Cars & Transportation Czech Republic

Railway Transport

The Czech Republic has one of the densest railway networks in the world, with a total length of about 9,435 km. Trains provide reliable connections between cities and regions of the country. The main operator of passenger transport is the company České dráhy (Czech Railways). 

Urban Transport

Trams: Tram networks operate in major cities such as Prague, Brno, Ostrava, and Plzeň. The Prague tram system is one of the largest in the world, with route lengths of about 144 km. 

Metro: The metro operates in Prague and consists of three lines (A, B, and C) with a total length of about 65 km and 61 stations. The metro is integrated with other types of transport. 

Buses: Bus routes complement tram and metro lines, providing access to areas not covered by rail transport. There are about 300 bus lines in Prague, including daytime and nighttime routes.

Trolleybuses: Trolleybus systems operate in cities such as Brno, Plzeň, Ostrava, and others, providing an environmentally friendly mode of transport.

Intercity Buses

In addition to railway links, intercity buses play an important role in the Czech Republic's transport system, connecting cities and regions not served by railway lines. Major bus operators offer regular services throughout the country.

Water Transport

Although the Czech Republic is landlocked, internal waterways such as the Vltava River are used for passenger transport, especially for tourist purposes. River ferries operate in Prague, integrated into the public transport system.

Air Transport

The main international airport is Vaclav Havel Airport in Prague, serving flights worldwide. There are also regional airports in Brno, Ostrava, Karlovy Vary, and other cities, providing domestic and international flights.

Thanks to the diversity and integration of various types of transport, getting around the Czech Republic is convenient and efficient for both locals and visitors.

Ways to Purchase Tickets

 

Paper Tickets

 Ticket Machines: Located at metro stations, tram and bus stops. Machines support multiple languages and accept both cash and bank cards. 

 Kiosks and Newsstands: Many kiosks and newspaper shops sell public transport tickets.

 

Electronic Tickets

 Mobile App PID Lítačka: Allows users to purchase and store tickets on their smartphone. Payment is made by bank card, and the ticket is activated just before the trip. 

 SMS Tickets: Available for users with Czech SIM cards. To purchase a ticket, you need to send the appropriate message to the specified number, after which an electronic ticket is sent in response. 

 

Purchase from the Driver

 In some buses and trams, it is possible to buy a ticket directly from the driver. However, it should be noted that such tickets may be more expensive, and payment is often accepted only in cash.

 

Types of Tickets

 

Short-Term Tickets

  - 30-minute ticket: Valid for 30 minutes from validation.

  - 90-minute ticket: Valid for 90 minutes from validation.

  - 24-hour ticket: Provides unlimited travel for 24 hours.

  - 72-hour ticket: Provides unlimited travel for 72 hours.

 

Long-Term Passes

  - Monthly Pass: Valid for 30 days.

  - Quarterly Pass: Valid for 90 days.

  - Annual Pass: Valid for 365 days.

Long-term passes can be registered on a Lítačka card or electronically via the app. 

 

Ticket Validation

Paper tickets must be validated when entering the vehicle or metro station. This is done using yellow validators located at entrances. Electronic tickets purchased through the app or SMS are activated automatically and do not require additional validation.

 

Fines for Ticketless Travel

Passengers without a valid ticket are subject to a fine. The fine amount can reach up to 1,000 Czech crowns if paid on the spot. It is recommended always to have a valid ticket to avoid unpleasant situations. 

Taxi

 

Official taxis: Licensed taxis in the Czech Republic are usually yellow, have a "Taxi" sign on the roof, and company name, license number, and rates on the doors. Information about the driver and a working taxi meter should be available in the cabin.

 

Booking: It is recommended to book a taxi through official apps or by phone to avoid overpaying. Popular services include AAA Taxi, Modry Andel, and City Taxi.

 

Recommendations

Using apps: Services like Uber and Bolt are also available in the Czech Republic and can be a convenient alternative to traditional taxis.

 

Car sharing

Availability: Car sharing is popular in large cities, especially in Prague. Services offer vehicles for short-term rental, which is convenient for residents and tourists.

 

Popular services

Car4Way: The largest car-sharing service in the Czech Republic with more than 1000 vehicles, including Škoda and VW models. Rental costs start at 5 CZK per minute or about 500 CZK per day.

Anytime: A service offering cars for short-term rental is available in Prague.

 

Recommendations

Registration: To use car-sharing services, you need to register in the chosen service's app and provide the necessary documents.

Parking: Pay attention to the parking zones allowed for car-sharing vehicles to avoid fines.

