Complete guide 2026Updated April 2026Czech Driving Licence 2026 The Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about getting your driving licence in Czechia — theory test format (25 questions, 43/50 points to pass), autoškola costs (CZK 15,000-25,000), zero BAC tolerance, 12-point system, speed limits, STK vehicle inspections, and the mandatory dálniční známka motorway vignette.
Table of Contents
Theory Test
25 multiple-choice questions from an official question bank, completed in 30 minutes.
Questions carry different point values (1, 2, or 4 points) for a total of 50 points — you must score at least 43/50 points (86%) to pass. Computer-based test (e-test) administered at municipal offices (obecní úřad) with driving test authority. Questions cover traffic signs, right-of-way, and traffic laws.
Total Cost
Driving school (autoškola) fees range from CZK 15,000 to 25,000 (~EUR 600-1,000) for category B, including theory and practical lessons.
Exam fee is CZK 700. Medical certificate costs CZK 500-1,000. Total cost is among the most affordable in the EU.
Road Deaths
455 fatalities in 2023, a significant decline from over 1,300 in 2000.
The death rate is approximately 4.2 per 100,000 population — below the EU average (~4.4). Speeding and drunk driving remain the top causes despite zero BAC.
Zero BAC
Absolute zero tolerance (0.00% BAC) for ALL drivers — one of the strictest policies in Europe.
Any detectable alcohol results in an on-the-spot fine of CZK 7,000-25,000 and potential licence suspension. BAC above 0.10% is a criminal offence with up to 3 years imprisonment.
12-Point System
Czech additive point system: drivers start at 0 points and accumulate points for violations (2, 4, or 6 points per offence since the January 2024 reform).
Reaching 12 points results in automatic licence revocation for 1 year. Points expire 12 months after each individual violation if no new points are added.
Global Context
Czechia's road death rate (~4.2/100K) is below the EU average (~4.4/100K).
Zero BAC is shared with Hungary, Slovakia, and Romania. Licence cost (~EUR 600-1,000) is mid-range for Central Europe. The dálniční známka (motorway vignette) is now electronic since 2021.
Czechia Road Safety: 3-Year Trend (2021–2023)
Czechia has made significant progress in road safety over the past two decades, reducing fatalities from over 1,300 in 2000 to 455 in 2023. Progress has accelerated in recent years, though speeding and alcohol-related crashes remain persistent challenges despite the zero BAC policy.
Year-over-year changes
Deaths per 100,000 Population
Poland5.9- Czechia4.2
Slovakia4.5
Austria3.6
Germany2.7
Source: ETSC PIN Report, Czech Police statistics, WHO Global Status Report on Road Safety. Per-capita rates are estimates and may vary by methodology.
Czech Theory Test Format
Computer-based theory test (e-test) administered at municipal offices with driving test authority across Czechia
The Czech driving theory test (zkouška z teorie) for category B consists of 25 multiple-choice questions to be completed within 30 minutes. Questions carry different point values (1, 2, or 4 points) for a maximum of 50 points — you must score at least 43 out of 50 points (86%) to pass. The test is computer-based (e-test) and administered at municipal offices (obecní úřad) with extended authority (obec s rozšířenou působností). Questions are drawn from an official question bank covering traffic signs, right-of-way rules, traffic laws (silniční zákon), first aid basics, and vehicle technical requirements. The test is available in Czech only. Candidates who fail may retake the test after a minimum waiting period.
Questions
Duration
Pass Mark
Test Fee
What the Theory Test Covers
- Traffic signs, signals & road markings
- Right-of-way rules at intersections
- Speed limits by road type
- Prohibited actions & driving violations
- Pedestrian & cyclist safety rules
- Vehicle inspection (STK) requirements
- Mandatory equipment (vest, triangle, first-aid kit)
- Insurance & registration documents
- Emergency procedures & first aid basics
- Environmental zones & emissions
- Traffic situation analysis
- Penalty amounts & point system
- Alcohol & drug driving laws (zero BAC)
- Motorway rules & dálniční známka
- Winter tyre requirements
How to Get Your Czech Driving Licence
From autoškola to řidičský průkaz — the complete process
- 1
Get a Medical Certificate
Visit your registered general practitioner (praktický lékař) for a driving fitness check
Includes vision test and general health assessment. Valid for new applicants. Cost: CZK 500-1,000. Must be done before starting autoškola.
