Austria introduces new driving rules: Big changes from Sept. 1

Austria is set to introduce significant changes to its driving license regulations starting September 1. These updates, constituting the 23rd amendment to the Austrian Driving Licenses Act (FSG), will impact various groups of drivers, including professionals, individuals applying for new licenses, and those who have lost their permits.

For professional drivers holding C and D category licenses (trucks and buses), their permits will now remain valid for five years even after reaching the age of 60. Previously, drivers in this age group had to renew their licenses every two years. Additionally, international driving permits issued under the Vienna Convention will see their validity extended from one year to three years. However, this extension does not apply to permits issued under different conventions, such as those used in the United States and Canada, which will continue to be valid for one year.

The regulations for taking the driving test are also being modified. Candidates who fail an exam will be able to reapply after just 12 days, a reduction from the previous two-week waiting period. Conversely, penalties for attempting to cheat on the test are being significantly increased, with the period during which a candidate is barred from retaking the exam doubling from nine to 18 months.

Furthermore, drivers who lose their license or have it stolen will benefit from an extended validity period for the replacement certificate. This document will now serve as a temporary driving permit for up to eight weeks, twice the previous duration. While duplicate licenses are typically issued sooner, this extension aims to provide additional security if the issuance process is delayed. The changes also address scenarios where drivers voluntarily relinquish certain or all driving categories, requiring them to surrender their license if they give up all rights to drive.