 

Bicycle and electric scooter rental

 

Bicycles: Services like Nextbike offer bicycle rentals in more than 28 cities in the Czech Republic. Bicycles are equipped with electronic locks, making parking easier.

 

Electric scooters: Companies like Lime provide electric scooter rentals in Prague. To rent, you need to install the app, register, and link a bank card. The cost usually includes a fixed activation fee and per-minute payment.

 

Recommendations

Safety: When using bicycles and scooters, it is recommended to wear a helmet and follow traffic rules.

Parking: Park vehicles in permitted areas to avoid obstructing pedestrians and other road users.

Living in the Czech Republic without a personal car is not only possible but, in many cases, rational. The developed public transport infrastructure and alternative modes of transportation make life without a car comfortable and economical. This is especially relevant for residents of cities and their suburbs, where everything you need is easily accessible.

Benefits of living without a car: no expenses for purchasing, maintaining, fueling, and parking a car; reducing CO₂ emissions and contributing to improving the environmental situation; avoiding traffic jams and issues with finding parking in congested cities.

Possible limitations: in remote areas, public transport may run less frequently, requiring careful planning of trips; for families with young children or people with limited mobility, the absence of personal transport may create some difficulties.

Obtaining a Czech driver's license is an important step for immigrants planning a long stay in the Czech Republic. The process of obtaining a license depends on whether you have a foreign driver's license and your residency status in the country.

 

Exchanging a foreign driver's license for a Czech one

 

For citizens of European Union countries

Right to exchange: EU citizens residing in the Czech Republic have the right to exchange their national driver's licenses for Czech ones. However, this is not mandatory, and they can continue to use their national licenses.

 

For citizens of non-EU countries

Mandatory exchange: Foreigners from non-EU countries are required to exchange their national driver's licenses for Czech ones within 90 days of obtaining a residence permit or a long-term visa. Failing to do so can be considered driving without a license, which may result in a fine of up to 50,000 Czech crowns.

 

Necessary documents for exchange:

- A valid foreign driver's license.

- Valid document confirming identity (passport or ID card).

- Confirmation of residency in the Czech Republic (residence permit, long-term visa).

- In some cases, a medical certificate confirming fitness to drive a vehicle may be required.

 

Exchange Procedure

Application submission: The application for a driver's license exchange is submitted in person at any municipal office with expanded powers (ORP).

Payment of the administrative fee: The fee is 200 Czech crowns.

Waiting for issuance: The production time for the new license is usually 20 days.

 

Obtaining a Czech Driver's License from Scratch

If you do not have a driver's license or exchange is not possible, you need to undergo the standard procedure for obtaining a license in the Czech Republic.

 

Enrollment in a driving school: Training can be conducted in Czech; however, some driving schools offer courses in English.

 

Medical certificate: Before starting the training, a medical certificate confirming fitness to drive a vehicle is required.

 

Theoretical training: The course includes studying traffic rules, safety basics, and first aid.

 

Practical training: Practical driving lessons guided by an instructor.

 

Examinations

Theoretical exam: Testing knowledge of traffic rules.

Practical exam: Assessment of driving skills in real conditions.

 

Obtaining a license: Upon successful passing of the exams, a Czech driver's license is issued.

 

Age restrictions: The minimum age for obtaining a category B (passenger cars) driver's license is 18 years.

 

Language features: Exams are conducted in Czech. However, the presence of a translator is possible, which is especially relevant for those who do not speak Czech.

 

It is recommended to familiarize yourself with the requirements and prepare the necessary documents in advance to ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible.

Owning and operating a personal vehicle in the Czech Republic involves a number of specifics that immigrants need to consider.

 

Purchasing a car

New cars: Buying a new car is done through official dealers. Prices for new cars in the Czech Republic are comparable to other European Union countries.

Used cars: The used car market is developed and offers a wide selection. It is recommended to check the vehicle's history and technical condition when buying.

 

Car registration

Mandatory registration: All cars operated in the Czech Republic must be registered with local authorities. Foreign citizens are required to register their car within 90 days of receiving a residence permit or long-term visa.

 

Technical inspection

New cars undergo their first technical inspection four years after initial registration, and then every two years.

 

Insurance

Mandatory insurance: All car owners must have a mandatory third-party liability insurance policy.

Additional insurance: CASCO is voluntary and covers damage to one's own car.

 

Traffic rules

 

Speed limits

In populated areas: 50 km/h.

Outside populated areas: 90 km/h.

On highways: 130 km/h.

