Hello...we are planning a loop from Paris through Southern Germany, Austria, Switzerland and back to Paris by car. Can anyone please give us information about what type of car stickers etc..that we need. Can we buy parking stickers, country stickers(?) etc. before we leave the US? I read that the car has to have some emergency supplies like a safety vest? Where can we get this? Is it required for all countries? Do Paris rental agencies supply this? Thank you.
Posted by
Minneapolis, MN, USA
8700 posts
Here are some quotes from the Auto Europe site about stickers.
Austria: "Austria requires all vehicles using the autobahn to display a highway toll sticker. Rental companies in Austria charge approximately US $0.65 per day for a toll sticker. Stickers are available at the border or gas stations when entering from another country."
Switzerland: "Highways in Switzerland require a toll sticker that costs approximately US $28. Cars rented in Switzerland have the sticker attached; otherwise you must purchase the sticker separately. The fine is approx US $100 for driving without a sticker."
An International Driver Permit is required in Austria, but not in the other countries on your list. Buy one at your local AAA office.
When I rented cars in Ireland and France, I didn't ask about emergency supplies like safety vests. I assumed everything I needed would be provided. I suggest that you call Auto Europe's US toll-free number and ask them.
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
The rental agency may provide the vignette stickers for Austria and Switzerland if you ask.
Posted by
Berlin, Germany
337 posts
I assumed everything I needed would be provided.
That is generally true for the country you rent the car in, but not for international trips.
In Germany you need a warning triangle according to ECE R27 and a first aid kit according to DIN 13164. In France and Austria you need a warning vest according to EN 471.