CzechiaCzechia
Traffic rules
Czechia
1. Czechia
The Czech Republic, also known as Czechia, is a landlocked country in Central Europe, bordered by Germany, Poland, Slovakia and Austria. Traffic drives on the right. Drivers using the motorway network should be aware that passenger cars and other four-wheeled vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes generally need an electronic vignette on tolled motorway sections. Winter conditions are also an important part of driving in Czechia, particularly away from the main cities and in higher areas.
Czech is the main language used on traffic signs and is written in the Latin alphabet with distinctive diacritics such as č, š, ř and ž. In some municipalities in the northeast, especially where there is a significant Polish minority, drivers may also encounter bilingual Czech-Polish place-name signs. Foreign drivers should also pay particular attention to railway crossings, trams and local speed restrictions, as Czech traffic law contains specific rules for each.
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Which number can you call in an emergency in the Czech Republic?
Call 112 for urgent emergency assistance. Give the operator your location and explain what happened.
🔗 hzscr.gov.cz • Czech Fire Rescue Service, emergency call numbers
What is the legal alcohol limit for drivers in the Czech Republic?
The Czech Republic applies zero tolerance for alcohol when driving. Drivers should have no alcohol in their system when they drive.
🔗 europa.eu • Your Europe / national authorities, Czechia road rules, Alcohol limits
What speed limits apply to passenger cars in the Czech Republic?
Built-up areas: The general maximum speed is 50 km/h, unless signs indicate another limit. On a motorway or road for motor vehicles passing through a built-up area, the general maximum is 80 km/h.
Outside built-up areas: For cars, the general maximum speed on ordinary roads outside built-up areas is 90 km/h, unless signs indicate another limit.
Roads for motor vehicles: Outside built-up areas, the general maximum speed on a road designated for motor vehicles is 110 km/h, unless signs indicate another limit.
Motorways: The general maximum motorway speed is 130 km/h. However, a pilot scheme on the D3 motorway between approximately kilometres 84 and 131 can allow a maximum of 150 km/h when variable traffic signs display that limit. The pilot is currently scheduled to continue until the end of 2026.
🔗 europa.eu • Your Europe / national authorities, Czechia road rules, Speed limits for passenger cars; 🔗 md.gov.cz • Czech Ministry of Transport, D3 motorway speed pilot, Signed D3 pilot, 150 km/h
Can you use a mobile phone while driving in the Czech Republic?
A driver may not hold a mobile phone or other communication or recording device in the hand while driving. Hands-free use is permitted, although drivers must remain fully attentive to the road.
🔗 europa.eu • Your Europe / national authorities, Czechia road rules, Mobile telephone
When are winter tyres mandatory in the Czech Republic?
Between 1 November and 31 March, winter tyres must be used when the road is covered with snow, ice or frost, or when such conditions can reasonably be expected during the journey. Additional requirements can apply on roads marked with a winter-equipment sign.
🔗 besip.gov.cz • Czech Ministry of Transport BESIP, winter-tyre guidance, 18 October 2026
What safety equipment should you carry in a car in the Czech Republic?
Czech Police list a first-aid kit, warning triangle and reflective vest as mandatory car equipment. Carry the appropriate spare-wheel or tyre-repair equipment; exceptions include run-flat tyres, tyres repairable without removal, or agreed roadside assistance covering the whole Czech Republic. Police recommend a vest for every occupant.
Can a visitor use a driving licence issued in another EU country in the Czech Republic?
Yes. A valid, full EU driving licence is recognised for the vehicle categories it covers. You must meet the applicable minimum age. A learner licence or a temporary replacement certificate does not have the same automatic recognition.
Do passenger cars need a motorway vignette in the Czech Republic?
Normally, yes. Motor vehicles with four or more wheels and a maximum permissible weight up to 3.5 tonnes need an electronic vignette for charged motorway sections. Check any exemption and its registration requirements before travelling. Enter the correct registration number and validity dates.
🔗 portal.gov.cz • Czech Government, electronic motorway vignette
