IDP for driving in Austria

Whether it is required or not is beside the point. It is just good practice to have it. Which position would you rather be in??? Having it and not needing it?? Or Not having it and needing it?

This is just one experience... I've been pulled over in Austria and I did not need one.

Regardless of your choice concerning the I.D.P., do make sure you acquire a toll sticker to drive on Austrian highways.

Austria does require one. You may not be asked for it if you are stopped but if you are you could and probably would be fined on the spot for not having it. Definitely get one. You will be complying with the law and it will give you peace of mind. I got one today at AAA. Cost is $15.00 for the permit and if not a member of AAA they will charge you $10.00 for taking a photo. You could take your own photo with you but it would have to meet the guidelines required. You will need your regular license when traveling as well.

A list of countries that require the IDP:

http://www.aa.co.nz/motoring/licensingandtraining/international/Pages/where.aspx

Another link that may offer some insight.

http://europeforvisitors.com/europe/driving/international-driving-permit.htm

I have rented from Europcar and they did not ask me to show them an IDP. If you check their website, they merely recommend that drivers have an IDP. They also list countries where is mandatory.

I was told by Europcar that one is required for Austria, AND Europcar requires one regardless of where you drive.

Yes you do...it is REQUIRED in Austria. While Europcar may not have asked some drivers for one, their website does list it as mandatory for Austria.

Europcar does not pull you over for speeding. The Austrian police do.

That's why you need an IDP.

Let's say it one more time: Whether the rental car company asks to see an IDP is irrelevant to the question of whether the law of the country you're in requires it.

Doug and Kent, excellent replies in a nutshell.

Here 's the quite from Gemut.com when they confirmed my reservation:

"GEMUT.COM HIGHLY RECOMMENDS RENTERS PRESENT AN INTERNATIONAL DRIVING PERMIT AT THE RENTAL DESK. THE PERMIT IS MANDATORY IN AUSTRIA AND WITH EUROPCAR IN GERMANY."

ooops! I meant to say Here's the QUOTE....

When crossing into Austria traveling Munich to Salzburg, I was asked to present the IDP at the border. Don't expect they stop you at the border these days but do expect to be asked for it if stopped. Best to err on the side of caution and get an IDP.

Thank you all for your responses. we are defintely getting an IDP
Thanks!