When it comes to driving in Austria, it’s not just traffic rules you need to watch out for. There’s a surprising list of items you’re not allowed to carry – or at least not allowed to carry freely – in your car. Here’s what you need to know.
Austria’s roads might be picturesque, but navigating the country’s traffic regulations can sometimes feel less like a scenic drive and more like a maze. Beyond basic rules like wearing your seatbelt or not texting at the wheel, there’s a whole host of other restrictions that might surprise you – especially when it comes to what you’re permitted to carry in your vehicle.
To avoid potentially hefty fines (or worse), here’s what you should leave at home or at least handle carefully the next time you drive in Austria.
Knives: most are fine, but some are banned
Austria has relatively relaxed knife laws compared to other European countries, with no explicit bans on common knives. However, it explicitly prohibits some types of concealed or disguised weapons, including throwing stars and sword canes – objects explicitly designed to conceal or deceive.
While carrying a standard pocket knife or multi-tool isn’t generally an issue, it’s wise to exercise common sense: avoid anything that could reasonably be mistaken for a weapon or disguised as an everyday object.
READ ALSO: What happens if you commit a driving offence outside Austria?
Firearms: strict transport rules
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Firearms in Austria are regulated rigorously, including strict rules around transportation. Owning a gun in Austria typically requires a weapons ownership card (Waffenbesitzkarte), but carrying one outside your home or private property requires a firearms pass (Waffenpass), which is harder to acquire.
If you have a firearm and need to transport it legally, Austrian law requires it to be unloaded and stored in a closed container.
According to Armin Kaltenegger from the Austrian Road Safety Board (KFV), transporting a weapon to an authorised location – such as a gun dealer, shooting range, or your second home – is allowed. But the ammunition must be stored separately from the firearm, and detours or additional stops are explicitly prohibited.
Firearms tucked casually into glove compartments or holsters inside your vehicle are strictly forbidden and could result in serious legal trouble.
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Dashcams: legal, but with strict rules
Dashcams – small cameras fitted to dashboards or windscreens – are gaining popularity across Europe, but Austria enforces strict data protection laws. Recording with a dashcam is permitted only in very limited circumstances.
Dashcams must be set up to limit their scope, ideally only filming your immediate vehicle surroundings. Permanent or systematic recordings are strictly prohibited as these fall under data privacy restrictions.
Video sequences triggered by specific events – like an accident – are generally acceptable, but prolonged recordings, wide-angle views, or sharing these videos publicly (such as on social media) can lead to significant fines and legal issues.
Radar or traffic apps: tread carefully
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Using smartphone apps to detect radars, traffic jams, or even fuel prices is permitted only under specific conditions. Such apps must function similarly to navigation systems, mounted securely within the vehicle, and cannot be operated while driving. Searching or inputting data requires stopping your vehicle completely, not just slowing down.
Apps used purely to detect police radars or speed traps are forbidden, and their use could lead to substantial penalties.
READ ALSO: Can you be fined for driving while sick in Austria?
Dogs: properly secured or pay a hefty fine
Many dog owners underestimate the strict rules around transporting pets in Austria. Legally, pets are considered “cargo,” and like any cargo, they must be securely transported in your car. Failing to secure your dog properly could land you fines of up to €5,000.
The safest method recommended by experts like TierQuarTier is using a secured metal transport box in the boot, particularly for larger dogs. Smaller dogs can travel in secured carriers in the back seat.
Specially tested harnesses are another option, but ordinary collars or harnesses intended for walks are insufficient.
Loose dogs – even if well-behaved – are a serious violation. Not only do unsecured pets risk injury during abrupt stops, but they’re also considered a potential distraction for the driver, leading to increased safety risks and hefty fines.
READ ALSO: What are the rules in Austria for having dogs and cats in your car?
People not in the proper places or without seatbelts
Austrian law states that every occupant of the car – front seat or back – must wear a seatbelt, provided the seat is equipped with one. The driver is responsible for ensuring that anyone under 14 is properly buckled up, but those aged 14 and over are responsible for themselves, according to official guidelines.
Police checks regularly enforce this rule, and violations come with fines that can quickly add up – so buckle up, every time.
Mobile phones: hands off unless hands-free
Mobile phone regulations are strict in Austria, and while driving, your mobile phone must remain strictly hands-free. This includes calls, navigation, or voice commands – meaning a hands-free kit or fixed phone holder is required.
Holding your phone – even briefly between your shoulder and head – is strictly prohibited and carries a fine of €100. Refuse to pay, and this can escalate to a fine of €140 or even a short jail sentence of up to 24 hours.
READ ALSO: The six ways you can lose your driving licence in Austria
If you’re using your phone as a GPS, it needs to be securely mounted, and you cannot enter addresses while driving. Activities like texting, checking social media, or even selecting a specific song while behind the wheel are strictly off-limits.
Plugging your phone in for charging is also considered “handling” your phone and thus prohibited while driving. So make sure to set your playlist, navigation route, or charge your battery before you set off.
This story is intended as a general guide. Check the local rules and associations before driving off, especially if you plan on carrying anything of value or that could be dangerous.
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