Driving License Conversion Rules for Expats and Residents in Austria
Updated June 30, 2026
If you establish official residence (Hauptwohnsitz) in Austria, specific rules govern how long you can drive using a foreign license before converting to an Austrian driving license (Führerschein).
The 6-Month Expat Rule
- EU / EEA Licenses: Valid indefinitely in Austria until official expiration.
- Non-EU / Non-EEA Licenses: Valid for strictly 6 months from the date of establishing residence. Beyond 6 months, driving on an un-converted foreign license is legally treated as driving without a license.
Conversion Procedure Requirements
- Application: Submit application at the local Police Authority (LPD) or District Commission (Bezirkshauptmannschaft).
- Medical Examination (Amtsärztliches Gutachten): Mandatory medical assessment by a designated physician.
- Practical Test: May be required depending on bilateral agreements with your home country.
Driving without a valid license beyond the 6-month window incurs fines starting from €363 up to €2,180.
Set an administrative conversion reminder in WrooWroo when relocating to Austria.
Sources
- Oesterreich.gv.at Official Government Portal (opens in a new tab)
- Austrian Federal Ministry of the Interior (BMI) (opens in a new tab)
Information compiled from the official sources listed above and verified on the update date. It is provided for guidance only and is not legal advice — always confirm with the official source before you act.
Keep your vehicle 100% compliant with WrooWroo
Track mandatory insurance (RCA), technical inspections (MOT/TÜV/ITP), and road vignettes across 31 European countries automatically.