Rules of the road in the Czech Republic are very similar to those in other European countries. On 1. 1. 2008 new stricter rules came into force intended to make Czech roads much safer. EU and international driving licences are both recognised in the Czech Republic.
The main rules
- Drive on the right.
- Seatbelts must be used.
- Headlights must be switched on all day, year round.
- Children (smaller than 150 cm and weighing less than 36 kg) must be placed in a child seat at all times.
- Cyclist younger than 18 must wear a helmet.
Speed limits
In the Czech Republic different speed limits apply in different environments (built-up areas, roads outside built-up areas and motorways). Unless stated otherwise, the following speed limits apply in these areas:
- 130 kmph on the motorway
- 50 kmph in built up areas
- 90 kmph outside built-up areas
Fines
Fines for going slightly over the speed limit (up to 20 kmph over the limit in built-up areas and 30 kmph outside of built-up areas) range from 500 Kč to 2000 Kč (20-70 euros).
Police checks
When stopped by the police, drivers must show their passport or other ID (citizens of EU member countries), driver’s licence (EU or international) and the vehicle documents (MOT certificate, third party insurance certificate and green card insurance document).
Alcohol and drugs
The Czech Republic operates a zero tolerance approach to the use of alcohol and other drugs prior to driving a motor vehicle. If any substance is found in a driver’s blood, this can lead to up to 3 years in jail and a fine of 25-50 000 Kč (900-1800 euros). The same fine applies if a driver refuses to undergo a breathalyser or blood test.
Using a mobile telephone behind the wheel
In the Czech Republic drivers are prohibited to hold a mobile phone in their hands while driving or to wedge the phone between ear and shoulder. You can be fined (50-90 euros) for breaking this rule. Drivers can only make and receive telephone calls using hands-free equipment.
Pedestrians
Pedestrians have right of way on crossings and drivers must stop and let them cross.
Age requirements for drivers in the Czech Republic
- To ride a motorcycle up to 50 cm3 - 15 years of age
- To sit in the front passenger seat - 15 years of age and a height of at least 150 cm
- To drive a car - 18 years of age
Motorways and tolls
There are 878 km of motorways and other main roads in the Czech Republic. If you wish to travel along motorways in your own car, you’ll need to have a special vignette stuck to the front windscreen. These can be purchased at petrol stations and post offices.
Vignettes for vehicles up to 3.5 tons
- 1 week – 220 Kč
- 1 month – 330 Kč
- 1 year – 1000 Kč
Vignettes for vehicles from 3.5 to 12 tons
- 1 week – 750 Kč
- 1 month – 2200 Kč
- 1 year – 8000 Kč
Tolls
Since 1. 1. 2007 vehicles weighing more than 12 tons must be equipped with a special device which counts the number of kilometres they travel on the motorway. Prices range from 2.30 to 4.20 Kč/km (0,80-1,50 euros). From 1. 7. 2007 these vehicles will also incur a charge for using A roads. You will find more information on this on the Ministry of Transport website (www.mdcr.cz).
Accidents
Should you have an accident and the damaged caused reaches 50 000 Kč (1800 euros), or someone is injured, the police must be called to the scene (call 158). They will then draw up a report on the incident. Accidents must also be reported to the relevant insurance companies. In other cases, those involved in the accident are free to come to their own arrangements.
Roadside assistance
Insurance companies offer roadside assistance across Europe, and the number to call can usually be found on the policy itself. Therefore it is recommended that motorists seek assistance from the service associated with the insurance company with which the car or driver is insured.