- 2
Enrol at a Driving School (Autoškola)
Register at a licensed autoškola for your chosen category
Category B requires minimum 11 theory lessons + 34 practical driving lessons (each 45 minutes). Total course typically 2-4 months. Cost: CZK 15,000-25,000.
- 3
Complete Training Course
Attend all required theory and practical driving sessions
Theory covers traffic laws, signs, first aid, and vehicle maintenance. Practical includes driving in traffic, special maneuvers, and highway driving.
- 4
Pass the Theory Test
Take the computer-based theory exam (e-test) at the municipal office
25 questions worth 1-4 points each (50 points total), 30 minutes, must score 43/50 points (86%). Test is in Czech only. Fee: CZK 700.
- 5
Pass the Practical Test
Demonstrate driving competence with an examiner in real traffic
Approximately 30-45 minutes of driving in urban and suburban areas. Includes vehicle checks, parking maneuvers, and traffic navigation. Examiner from the municipal office.
- 6
Receive Your Řidičský Průkaz
Collect your driving licence from the municipal office
EU-format credit card size licence. Processing time: up to 20 working days (express: 5 days for additional fee). Valid for 10 years (category B).
Czech Driving Licence Fees
Typical costs for obtaining a category B driving licence in Czechia
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Driving school (autoškola) — category B | CZK 15,000-25,000 |
| Theory + practical exam fee | CZK 700 |
| Medical certificate | CZK 500-1,000 |
| Licence issuance fee | CZK 200 |
| Express licence issuance (5 days) | CZK 700 |
| First-aid course (included in autoškola) | Included |
| ID photos | CZK 100-200 |
| Total Typical (Category B) | CZK 16,500-27,100 |
Driving school fees vary significantly by region — Prague tends to be the most expensive. Retake fees apply for failed attempts (CZK 100 per retake). Prices as of 2026.
See how ready you are — practice with real exam questions
Try Free QuestionsMinimum age by licence category
- AM — Mopeds up to 50cc / 45 km/hTwo/three-wheeled vehicles15years
- A1 — Motorcycles up to 125cc / 11 kW16years
- A2 — Motorcycles up to 35 kW2 years experience with A1, or direct access at 1818years
- A — Unlimited motorcycles2 years experience with A2, or direct access at 2424years
- B — Cars up to 3,500 kg, max 8+1 seatsMost common category18years
- C — Trucks over 3,500 kgRequires B licence first21years
- D — Buses over 8+1 seatsRequires B licence first24years
- T — Agricultural vehicles (tractors)Available from age 1717years
Licence Validity Periods
| Licence / age | Validity |
|---|---|
| AM / A1 / A2 / A (Motorcycle)Standard EU validity | 10 years |
| B (Car)Standard EU validity | 10 years |
| C / D (Commercial)Medical exam required for renewal | 5 years |
| Drivers aged 65+Reduced validity with medical requirement | 5 years |
12-Point Licence System (Body v kartě řidiče)
- Drivers start at 0 points — points are ADDED for violations
- Since January 2024 reform: violations add 2, 4, or 6 points per offence
- Running red light: 6 points
- Drunk driving (any BAC detected): 6 points
- Reaching 12 points: automatic licence revocation for 1 year, must retake exams
Nováček (New Driver) Rules
- New drivers (less than 2 years with licence) face stricter penalties
- Maximum 6 points in first 2 years — licence revoked at 6 instead of 12
- Must display green dot sticker on vehicle (zelená tečka)
- Zero BAC applies to all drivers, but enforcement is especially strict for new drivers
- Probationary period resets if licence is revoked and reissued
Speed Limits in Czechia
As per Act No. 361/2000 Coll. (Silniční zákon) — all speeds in km/h
Czech speed limits are set by road type. In urban areas (within town signs), the limit is 50 km/h for all vehicles. Outside urban areas, the general limit is 90 km/h. On expressways (silnice pro motorová vozidla), the limit is 110 km/h. On motorways (dálnice), the maximum is 130 km/h. Lower limits apply to vehicles towing trailers and heavy vehicles. Posted speed signs always take precedence over general limits. Speed cameras and police radar checks are common throughout the country.
