Traffic rules Czech Republic

Czechia, 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 destination for motorists.

Whether you want to wander the historic old towns , drive through the picturesque wine regions in the south, or experience the rugged beauty of the Ore Mountains : to travel through the country safely and without legal problems, it is important to know and understand the traffic rules that apply there.

This comprehensive guide provides you with in-depth information on all the relevant differences from the traffic rules in Germany.

The Most Important Facts

• The blood alcohol limit is 0.0 - in contrast to Germany's 0.5.

• The speed limit on some well-developed motorway sections was raised to 150 km/h in early 2024.

• In 2024, fines were increased by up to five times.

What You Need to Bring

So that you don't run into trouble due to missing documents or not knowing the requirements for what to carry, we have summarised 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 motor third-party liability insurance, but we recommend bringing the IVK (International Insurance Card). This shows that your car has motor third-party liability insurance. You can apply for the card free of charge from your car insurance provider. It is also advisable to check with your car insurer before setting off to make sure you have adequate insurance cover.

In addition, the national identification mark must either be affixed to the car or included in the Euro number plate.

Toll

As in many other countries, the collection of toll fees in Czechia serves to finance infrastructure measures. The fees collected are used to fund both the maintenance and the expansion and modernisation of the road network. This helps to ensure the quality and safety of the road network in the long term while also supporting economic and regional development. In some cases, the fee is also used to manage traffic, for example through higher charges during peak times to avoid traffic jams. Toll regulations, systems and rates can vary depending on the country, region and type of road, and different provisions often apply to different vehicle classes and weights.

Since 2021, a digital vignette has been required in Czechia for motorways and expressways. The sticker vignette, which became known under the name "Klebe Pickerl," no longer needs to be stuck to the car and was abolished as part of this reform. 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 Czechia applies to all motor vehicles travelling on motorways and expressways. The obligation to pay tolls applies to both domestic and foreign vehicles, provided they have at least 4 wheels, the maximum permissible weight does not exceed 3.5 tonnes, and a motorway or expressway is being used. Trailers and motorcycles are not subject to tolls. Vehicles with a total weight of over 3.5 tonnes are required to carry a transmitter device, which can be purchased locally. In this case, the toll amount is calculated based on the kilometres driven and the vehicle category.

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. Country roads in the Czech Republic are also exempt from the vignette requirement. Here you can drive your vehicle without any concerns. You can recognise the motorway sections that you may use free of charge by the motorway sign with a crossed-out vignette.

There is an exemption for vehicles that run on electricity or hydrogen. Plug-in hybrids also do not need to purchase a vignette. However, to do so, you need to state 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 Rules in Czechia

Basically, there are many rules that also apply in Germany. Nevertheless, there are also some differences and new rules. To help you get an overview of the general traffic rules 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 increased 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, for example, in built-up areas—especially in tourist areas such as Prague—there are narrow streets and a large number of pedestrians may be present. On country roads outside built-up areas, there are some poorly developed 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 while driving applies. This regulation is one of the strictest in Europe and is intended to ensure that drivers are able to safely control their vehicle at all times.

In Czechia, there is no tolerance for alcohol in the blood when driving a vehicle, and even the smallest violation can have serious legal consequences. The penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol are severe and include not only fines but also immediate licence revocation 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.

Lights Requirement

The year-round lights requirement applies. This regulation requires you to switch on your dipped headlights during the day as well, regardless of whether you are driving 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 Czechia. 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 typing on the screen.

Conduct in the Event of an Accident

In the event of an accident, strict regulations regarding accident reporting apply in Czechia. If you are involved in an accident, you must secure the accident site immediately, notify the police and, if necessary, provide first aid if you know the basics of first aid. This applies especially in the case of accidents involving personal injury or significant property damage. The police will record the accident and prepare a report, which is necessary for further processing by the insurance company.

Radar Detectors

The use of ready-to-use speed camera or radar detectors is prohibited in Czechia, just as it is in Germany.

Tyres

The winter tyre requirement is another important regulation that applies in Czechia from November to March. This requirement comes into effect as soon as winter conditions prevail, i.e. when there is snow, ice or slush on the road. The winter tyre requirement does not only apply to heavy vehicles or lorries, but to all vehicles, regardless of size and type.

Fines

Since 1 January 2024, the Road Traffic Act has been in force, under which fines can be up to five times higher.

• 20 km/h too fast within built-up areas: up to 400 euros (previously up to 100 euros)

• 30 km/h too fast outside built-up areas: up to 400 euros (previously up to 100 euros)

• 40 km/h too fast within built-up areas: up to 1,000 euros (previously up to 200 euros)

• 50 km/h too fast 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

• Czechia has a strict points system, similar to the one in Germany. If you break the traffic rules, points are added to your account, which can lead to the revocation of your driving licence in the case of repeated offences. 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 on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Outside these hours, you can refuel yourself at automated machines, without needing an open, staffed petrol station to pay. You can find petrol stations almost everywhere. In rural areas, you may need to drive a bit further to find a petrol station.

You may carry up to 10 litres in a canister.

You can charge your car without any problems in the centre of the country, as there are many charging stations around the main traffic routes and in larger cities. In rural areas, there are significantly fewer, and you should check availability in advance. However, the road network is continuously being expanded.

Condition of the Roads

The road network is mostly 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. Therefore, it is best to find out in advance which roads you will need to take if you are planning a trip to more remote locations.

Once you have read through our guide, you will know all the differences and can set off on your journey completely relaxed.

Czechia is a fascinating country with a rich history and breathtaking landscapes, which can be explored ideally by car. However, to make your trip safe and stress-free, it is very important to know and comply with the country's traffic rules.

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 regarding 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.