 

Use of headlights: Low beam headlights must be on all day throughout the year.

Seat belts: Mandatory for all passengers.

Permissible blood alcohol level: The Czech Republic has zero tolerance for alcohol at the wheel.

 

Toll roads

Vignettes: Electronic vignettes must be purchased for using highways. Costs depend on the duration (10 days, month, year).

Sales points: Vignettes can be purchased online, at gas stations, and post offices.

 

Parking

Parking zones: Cities have different parking zones marked by colors (blue, orange, green), each with its own rules and rates.

Payment: Payment for parking can be made via parking meters, mobile apps, or SMS.

 

Owning and operating a car in the Czech Republic requires compliance with local laws and regulations. It is recommended to familiarize yourself with them carefully and fulfill all obligations in a timely manner to avoid fines and ensure road safety.

In the Czech Republic, strict measures are imposed for traffic violations, including monetary fines, penalty points, and, in some cases, the suspension of a driver's license.

 

Monetary Fines

 

The size of the fine depends on the nature and severity of the violation:

Speeding

In populated areas: speeding up to 20 km/h over the limit — a fine of up to 1,000 Czech crowns; speeding by 20–40 km/h — up to 2,500 crowns; over 40 km/h — up to 5,000 crowns.

Outside populated areas: speeding up to 30 km/h — up to 1,000 crowns; by 30–50 km/h — up to 2,500 crowns; over 50 km/h — up to 5,000 crowns.

 

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Blood alcohol content up to 0.3‰ — fine from 2,500 to 20,000 crowns and license suspension for 6 months.

Above 0.3‰ — fine from 25,000 to 50,000 crowns and license suspension for 1–2 years.

 

Using a mobile phone while driving: fine of up to 1,000 crowns.

 

Not wearing a seatbelt: fine of up to 2,000 crowns.

 

Penalty Points

 

The Czech Republic uses a points-based penalty system. Drivers receive penalty points (from 2 to 7) for certain violations. Accumulating 12 points results in a 1-year license suspension.

 

Examples of Point Accumulation

Driving under the influence: 7 points.

Speeding by 20–30 km/h in a town: 3 points.

Using a phone while driving: 2 points.

 

Suspension of Driving License

Besides accumulating 12 points, a driver may lose their license for serious violations such as:

Refusing a test for alcohol or drugs.

Repeated driving under the influence.

Causing a hazardous situation with severe consequences.

 

Paying Fines

 

Fines can be paid:

On the spot (if the police officer has a mobile terminal).

At a police station or municipality office.

Via bank transfer.

 

In the Czech Republic, drivers are informed about traffic violations in the following ways:

 

At the Scene of the Violation

If a violation is detected by a police patrol:

The police can stop the vehicle and inform the driver of the violation. The officer explains the violation, providing relevant evidence (e.g., radar or breathalyzer data).

On-site fine: The driver can pay the fine immediately if the officer has a mobile terminal. If the fine is not paid on the spot, the driver receives a receipt to pay within a set period.

 

Automatic Detection System

If the violation is recorded by cameras or other automated systems (e.g., speeding or running a red light):

Postal Notification: An official letter is sent to the vehicle owner containing:

  - Details of the violation (time, place, type of violation).

  - Photo or video of the violation (if required).

  - Fine amount and payment instructions.

Notification period: Usually, the notification is sent within a few weeks of the violation.

 

Electronic Points System

If the violation results in penalty points, the driver may be notified:

 Via a letter from the transport department: The message contains information about the points accrued and their impact on driving privileges.

 Inquiry at the transport department: Drivers can check their points in person or through online platforms.

 

During Vehicle Inspection

If the driver does not pay fines or breaks rules, the information may come to light during the next vehicle inspection, which could lead to the refusal of vehicle registration renewal.

 

Court Proceedings

In cases of serious violations (e.g., driving under the influence), the driver may be summoned to court, where they will be informed of the consequences, such as license suspension or a larger fine.

 

Driver Recommendations

Regularly check the mail: In the Czech Republic, violation notifications are often sent in paper form.

Monitor penalty points: This can be done through the transport department.

Adhere to the rules: Most violations are recorded by automated systems, eliminating the possibility of avoiding them.

Vehicle Registration

 

Initial registration of a new car

Place of registration: Registration is carried out at the local vehicle registry office at the owner's place of residence.

 

Required documents:

  - Purchase agreement or invoice.

  - Certificate of conformity from the manufacturer.

  - Identification document of the owner (passport or ID card).

  - Proof of payment of the environmental fee (if applicable).

