With thousands of kilometres of tarmac to tackle, every corner of the country is within reach and driving is an enjoyable way to get the best from your holiday here. Be aware that the locals do not always indicate, therefore be vigilant when driving both in towns and on motorways.
Read our Czech Republic travel guide. You may also like to view information about destinations in Czech Republic.
Tips for driving in the Czech Republic
Which side of the road do they drive on?
Drive on the right, overtake on the left. Unless otherwise indicated, vehicles coming from the right have priority at junctions.
Seat belts
If fitted, seat belts must be worn at all times by all occupants of the vehicle.
Driving with children
Children shorter than 150 cm must use child restraints, both in the front and rear seats. These restraints must meet ECE standard 44/03 or 44/04. If a child is seated in the front in a rear-facing child restraint, the airbag must be de-activated.
Blood alcohol limit
There is zero tolerance policy on drink driving in the Czech Republic. No amount of alcohol found to be in the blood is legal. Hefty fines will be imposed and loss of license for up to two years.
Can I use a mobile?
It’s illegal to use a mobile unless you have a hands-free kit.
Reflective vests, triangles and other essentials
A reflective vest must be kept in the vehicle at all times and must be accessible from within the cabin. It is compulsory to carry a warning triangle (must conform to EC Regulation 27), first aid kit, and winter weather equipment. A set of replacement bulbs and fuses should also be kept in the car.
Do I need winter tyres or snow chains?
Winter tyres are compulsory in certain areas between November 1st and March 31st. A road sign depicting a car and snowflake indicates the start of compulsory winter tyre zones.
Snow chains may be used instead of winter tyres but only where the road is completely covered.
Parking
Cars must be parked on the right hand side of the road, parallel with the kerb. In one way streets, parking is also allowed on the left.
On the spot fines
The Czech police can issue on the spot fines and demand immediate payment for fines up to 5,000CZK. Try and keep some cash on you in case of an on the spot fine. The police can also confiscate your driving licence on the spot for serious offences.
Horns and headlights
It is compulsory to drive with dipped headlights during the day throughout the year. You may be fined up to 2,000 CZK if you are caught without them on. Do not use your car horn in built up areas unless it is absolutely essential. Use of your horn is prohibited between 20:00 and 06:00 and at all times when driving in Prague.
Do I need a vignette to drive on the motorway?
All vehicles using Czech motorways must display a motorway tax sticker (vignette). The sticker, valid for 10 days, a month, or a year, is available at border posts, from post offices, petrol stations, and UAMK branch offices. An on the spot fine of 5,000 CZK can be imposed for non-display.
Trams
Be wary of trams and tram lines when driving in towns and cities. Do not pass trams on the inside as this is where passengers embark and exit the carriage.
Pedestrian right of way
Pedestrians should be given priority by both directions of traffic when crossing the road when feasible depending upon direction and speed of the vehicle.
What should I do if I breakdown?
If you breakdown, you must put on a reflective jacket and place the reflective triangle 100m behind the vehicle to warn other drivers. Call the supplier who will be able to advise you further. It is recommended you contact ourselves at the same time to ensure you follow the correct procedure.
What should I do if I have an accident?
If you’re in an accident, you MUST notify the Police and the supplier and get an accident report for insurance purposes. Failure to do so may result in you footing the whole bill. It is also recommended to contact us at the same time to ensure you follow the correct procedure.
Driving distances
Prague to Brno – 204km (2hrs)
Prague to Ostrava – 372km (3hrs 40mins)
Brno to Ostrava – 171km (1hr 50mins)
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