Traffic rules Czech Republic
The Czech Republic, the heart of Europe, is known not only for its rich history, picturesque landscapes and the famous city of Prague, but also as a popular travel destination for motorists.
Whether you want to walk in the historic footsteps of the old towns, drive through the picturesque wine regions in the south, or experience the rugged beauty of the Ore Mountains: in order to cross the country safely and without legal problems, it is important to know and understand the traffic regulations that apply there.
This comprehensive guide offers you in-depth information on all relevant differences to the traffic regulations in Germany.
The most important facts
The blood alcohol limit is 0.0 - as opposed to 0.5 in Germany.
The speed limit on some well-developed motorway sections was raised to 150 km/h at the beginning of 2024.
In 2024, fines were increased by up to five times.
What you need to bring with you
So that you don't run into difficulties because you're missing documents or don't know the mandatory items you must carry, we have summarized the most important things for you here. First, it's good to know that a German driving licence is sufficient. Of course, you must have this with you, as well as the vehicle registration certificate part I (or the vehicle registration document).
The German number plate is sufficient as proof of valid third-party motor insurance, but we recommend bringing the IVK (International Insurance Card). This shows that your car has third-party motor insurance. You can request the card free of charge from your motor insurer. This also includes finding out from your motor insurer before you set off whether you have sufficient insurance cover.
In addition, the national identification symbol must either be attached to the car or included in the Euro number plate.
Toll
As in many other countries, the collection of toll fees in the Czech Republic serves to finance infrastructure measures. The fees collected are used to finance both the maintenance and the expansion and modernisation of the road network. This helps to ensure the quality and safety of the transport network in the long term and at the same time supports economic and regional development. In some cases, the fee is also used to control traffic, for example through higher fees at peak times to avoid traffic jams. Toll regulations, systems and amounts can vary depending on the country, region and road type, and different provisions often apply to different vehicle classes and weights.
Since 2021, a digital vignette has been due in the Czech Republic for motorways and expressways. The sticker vignette, which became known under the name "Klebe Pickerl", therefore no longer needs to be stuck to the car and was abolished as part of this reform. In order to avoid long queues at the vending machines at the border, travellers are generally advised to purchase the toll vignette before entering the country. To make the process as easy as possible for you, you can register a digital vignette directly on this page. Once purchased, it is immediately valid throughout the Czech Republic.
The toll obligation in the Czech Republic applies to all motor vehicles travelling on motorways and expressways. The obligation to pay the toll applies to both domestic and foreign vehicles if they have at least 4 wheels, provided the permissible maximum weight does not exceed 3.5 tonnes and a motorway or expressway is being used. Trailers and motorcycles are not subject to the toll obligation. Vehicles with a total weight of over 3.5 tonnes are required to carry a transmitter unit, which can be purchased locally. In this case, the toll amount is calculated based on the kilometres driven and the vehicle category.
However, there are also some exceptions: for example, you can drive on almost the entire D0 motorway, as well as parts of the D1 and D5, without paying a toll. Rural roads in the Czech Republic are also exempt from the requirement to purchase a vignette. You can drive your vehicle here without any concerns. You can recognise the motorway sections you may drive on free of charge by the motorway sign with a crossed-out vignette.
There is an exemption for vehicles powered by electricity or hydrogen. Plug-in hybrids also do not need to purchase vignettes. However, to do so, you need to indicate this fact on a specially set-up page. In this case, a corresponding note is entered in the database and you can use the motorways and expressways as normal.
General traffic regulations in the Czech Republic
Basically, there are many rules that also apply in Germany. Nevertheless, there are also some differences and new rules. So that you can get an overview of the general traffic regulations in advance, here is a summary of the most important basic rules.
Speed limits
Within built-up areas: 50 km/h
Outside built-up areas: 90 km/h
Motorways: 130 km/h
In 2024, the maximum permitted speed on particularly well-developed motorways was raised to 150 km/h. However, these sections are still an exception and you should pay attention to the signage.
You should also observe the other speed limits, as there are narrow streets, for example within built-up areas, especially in touristy areas such as Prague, and a high number of pedestrians may be present. On rural roads outside built-up areas, there are some poorly maintained roads and many bends that you cannot see well.
Right of way
Trams have the right of way.
