Common Mistakes Foreigners Make While Driving in the Czech Republic

Driving a car in the Czech Republic can initially be a challenge for foreign drivers. Czech traffic rules are sometimes strict, and the police keep a close watch on their observance. Many expats or tourists who get behind the wheel in the Czech Republic make similar mistakes — whether out of ignorance or because they’re used to different rules in their home country. Let’s take a look at the most common errors foreigners make on Czech roads and how to avoid them.

1. Lack of knowledge of the right-of-way rules

One of the biggest pitfalls for foreigners are Czech intersections without traffic lights. The Czech Republic follows the “priority to the right” rule — unless indicated otherwise, vehicles coming from the right have the right of way. Drivers from other countries often forget this, which leads to dangerous situations.

2. Speed limits

Many foreigners make mistakes regarding speed limits. In the Czech Republic, the limits are:

• 50 km/h in built-up areas
• 90 km/h outside built-up areas
• 130 km/h on motorways (150 km/h on special sections of motorways)

Although the 50 km/h limit in cities is common across Europe, foreigners often drive 60–70 km/h in towns, as “that’s normal elsewhere.” Czech police issue high fines for such violations. Speed is monitored not only by patrols but also by fixed speed cameras.

3. An intersection cancels the speed restriction

A peculiar Czech road rule relates to speed limits. If there is no sign ending a reduced speed limit, it automatically ends at the next intersection. Don’t be surprised if locals start overtaking you after a junction — they know the reduced limit no longer applies.

4. Alcohol behind the wheel

While some European countries tolerate small amounts of alcohol, the Czech Republic enforces zero tolerance. Any level of alcohol in your blood is an offense. Fines can reach up to CZK 50,000 (EUR 2,045) and lead to a one-year driving ban. If you cause an accident under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the penalties are even stricter.

5. Using a mobile phone while driving

Calling without a hands-free device or texting while driving is a common mistake, not only among tourists. The on-the-spot fine can be up to CZK 3,500 (EUR 145); in administrative proceedings, up to CZK 10,000 (EUR 410).

6. Parking in cities

Prague and other Czech cities use a system of color-coded parking zones:

• Blue zones – for residents only
• Purple zones – paid parking for visitors (can be paid via an app)
• Orange zones – short-term parking, usually up to 3 hours

Foreigners often park in the blue zone thinking they’ll “pay at the meter” — but there may be no parking meter at all. In Prague, blue zones are paid exclusively online. The result? A fine or towing.

7. Motorway vignettes

Since 2021, Czech motorway vignettes are fully electronic. A common problem occurs when foreigners enter the wrong license plate number during purchase. The system detects this, and fines can be up to CZK 5,000 (EUR 205).

8. Winter tires

From November 1 to March 31, vehicles in the Czech Republic must be equipped with winter tires if there is snow or ice on the road. In mountainous areas marked with a specific sign, winter tires are mandatory regardless of weather. Many foreigners underestimate this rule and are surprised by fines.

9. Driving in the left lane on the motorway

The left lane is strictly for overtaking. A frequent mistake: foreign drivers cruise in the left lane without overtaking, blocking traffic. This can result in fines of up to CZK 2,000 (EUR 82).

Tip: If a traffic jam forms on a multi-lane road (typically a motorway), drivers are required to create an emergency corridor for police, firefighters, or ambulances. This is done between the left lane and the adjacent lane to the right.

10. Lights and daytime running lights

Czech law requires drivers to have their lights on at all times. Foreigners often forget this, especially in summer, even though modern cars are usually equipped with daytime running lights. This too can result in a fine.

Consequences of these mistakes

• Fines – from CZK 1,000 (EUR 40) for minor offenses to CZK 50,000 (EUR 2,045) for alcohol
• Vehicle towing – typically for illegal parking
• License confiscation – in cases of serious rule violations
• Insurance issues – if you break the law, the insurer may refuse to cover damages

Conclusion

Driving in the Czech Republic is not difficult if you know the basic rules. The usual mistakes foreigners make come from different customs or unfamiliarity with local regulations. A little preparation is all it takes – and instead of fines or problems, you can enjoy a pleasant ride through the Czech countryside.