 

Registration of a used car

Additional steps:

  Conduct registration inspection at the technical inspection station to confirm the vehicle data matches the documents. 

  Provide a valid third-party liability insurance policy.

Time limits: Registration must be completed within 10 working days from the purchase of the car.

 

Technical Inspection

 

Frequency

New cars: First inspection 4 years after the initial registration, then every 2 years.

Used cars: Every 2 years.

 

Inspection procedure

Location: Certified technical inspection stations accredited by the Ministry of Transport of the Czech Republic. 

 

Inspected parameters: braking system; steering system; lighting devices; tire condition; emissions of harmful substances.

 

Documents required for inspection:

  - Vehicle technical passport.

  - Vehicle registration certificate.

  - Valid third-party liability insurance policy.

 

Inspection results:

Successful inspection: A certificate is issued confirming the vehicle's compliance with requirements, and a sticker is placed on the license plate indicating the date of the next inspection.

Unsuccessful inspection: The owner receives a list of identified deficiencies and must correct them within a specified period, after which a repeat inspection is required.

Temporary use of foreign cars

 

Duration of stay: Foreign citizens can use their cars with foreign registration in the territory of the Czech Republic without mandatory re-registration for a certain period. For citizens of the European Union, this period is up to 6 months in a calendar year. For citizens of third countries, the periods may vary depending on the purpose of stay and visa regime.

 

Mandatory conditions

 

Insurance: The car must be insured with a valid policy recognized in the Czech Republic. Usually, this is an international insurance card "Green Card".

Technical condition: The vehicle must comply with the technical and environmental standards in effect in the Czech Republic.

Documents: The driver must have documents for the car, a driver's license, an insurance policy, and, if necessary, documents confirming the legality of their stay in the country.

 

Mandatory registration of foreign cars

 

As of January 1, 2024, mandatory registration of foreign cars used in the country for more than 185 days per year has been introduced in the Czech Republic. This rule aims to control vehicles that are extensively used in the Czech Republic and ensure their compliance with local standards.

 

Registration procedure

Contact the local vehicle registry office at your place of residence.

Required documents:

   - Valid vehicle technical passport.

   - Proof of ownership (purchase agreement or another document).

   - Valid insurance policy recognized in the Czech Republic.

   - Confirmation of passing the technical inspection in the Czech Republic.

 

Technical inspection: The car must pass a technical inspection for compliance with Czech safety and environmental standards.

 

Payment of fees: Pay the administrative fees for registration and, if necessary, the environmental tax.

 

Receiving registration numbers: After successful registration, you will be issued Czech registration numbers and a registration certificate.

 

Exceptions: Some categories of vehicles are exempt from mandatory registration, for example, cars used for international transport, or vehicles temporarily in the Czech Republic for tourist trips.

 

Responsibility for non-compliance with rules

Violation of the requirements for registration and use of foreign cars may result in administrative liability, including fines and a ban on the operation of the vehicle in the Czech Republic.

 

It is recommended to familiarize yourself with the current requirements in advance and, if necessary, consult with local authorities or legal specialists to ensure compliance with all mandatory procedures and avoid possible sanctions.

In recent years, the Czech Republic has been actively developing infrastructure for electric vehicles, aiming to create favorable conditions for owners of environmentally friendly transport.

Charging Stations

As of the end of 2023, there are approximately 2,313 charging stations with 4,313 charging points operating in the Czech Republic, placing the country 13th in the European Union in this indicator.

Types of Charging Stations

Slow Charging Stations (AC): Designed to charge electric vehicles over several hours, often installed in residential areas and shopping mall parking lots.

Fast and Ultra-Fast Charging Stations (DC): Provide quick charging within 30–60 minutes, located along highways and near major transportation hubs. The share of such stations in the Czech Republic is about 60%, which is significantly higher than the average across Europe (10%).

Main Operators

ČEZ Group: The largest operator of charging stations in the Czech Republic, actively expanding its network and implementing ultra-fast charging devices.

E.ON and PRE: These companies also significantly contribute to the development of charging infrastructure, offering various solutions for private and corporate clients.

Service Centers

With the growth in the number of electric vehicles, the number of specialized service centers offering services for diagnostics, repair, and maintenance of electric vehicles is also increasing. Many official dealers, such as Škoda, Volkswagen, and others, equip their service centers with the necessary equipment and train personnel to work with electric vehicles.

The Czech Republic demonstrates significant progress in the development of infrastructure for electric vehicles, providing owners with convenient access to charging stations and quality service maintenance.