| Road Type | Cars | Motorcycles | Trucks >3.5t | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Urban areas (v obci) | 50 | 50 | 50 | Within town boundary signs |
| Outside urban areas (mimo obec) | 90 | 90 | 80 | Single/dual carriageway |
| Expressway (silnice pro motorová vozidla) | 110 | 110 | 80 | Dual carriageway |
| Motorway (dálnice) | 130 | 130 | 80 | Requires dálniční známka |
Urban areas (v obci)
Cars: 50Motorcycles: 50Trucks >3.5t: 50Within town boundary signs
Outside urban areas (mimo obec)
Cars: 90Motorcycles: 90Trucks >3.5t: 80Single/dual carriageway
Expressway (silnice pro motorová vozidla)
Cars: 110Motorcycles: 110Trucks >3.5t: 80Dual carriageway
Motorway (dálnice)
Cars: 130Motorcycles: 130Trucks >3.5t: 80Requires dálniční známka
Speed limits are enforced by Czech Police and municipal police using radar and fixed cameras. Vehicles towing trailers: 80 km/h max outside urban areas. Residential zones (zóna 30): 30 km/h. Posted signs always override general limits.
Traffic Fines & Penalties
As per Act No. 361/2000 Coll. and subsequent amendments — fines in Czech koruna (CZK)
Czech traffic fines are administered either as on-the-spot fines (příkaz na místě, formerly bloková pokuta) or through administrative proceedings. On-the-spot fines for minor offences range from CZK 1,500 to CZK 5,000. More serious offences are handled administratively with higher fines. Drunk driving (any BAC) carries a minimum on-the-spot fine of CZK 7,000 and up to CZK 75,000 in administrative proceedings (2024 reform). Speeding fines depend on how far over the limit you are. The 12-point system runs in parallel — since January 2024, violations carry 2, 4, or 6 points toward the 12-point licence revocation threshold.
Up to CZK 2,500Up to CZK 5,000Over CZK 5,000
| Violation | On-the-spot (CZK) | Points | Administrative (CZK) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speeding 5-19 km/h over (urban) | 1,500-2,500 | 2 | Up to 10,000 |
| Speeding 20-39 km/h over | 2,500-5,000 | 4 | Up to 10,000 |
| Speeding 40+ km/h over | 5,000-10,000 | 6 | Up to 25,000 |
| Running red light | 2,500-5,000 | 6 | Up to 10,000 |
| Any detectable BAC (up to 0.3‰) | 7,000-25,000 | 6 | Up to 75,000 |
| BAC above 0.10% (criminal) | Criminal | 6 | Up to 3 yrs prison |
| Using phone while driving | 1,500-2,500 | 4 | Up to 10,000 |
| No seatbelt | 1,500-2,500 | 4 | Up to 4,000 |
| Driving without valid licence | 5,000-10,000 | 6 | Up to 75,000 |
| No dálniční známka on motorway | — | 0 | Up to 100,000 |
| Dangerous overtaking | 2,500-5,000 | 6 | Up to 10,000 |
| Failing to stop after accident | — | 6 | Up to 100,000 |
- 1,500-2,500Up to 10,000
Speeding 5-19 km/h over (urban)
2 - 2,500-5,000Up to 10,000
Speeding 20-39 km/h over
4 - 5,000-10,000Up to 25,000
Speeding 40+ km/h over
6 - 2,500-5,000Up to 10,000
Running red light
6 - 7,000-25,000Up to 75,000
Any detectable BAC (up to 0.3‰)
6 - CriminalUp to 3 yrs prison
BAC above 0.10% (criminal)
6 - 1,500-2,500Up to 10,000
Using phone while driving
4 - 1,500-2,500Up to 4,000
No seatbelt
4 - 5,000-10,000Up to 75,000
Driving without valid licence
6 - —Up to 100,000
No dálniční známka on motorway
0 - 2,500-5,000Up to 10,000
Dangerous overtaking
6 - —Up to 100,000
Failing to stop after accident
6
Fines shown are from Act No. 361/2000 Coll. and amendments. On-the-spot fines (příkaz na místě) are paid immediately; administrative proceedings lead to higher fines. BAC above 0.10% is a criminal offence under the Criminal Code. 1 EUR ≈ CZK 25.
Know These Rules Before Your Theory Test
Traffic fines, speed limits, and the 12-point system are heavily tested in the Czech driving theory exam. Practice with real exam-style questions.
How the road worksMandatory, with a penaltyMakes it easier
Drive on the Right
Czechia uses right-hand traffic.
Overtake on the left. At unmarked intersections, the vehicle from the right has priority (přednost zprava). Trams always have priority.
Zero BAC Tolerance
Absolute zero tolerance for ALL drivers (0.00% BAC).
Any detectable alcohol results in fines from CZK 7,000 (2024 reform), licence suspension, and 6 points. BAC above 0.10% is a criminal offence with up to 3 years imprisonment.
Headlights On 24/7
Dipped headlights (potkávací světla) must be on at all times — day and night, year-round, on all roads.
This applies to all motor vehicles including motorcycles. Penalty for non-compliance: CZK 1,500-2,500.
Dálniční Známka (Motorway Vignette)
Electronic motorway vignette required for all vehicles up to 3.5t on dálnice and selected expressways.
Available for 1 day (CZK 230), 10 days (CZK 300), 30 days (CZK 480), or 1 year (CZK 2,570) — 2026 prices. Purchase online or at petrol stations. No physical sticker since 2021.
Winter Tyres (Nov 1 - Mar 31)
Winter tyres mandatory from November 1 to March 31 when road conditions require (snow, ice, frost).
Minimum tread depth 4mm. Also mandatory year-round on roads with winter tyre sign. Fine for non-compliance: up to CZK 2,500.
Mandatory Equipment
Must carry: reflective vest (in cabin, not trunk), warning triangle, first-aid kit.
Spare tyre or repair kit recommended. Child seats required for children under 150cm. Replacement bulb set recommended.
Phone Use Prohibited
Handheld phone use prohibited while driving.
Fine: CZK 1,500-2,500 on the spot, up to CZK 10,000 in administrative proceedings, plus 4 points. Hands-free devices are permitted.
STK Vehicle Inspection
Regular technical inspection (STK — Stanice technické kontroly) required for all vehicles.
First inspection at 4 years, then every 2 years. Covers brakes, lights, emissions, chassis, and safety equipment. Without valid STK, vehicle may not be driven.
Tram Priority
Trams (tramvaje) have absolute right-of-way in all situations.
When a tram stops at a platform without a raised island, you must stop and allow passengers to board/alight. Overtaking a tram on the right is prohibited when passengers are embarking/alighting.
Common Road Hazards in Czechia
455 road fatalities in 2023 — know these hazards to stay safe on Czech roads
Rural Road Crashes
A disproportionate number of fatalities occur on two-lane rural roads (silnice II. a III. třídy) — high speeds, narrow roads, and unexpected curves
Winter Conditions
Snow, ice, and fog create hazardous conditions from November to March. Black ice (náledí) is particularly dangerous on bridges and underpasses
Alcohol-Impaired Drivers
Despite zero BAC, alcohol remains a factor in approximately 7% of fatal crashes. Weekend nights and holidays are highest-risk periods
Wildlife Crossings
Deer, wild boar, and other wildlife frequently cross roads, especially at dawn/dusk near forests. Signed wildlife crossing areas require extra caution
Tram Interactions
Prague, Brno, Olomouc, Ostrava, Plzeň, and Liberec have extensive tram networks. Trams always have priority and cannot swerve to avoid collisions
Road Construction
Ongoing motorway expansion (D1, D3, D35) and road maintenance create frequent construction zones with reduced lanes and temporary speed limits
Czechia's 14 Kraje (Regions)
Driving licence administration is handled by municipal offices (obecní úřady) with extended authority in each of the 14 kraje
- 1PrahaPrahaCapital1.3M
- 2Středočeský krajPraha*Kraj1.4M
- 3Jihočeský krajČeské BudějoviceKraj0.6M
- 4Plzeňský krajPlzeňKraj0.6M
- 5Karlovarský krajKarlovy VaryKraj0.3M
- 6Ústecký krajÚstí nad LabemKraj0.8M
- 7Liberecký krajLiberecKraj0.4M
- 8Královéhradecký krajHradec KrálovéKraj0.6M
- 9Pardubický krajPardubiceKraj0.5M
- 10Kraj VysočinaJihlavaKraj0.5M
- 11Jihomoravský krajBrnoKraj1.2M
- 12Olomoucký krajOlomoucKraj0.6M
- 13Zlínský krajZlínKraj0.6M
- 14Moravskoslezský krajOstravaKraj1.2M
Czechia has 14 kraje (regions) including the capital city of Prague. Driving licence testing is administered by municipal offices with extended authority (obecní úřad obce s rozšířenou působností). There are 206 such offices across the country.
Myth: You can have one beer and still drive in Czechia
Fact: Absolutely NOT. Czechia has a strict 0.00% BAC policy — zero tolerance. Even one small beer can put you over the limit. Any detectable alcohol results in a minimum fine of CZK 7,000 (increased in 2024) and 6 points on your licence. This is tested and enforced frequently through random breath tests.
Myth: You don't need a motorway vignette for short motorway sections
Fact: You need a valid dálniční známka for ANY use of marked motorways (dálnice) and expressways, even for a single exit. Since 2021, the vignette is fully electronic — linked to your licence plate. Cameras check compliance automatically. Fine: up to CZK 100,000.
Myth: Winter tyres are only needed when it snows
Fact: Winter tyres are legally required from November 1 to March 31 whenever road conditions require them (which includes frost, ice, and potential snow — not just actual snowfall). On roads marked with a winter tyre sign, they are mandatory year-round regardless of conditions.
Myth: The 12-point system works like other European countries — you start with 12
Fact: The Czech system is ADDITIVE — you start at 0 points and accumulate points for violations. This is the opposite of countries like France or Germany where you start with a full allocation. Reaching 12 accumulated points means licence revocation for 1 year.
Myth: International driving permits are not needed for EU citizens
Fact: This one is actually TRUE. EU/EEA licence holders can drive in Czechia with their home licence indefinitely. However, non-EU visitors generally need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their national licence, except for certain bilateral agreements.
Myth: You can take the driving theory test in English
Fact: The official theory test (zkouška z teorie) is available only in Czech. There is no official English, German, or other language version. Foreign residents must learn enough Czech to pass the test, or some driving schools arrange unofficial interpreter assistance (though this is a grey area).
150 km/h motorway pilot on D3
Since October 2025, a pilot programme allows 150 km/h on selected sections of the D3 motorway. Trial period to evaluate safety impact before potential wider rollout.
Major traffic law reform (January 2024)
Point system simplified to 2/4/6 tiers (previously 2/4/5/6/7). BAC on-the-spot fines increased to CZK 7,000-25,000. New novice driver rules: 6-point threshold, mandatory green dot (zelená tečka). Strengthened enforcement of phone use while driving.
Electronic dálniční známka launched
Physical windshield stickers replaced by electronic motorway vignette system. Purchase online at edalnice.cz, linked to licence plate number. Camera enforcement across the motorway network.
Updated speed camera network
Significant expansion of fixed speed cameras (úsekové měření) on motorways and in urban areas. Average speed measurement sections introduced on D1 motorway.
12-point system reformed
Point values for specific violations were adjusted. New offences added to the point system. Administrative proceedings simplified.
12-point system introduced
Czech Republic introduced the additive 12-point driver licence system (bodový systém). Drivers accumulate points for violations; reaching 12 points results in automatic licence revocation for 1 year.
How Czechia Compares to Neighbours
Czech driving regulations compared to neighbouring countries — data compiled from official government sources
StrictestIn betweenMost lenientBAC limit and minimum age
| Parameter | Czechia | Germany | Austria | Poland | Slovakia |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAC Limit | 0.00% | 0.05% | 0.05% | 0.02% | 0.00% |
| Min. Age (Car) | 18 | 17* | 17* | 18 | 18 |
| Driving Side | Right | Right | Right | Right | Right |
| Motorway Speed | 130 | None* | 130 | 140 | 130 |
| Test Questions | 25 | 30 | 20 | 32 | 25 |
| Licence Cost | ~€800 | ~€3,000 | ~€1,500 | ~€700 | ~€800 |
| Road Deaths/yr | 455 | 2,839 | 395 | 2,024 | 245 |
| Deaths/100K | ~4.2 | ~2.7 | ~3.6 | ~5.9 | ~4.5 |
BAC Limit
Czechia: 0.00%Germany: 0.05%Austria: 0.05%Poland: 0.02%Slovakia: 0.00%Min. Age (Car)
Czechia: 18Germany: 17*Austria: 17*Poland: 18Slovakia: 18Driving Side
Czechia: RightGermany: RightAustria: RightPoland: RightSlovakia: RightMotorway Speed
Czechia: 130Germany: None*Austria: 130Poland: 140Slovakia: 130Test Questions
Czechia: 25Germany: 30Austria: 20Poland: 32Slovakia: 25Licence Cost
Czechia: ~€800Germany: ~€3,000Austria: ~€1,500Poland: ~€700Slovakia: ~€800Road Deaths/yr
Czechia: 455Germany: 2,839Austria: 395Poland: 2,024Slovakia: 245Deaths/100K
Czechia: ~4.2Germany: ~2.7Austria: ~3.6Poland: ~5.9Slovakia: ~4.5
Czechia
Zero tolerance like Slovakia & Hungary. Germany 0.05%, Austria 0.05%, Poland 0.02%.
Standard across region. Germany allows 17 with accompaniment (BF17).
Same as Austria, Poland, Slovakia. Germany: no general limit (Autobahn).
~EUR 800. Germany ~EUR 3,000. Austria ~EUR 1,500. Poland ~PLN 3,000 (~EUR 700).
~4.2 per 100K. Germany 3.4, Austria 3.6, Poland 4.3, Slovakia 4.5 per 100K.
Road deaths: Czechia 455 (Police 2023), Germany 2,839 (Destatis 2023), Austria 395 (BMI 2023), Poland 2,024 (KGP 2023), Slovakia 245 (Police 2023). Per-capita rates per 100K population. Germany Autobahn has advisory speed 130 km/h but no general limit.
Primary Sources
Verification Methodology
Every fact on this page has been cross-referenced against at least two authoritative sources. Our process:
- 1Primary data collected from Czech legislation and government publications
- 2Cross-verified against Ministerstvo dopravy data, Czech Police statistics, and ETSC reports
- 3Regional variations noted where applicable (driving school prices differ by region)
- 4Page reviewed and fact-checked on March 27, 2026
If you find an error, please contact us so we can correct it immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a driving licence cost in Czechia?
A typical category B driving school (autoškola) costs CZK 15,000-25,000 (~EUR 600-1,000). Exam fee is CZK 700, medical certificate CZK 500-1,000, licence issuance CZK 200. Total: approximately CZK 16,500-27,100 (~EUR 660-1,080). Prague is typically the most expensive region.
What is the Czech theory test format?
The theory test (zkouška z teorie) consists of 25 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 30 minutes. Questions carry different point values (1, 2, or 4 points) for a total of 50 points — you must score at least 43/50 points (86%) to pass. The test is computer-based (e-test) and covers traffic signs, right-of-way rules, traffic laws, first aid, and vehicle technical requirements. Available in Czech only.
What is the blood alcohol limit in Czechia?
Czechia has absolute zero tolerance — 0.00% BAC for ALL drivers. Any detectable alcohol is illegal. Penalties (2024 reform): on-the-spot fine CZK 7,000-25,000, administrative fine up to CZK 75,000, 6 points, and licence suspension for 6-12 months. BAC above 0.10% is a criminal offence with up to 3 years imprisonment.
What are the speed limits in Czechia?
Urban areas: 50 km/h. Outside urban areas: 90 km/h. Expressways: 110 km/h. Motorways (dálnice): 130 km/h. Residential zones (zóna 30): 30 km/h. Speed limits are strictly enforced through radar, fixed cameras, and average speed measurement systems.
What are the emergency numbers in Czechia?
112 — EU-wide Emergency (dispatched to appropriate service). 158 — Police (Policie ČR). 150 — Fire Department (Hasiči). 155 — Ambulance (Záchranná služba). All are toll-free and available 24/7. Operators at 112 typically speak English.
Do I need a motorway vignette (dálniční známka)?
Yes, all vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes need a valid electronic dálniční známka to use motorways (dálnice) and selected expressways. Available for 1 day (CZK 230), 10 days (CZK 300), 30 days (CZK 480), or 1 year (CZK 2,570) — 2026 prices. Purchase at edalnice.cz. Linked to your licence plate — no physical sticker. Enforcement by automatic cameras.
How does the Czech 12-point system work?
The Czech system is ADDITIVE — you start at 0 points and accumulate points for violations. Since the January 2024 reform, violations carry 2, 4, or 6 points (simplified from the previous 2/4/5/6/7 tiers). Reaching 12 accumulated points results in automatic licence revocation for 1 year. You must then retake both theory and practical exams. Points for each violation expire after 12 months if no new points are added. New drivers (under 2 years) face a 6-point threshold.
Are winter tyres mandatory in Czechia?
Yes, from November 1 to March 31, winter tyres are mandatory when road conditions require them (snow, ice, frost). Minimum tread depth is 4mm. On roads marked with a winter tyre sign, they are mandatory year-round. Fine for non-compliance: up to CZK 2,500.
Can I take the theory test in English?
No. The official theory test (zkouška z teorie) is available only in Czech. There is no official English version. Some driving schools may arrange unofficial assistance, but this is a grey area. Foreign residents should prepare thoroughly using Czech-language study materials.
What is STK (vehicle inspection)?
STK (Stanice technické kontroly) is the mandatory periodic vehicle inspection. First inspection at 4 years after initial registration, then every 2 years. Covers brakes, lights, emissions, chassis, and safety equipment. Without a valid STK, the vehicle may not be driven on public roads. Cost: approximately CZK 800-1,200.
Do I need to keep headlights on during the day?
Yes. Czech law requires dipped headlights (potkávací světla) to be on at ALL times — day and night, year-round, on all roads. This applies to all motor vehicles. Daytime running lights (DRL) are accepted as an alternative. Penalty: CZK 1,500-2,500.
What equipment must I carry in my car?
Mandatory equipment: reflective vest (must be in the cabin, not the trunk — you need to put it on before exiting the vehicle at the roadside), warning triangle, and first-aid kit. For vehicles registered in Czechia, a spare tyre or repair kit is also recommended. Child seats are required for children under 150cm.
What is the minimum driving age in Czechia?
Category AM (mopeds): 15 years. Category A1 (light motorcycles up to 125cc): 16 years. Category B (cars): 18 years (or 17 with accompanied driving program where available). Category A2 (motorcycles up to 35kW): 18 years. Category A (unlimited motorcycles): 24 years (or 20 with 2 years A2 experience). Category T (tractors): 17 years.
Can foreigners drive in Czechia?
EU/EEA licence holders can drive in Czechia with their home licence indefinitely. Non-EU visitors should carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their national licence. Some bilateral agreements allow certain national licences without an IDP. For stays over 185 days, non-EU residents should exchange their licence for a Czech one.
What are the rules for new drivers (nováčci)?
New drivers in the first 2 years after obtaining their licence face stricter rules: only 6 points allowed (instead of 12) before licence revocation, must display a green dot sticker (zelená tečka) on the vehicle, and face the same zero BAC requirement as all drivers. If the licence is revoked during the probationary period, the entire process must be repeated.
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AutoviaTest. (2026, March 27). Czechia driving licence facts 2026 — Theory test, fees, fines & rules. https://autoviatest.com/en/driving-test/czechia/facts
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AutoviaTest. "Czechia Driving Licence Facts 2026 — Theory Test, Fees, Fines & Rules." AutoviaTest, 27 Mar. 2026, autoviatest.com/en/driving-test/czechia/facts.
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AutoviaTest. "Czechia Driving Licence Facts 2026 — Theory Test, Fees, Fines & Rules." Last modified March 27, 2026. https://autoviatest.com/en/driving-test/czechia/facts.
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