In Austria, the testing of automated vehicles is allowed, as long as certain requirements are fulfilled. These requirements are defined in the Ordinance on Automated Driving (AutomatFahrV). Further instructions are specified in the Code of Practice. 

The Ordinance on Automated Driving (AutomatFahrV) currently permits the following applications:

1. Automated vehicle for passenger transport
2. Automated vehicle for the transport of goods
3. Motorway pilot with automated lane change
4. Motorway pilot with automated driving on motorway on- and off-ramps and exits
5. Automated military vehicle
6. Automated valte parking
7. Automated working machine

Once all requirements of the AutomatFahrV are met, the BMK issues a certificate that permits testing on roads, which are publicly accessible. Compliance with the Code of Practice is another requirement that all test organisations should comply with in order to enable safe testing.

Since 2016, numerous organisations and research institutions have been testing automated vehicles in Austria. These test activities are regularly submitted to the BMK in form of a semi-annual interim report as well as a final report after expiry of the certificate for the purpose of securing experience and building up knowledge. If you are interested in the testing reports, we recommend that you take a look at the test reports on the BMK website (only available in German).

The requirements and relevant information for obtaining a test certificate according to the ordinance can be found here (Link follows soon).

You will find a schematic overview of the application process here (Link follows soon).

Deadlines for applications

Applications for tests with automated vehicles can be sent to the Contact Point by e-mail using the application form. The deadlines are:

• January 25, 2024
• April 17, 2024
• August 14, 2024
• October 9, 2024

At the end of the respective period, the submitted test applications will be evaluated technically and legally. Usually, you will receive feedback on the next steps of your application within five working days.

Currently, it is not possible to perform tests on roads, which are publicly accessible beyond the scope of the Ordinance on Automated Driving (AutomatFahrV). However, the Contact Point Automated Mobility will gladly collect the relevant requirements in order to include them into the process of expanding the test possibilities, where appropriate. Companies wishing to carry out such tests should get in touch with the Contact Point Automated Mobility at an early panning stage. Contact us via automatisierung@austriatech.at.