Rules & Regulations
Here are some rules and driving tips that you should know before you start your road trip in the Czech Republic:
- When driving in the Czech Republic remember that you have to drive on the right-hand side of the road.
- Always carry your licence when driving. Your UK Licence will be accepted in the Czech Republic as well as most other EU countries. An International Driving Permit is only needed with a paper licence.
- All passengers and occupants must use seat belts. Children with a weight under 36kg and under 150cm in height are not permitted to travel in a vehicle unless using a suitable restraint system, adapted to their size and weight. A child seated in the front seats of a vehicle using a suitable child restraint system where the airbag is activated must travel facing forward.
- You must be aged 18 or older and hold a valid driver’s license.
- Drinking and driving are strictly forbidden and you will be penalized for anything above 0% blood alcohol level. You could get fined between 25,000 and 50,000 Czech crowns (CZK) and have your licence withdrawn for up to two years.
- Passing lights (dipped headlights) must be used when visibility is poor due to bad weather conditions.
- Third-party insurance is compulsory.
- The use of mobile phones is prohibited whilst driving in the Czech Republic.
Please make sure that you are aware of all the road regulations before you start your trip in the Czech Republic.
Speed Limits
Standard legal limits, which may be varied by signs, for private vehicles without trailers are:
- In built-up areas 31 mph (50 km/h)
- Outside built-up areas 55 mph (90 km/h)
- Motorways (for vehicles not exceeding 3500kg and buses) 80 mph (130 km/h)
- On expressways that pass through built-up areas 50mph (80 km/h)
- Maximum speed with snow chains 31 mph (50km/h)
- At railway crossings, drivers must not exceed 18 mph (30 km/h) for 50m before the crossing. The arrival of a train is indicated by red flashing lights / red or yellow flags.
Things to Bring Along
It is compulsory to have the following equipment with you when driving in the Czech Republic:
- First-aid kit
- A set of replacement bulbs
- A set of replacement fuses
- Warning triangle
- Reflective jacket – EU standard EN471
- The driver of a vehicle with 2 or more axles must carry a reflective waistcoat, it has to be worn in the event of a breakdown or emergency outside a built-up area, on all roads. It has to be worn when exiting the vehicle and must be kept within the car (not the boot).
Winter Tyres
Winter tyres are compulsory from 1 November to 31 March on all wheels of passenger vehicles when there is compacted snow or ice on the road or if it’s expected.
The minimum depth on winter tyres is 4 mm. As spikes are forbidden snow chains can only be used when roads are completely covered, we recommend that winter tyres are fitted.
Vehicles over 3.4 tonnes must have a minimum tyre tread of 6mm.
Additional Information
Sixt has a number of branches for when you are driving in the Czech Republic including airports and all the major cities making your road trip easier.
If you travel to the capital, Prague, you will be able to make the most of your time using Sixt car hire to take you around the city that is steeped in history and culture. There you can visit St Vitus’s Cathedral, Charles Bridge, Wenceslas Square, Prague Castle, Old-Town Hall, and the Astronomical Clock.
Also worth checking out in the Czech Republic is Teplice a beautiful spa town at the northern border, the bone church of Kunta Hora, the picturesque town of Telc and the stunning Natural Park Divoká šárka.
Sixt car rental can help you on your way to see as much of the Czech Republic as possible. It’s useful to have a car rental when travelling to the Czech Republic to allow you enough time to see everything the country has to offer.
