivers (less than two years) and professional drivers, the limit is 0.01%. Enforcement is strict and penalties are severe. The safest option is not to drink at all if you are driving.

How do I know which fuel to use in the rental car?

The fuel type will be indicated on the fuel cap, the car key, or in the contract. 'Super' or 'Benzin' means petrol, and 'Diesel' is diesel. Using the wrong fuel can cause expensive damage not covered by insurance.

Are there special rules for driving in cities like Vienna?

Yes. Watch out for trams—they always have priority. Many city centres are pedestrian zones or have complex one‑way systems. It is often best to use 'Park & Ride' facilities on the outskirts and use public transport to get around.

Is it allowed to use a mobile phone while driving in Austria?

No, unless you use a hands‑free system. Handheld mobile phone use while driving is prohibited and can result in hefty fines.

Is it mandatory to use headlights during the day?

It is not mandatory for cars, but it is recommended to keep dipped headlights on for better visibility, especially on rural roads and in bad weather. For motorcycles it is mandatory.

What are the rules for children in the car?

Children under 14 years old and shorter than 135 cm must use an appropriate child seat or booster, suitable for their weight and height. You can rent this equipment through QEEQ or bring it from Portugal.

Can I take the car rented in Austria to neighbouring countries like Germany, Italy or Switzerland?

In general, yes, but you must inform the rental company at pickup and pay the cross‑border fee. Travel to some Eastern European countries may be restricted, especially for premium cars.

Do I need to buy vignettes for other countries if I cross borders?

Yes. The Austrian 'Vignette' is only valid in Austria. For Switzerland, Slovenia, or the Czech Republic, you must buy the corresponding sticker at the border. In Germany there are no motorway tolls for cars, and in Italy you pay tolls at booths along the motorways.

What should I do in case of an accident with the rental car?

Stop the car, switch on the hazard lights, and put on the reflective vest. In case of injury, call 112 (emergency) or 133 (police). Exchange details with those involved, take photos, fill in the European accident report, and inform the rental company immediately.

What should I do if the car breaks down?

Park safely, switch on the hazard lights, and call the rental company’s 24‑hour roadside assistance number (found in the contract or on the windscreen). Provide your location and describe the issue. Do not attempt repairs yourself.

What happens if I get a traffic fine?

If you are caught by a speed camera or similar, the fine will be sent to the rental company, which will pay it and charge the amount to your card, plus an administrative fee. It is cheaper to follow the traffic rules.

What emergency equipment must be in the car?

By law, the car must have a reflective vest, first‑aid kit, and warning triangle. The rental company is responsible for providing these items; check that they are present when you inspect the car.

How do I find the rental car return area at the airport?

Follow the signs 'Mietwagen‑Rückgabe' or 'Car Rental Return' as you approach the airport. They will guide you to the dedicated rental car parking area. Then follow the signs for the company you rented from.

What is the typical procedure when returning the car?

Park in the designated bay, wait for the agent to inspect the vehicle, check for damage, fuel level, and mileage. Record a video of the car’s condition at return as evidence. The agent will close the contract if everything is in order.

What happens if I don’t refill the tank before returning the car?

If you return the car with less fuel than you received, the rental company will refuel it and charge you a much higher price per litre than at petrol stations, plus a service fee. Always refuel near the return location.

How can I ensure a full refund of the security deposit?

Return the car at the correct time and location, with a full tank (keep the fuel receipt), clean, and without new damage. If there is damage and you have QEEQ’s Full Protection, follow the reimbursement procedure. Request a final signed receipt confirming a problem‑free return.

When will the security deposit be released on my credit card?

The release is initiated immediately after the return and final inspection, but it may take 5 to 15 business days for the funds to become available again, depending on the bank and the rental company.

Still have questions？

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

Car Rental in Austria for Polish Travelers

Can Portuguese Citizens Drive in Austria?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Portuguese Travelers

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

What Are the Popular Destinations in the USA?

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Book a Rental Car and Save Money?

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

Comparison of Traffic Rules Between Portugal and Austria

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations