Home to twelve UNESCO sites, the Czech Republic is definitely a place where both young and old travellers can spend their holidays. Its capital, Prague, is among the most beautiful cities in the world and is definitely worth the visit. To get around by car, however, one must take note of some things pertinent to the country.
Obtaining a driver’s license for small motorcycles is allowed for those fifteen (15) years old, while a driver must be at least sixteen (16) years old to get a license to drive cars. Take note that your driver’s license is good until it expires. With only your driver’s license, motor vehicle registration documents, and international green insurance card, you can legally drive in the country. Unlike other countries, you don’t need to bring with you certain mandatory equipment such as spare bulbs and fire extinguishers. You do, however, still need to have a reflective jacket, a warning triangle, and a first aid kit with you at all times. There should also be appropriate restrain systems facing backwards for a child seated in front.
During winter, which is from November 1 and March 31, drivers are also required to have winter tires in some areas. You can identify these areas with a road sign that has an image depicting a car and a snowflake. Upon reaching that point, you should already be in compliance with the required winter tires or, if you don’t have them, snow chains. Drivers should also observe these regulations in areas that are also completely covered in snow, regardless of the road signs.
Czech Republic doesn’t use motorway toll booths. Instead, they require vehicles to have a vignette, which can be bought at any fuel station. There is a 50 km/h general speed limit for roads within municipalities and 90 km/h outside. Motorways observe a 130 km/h speed limit. Lorries exceeding 3. 5 tonnes, however, are required to maintain an 80 km/h speed limit. Driving while under the influence of even the slightest bit of alcohol or other psychotropic substances is a criminal offense, so make sure you avoid drinking if you know you’re always on the road.
Traffic enforcement in Czech Republic is pretty good, with over 3, 500 units, composed of police officers and civilians. Civilians handle the examination of licenses and other documents, as well as administrative proceedings. Those caught with violations are fined on the spot, and are subjected to a very restrictive points system, which applies to both local and foreign licenses. Licenses that reach 12 points are forfeited for 12 months, and foreign drivers won’t be allowed to drive any motor vehicle within that period.
Make sure you give way to pedestrians, as they are given priority to cross. You are also not allowed to use your car horn between 8:00 PM and 6:00 AM. But if you are in Prague, you are not allowed to use the horn at all.
Make sure you get to visit all the tourist spots in Czech Republic by driving out, but make sure you also make stops within cities to try the spas and local cuisine.
Summary
| A driver must be at least sixteen years old to get a license to drive a car. |
| You don't need to carry equipment such as spare bulbs and fire extinguishers unlike other EU Countries. |
| You do need to have a reflective jacket, a warning triangle, and a first aid kit with you at all times. |
| Between November 1 and March 31, drivers are also required to have winter tires in some areas. |
| There are no motorway toll booths, however; you are required to have a vignette, which can be bought at any fuel station. |
| 50 km/h speed limit within municipalities, 90 km/h outside and 130 km/h maximum on motorways. |
| Driving while under the influence of even the slightest bit of alcohol is a criminal offense. |
| Road violations are fined on the spot, and are subjected to a very restrictive points system, which applies to both local and foreign licenses. |
| Pedestrians have priority to crossings. |
| In Prague, you are not allowed to use the horn. In other areas, its forbidden between 8:00 PM and 6:00 AM. |