Winter Transport in Austria 2026: Snow Chains, Ice Removal and Cycling
Winter in Austria changes more than driving habits: it also brings specific legal obligations. This guide explains the rules on carrying and using snow chains, removing ice and snow from vehicles, and cycling safely in winter.
Who must carry snow chains in Austria?
The obligation to carry snow chains (Schneekettenmitnahmepflicht) is governed by Section 102 of the Motor Vehicles Act (Kraftfahrgesetz, KFG). It does not apply to every vehicle.
The rule applies to:
- trucks (Lkw) with a permitted maximum gross weight of more than 3.5 tonnes,
- buses (Omnibusse),
- motor vehicles derived from these vehicles.
These vehicles must carry suitable snow chains for at least two driven wheels.
Period and minimum equipment
- Period: November 1 to April 15
- Vehicles covered: trucks over 3.5 tonnes, buses and vehicles derived from them
- Minimum equipment: snow chains for at least two driven wheels
When may snow chains be fitted?
The fact that chains are in the vehicle does not mean they may be used at any time. Snow chains may be fitted only when they are genuinely necessary. This is the case when the road is covered by a continuous or barely interrupted layer of snow or ice.
Chains must be secured in a way that prevents them from damaging the road surface.
Who is exempt from the snow-chain requirement?
The rule does not apply to vehicles:
- on which snow chains cannot be fitted because of their construction,
- designed to be used exclusively on snow-free roads,
- that are M2 or M3 category buses operating as scheduled services (Kraftfahrlinienverkehr),
- being delivered to the body manufacturer or the buyer, provided that the journey takes place on snow-free roads.
What must be cleared from a vehicle before driving?
This rule applies to every motor vehicle driver. Before setting off, the driver must ensure that visibility is sufficient for safe driving.
Removing ice and snow (Entfernung von Eis und Schnee) includes:
- Every window: not only the windscreen, but all other glass as well.
- Lighting: all lights on the vehicle.
- Number plates: they must be completely visible and legible.
- Trailer: if you are towing one, its lights and number plate must also be cleared.
- Roof: snow and ice should be removed because they may come loose while driving.
A small viewing hole is not enough
Clearing only a small section of the windscreen is punishable. In the event of an accident, this may also have insurance consequences.
More information about insurance is available here: Compulsory car insurance in Austria 2026: Kfz-Haftpflichtversicherung and the Bonus-Malus system.
May you leave the engine running to warm up the car?
No. Running the engine while the vehicle is stationary to warm it up before departure (Warmlaufenlassen) is expressly prohibited and may result in a fine. You cannot replace scraping ice with waiting for the heater to clear the windows while the engine is running.
The rules on winter tyres (Winterreifenpflicht) and studded tyres (Spikereifen) are separate topics and are not covered here.
Winter cycling: what should you consider?
You can cycle in winter, but moisture, cold and road salt put additional strain on a bicycle. Have the bicycle checked or serviced in autumn, then maintain it regularly. Test the brakes and gears before every journey.
An important rule concerns cycle paths (Radfahranlage): if a cycle path has not been cleared, or has not been cleared adequately, and using it therefore cannot reasonably be expected for safety reasons, you are not required to use it.
Practical bicycle recommendations
- Saddle: set it 1 or 2 cm lower than usual.
- Tyre pressure: reduce it to between 3.5 and 4 bar.
- Tyres: choose wider tyres with a deeper tread; on smooth roads, studded tyres may be suitable.
- Gears: hub gears freeze less often.
- Brakes: disc brakes or roller brakes (Rollbremse).
- Turning: reduce speed and keep the lean angle below 10 degrees.
Further practical advice:
- Wear high-visibility, windproof and waterproof clothing and reflective accessories.
- Remove detachable lights after the journey because the cold quickly drains the battery.
- Keep a locked bicycle’s lock facing downwards so meltwater cannot enter and freeze.
- Avoid tram tracks, manhole covers and fallen leaves.
- Do not cycle or brake on slippery sections.
An electric bicycle can also be used in winter, but its battery loses capacity in cold conditions. Take the battery with you and charge it in a room kept between 10 and 15 degrees. A separate article covers e-scooters: Austria’s new e-scooter regulations.
Frequently asked questions
Must I carry snow chains in a passenger car?
The obligation between November 1 and April 15 applies to trucks over 3.5 tonnes, buses and vehicles derived from them.
Is clearing only the windscreen enough?
No. All windows, the lights and the number plates must also be cleared. A small viewing hole is punishable.
Can I melt the ice by leaving the engine running?
No. Warming the engine before departure is expressly prohibited and may lead to a fine.
Must I use a snowy cycle path?
If the cycle path has not been cleared adequately and using it cannot reasonably be expected for safety reasons, you do not have to use it.
Practical steps before travelling
- Check whether your vehicle is among those required to carry snow chains between November 1 and April 15.
- Before departure, clear every window, all lights, the number plates, the trailer if applicable, and the roof.
- Do not warm up a stationary vehicle with the engine running.
- Before cycling, test the brakes and gears and check the condition and pressure of the tyres.
- Use extra caution on slippery surfaces and assess whether a poorly cleared cycle path can safely be used.
This article is based on sources available online and does not constitute advice. Use of the information is at your own risk. If you need professional advice, consult a lawyer, legal professional, healthcare professional, employment-law or labour-law specialist, or another relevant professional.
Source: oesterreich.gv.at