Blood alcohol limit
The zero-tolerance limit for alcohol at the wheel applies. This regulation is one of the strictest in Europe and is intended to ensure that drivers are always able to control their vehicle safely.
In the Czech Republic, there is no tolerance for alcohol in the blood when driving a vehicle, and even the slightest violation can have serious legal consequences. The penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol are high and include not only fines, but also immediate revocation of the driving licence and, in serious cases, even imprisonment. This strict regulation reflects the Czech Republic's efforts to minimise the number of alcohol-related accidents and make the roads safer.
Obligation to use lights
The year-round obligation to use lights applies. This regulation requires you to switch on your dipped headlights even during the day, regardless of whether you are travelling within or outside built-up areas. This regulation was introduced to improve the visibility of vehicles, especially in changeable weather conditions, which are common in the Czech Republic. Czech roads are often surrounded by forests or hilly landscapes, where light conditions can change quickly.
Use of mobile phones
Making phone calls is only permitted if a hands-free device is used. This regulation is intended to prevent the driver from being distracted by holding a phone to their ear or tapping on the screen.
Conduct in the event of an accident
In the event of an accident, strict regulations regarding accident reporting apply in the Czech Republic. If you are involved in an accident, you must secure the accident site immediately, notify the police and, if necessary, administer first aid if you are familiar with the basics of first aid. This applies in particular to accidents involving personal injury or serious property damage. The police will document the accident and prepare a report, which is necessary for further processing by the insurance company.
Radar warning devices
The use of ready-to-use speed camera or radar warning devices is prohibited in the Czech Republic, just as it is in Germany.
Tyres
The winter tyre obligation is another important regulation that applies in the Czech Republic from November to March. This obligation comes into effect as soon as winter conditions prevail, i.e. when there is snow, ice or slush on the road. The winter tyre obligation applies not only to heavy vehicles or trucks, but to all vehicles, regardless of size and type.
Fines
The Road Traffic Act has been in force since 1 January 2024, under which fines are up to five times higher.
20 km/h over the limit within built-up areas: up to 400 euros (previously up to 100 euros)
30 km/h over the limit outside built-up areas: up to 400 euros (previously up to 100 euros)
40 km/h over the limit within built-up areas: up to 1,000 euros (previously up to 200 euros)
50 km/h over the limit outside built-up areas: up to 1,000 euros (previously up to 200 euros)
Running a red light: up to 1,000 euros (previously up to 200 euros)
Drink driving: up to 1,000 euros (previously up to 800 euros)
Refusing an alcohol test: up to 3,000 euros (up to 2,000 euros)
The amounts have been converted into euros and rounded.
Other penalties besides fines
The Czech Republic has a strict points system similar to that in Germany. If you violate traffic regulations, points are recorded on your account, which can lead to revocation of your driving licence in the event of repeated violations. However, these are not transferred to your points account in Germany.
Driving under the influence of alcohol: possible immediate confiscation of the driving licence and, in extreme cases, imprisonment
Refuelling and charging
Most petrol stations are open Monday to Friday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Outside these hours, you can refuel yourself at machines without needing an open petrol station with staff to pay. You will find petrol stations almost everywhere. In rural areas, you may need to drive a little further to find a petrol station.
You are allowed to carry up to 10 litres in a canister.
You can charge your car in the centre of the country without any problems, as there are many charging stations around the main traffic routes and in larger cities. There are significantly fewer in rural areas, so you should check availability beforehand. However, the road network is being continuously expanded.
Condition of the roads
The road network is predominantly modern and well developed. You can also drive on the motorways without any problems.
Nevertheless, especially in rural areas, there are some routes whose mixed conditions can make your trip a challenge. It is therefore best to find out in advance which roads you need to take if you are planning a trip to more remote locations.
Once you have read our guide, you will know all about the differences and can set off on your journey with complete peace of mind.
The Czech Republic is a fascinating country with a rich history and breathtaking landscapes that is ideal to explore by car. However, in order to make your trip safe and stress-free, it is very important to know and comply with the country's traffic regulations.
The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey
We wish you a good trip to the Czech Republic and are happy to help with any questions about toll regulations. Feel free to use our route planner to plan your trip optimally and have suitable toll products displayed for you. If you have any further questions about your trip or our digital vignette, please contact us by email.
