Driving a Rental Car in the Czech Republic
Parking in Prague & Highway Vignettes (with official links)
1. General Driving Rules in the Czech Republic
When driving a rental car in the Czech Republic, you must follow local traffic laws:
Driving is on the right-hand side.
Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers.
Low-beam headlights must be on at all times, day and night.
Zero alcohol tolerance – driving under the influence is strictly prohibited.
Children under 150 cm or 36 kg must use an appropriate child seat.
Speed limits (unless road signs state otherwise):
Built-up areas: 50 km/h
Outside built-up areas: 90 km/h
Motorways: 130 km/h
⚠️ Important notice regarding fines:
If a traffic or parking violation occurs, the fine is usually issued to the car rental company, not directly to the driver. The processing of such fines may take several weeks or even a few months. Once received, the amount will be charged to the renter’s payment card, together with an administrative handling fee, as specified in the rental agreement.
2. Highway Vignettes (Tolls) in the Czech Republic
What is a vignette?
The Czech Republic uses an electronic highway vignette (e-vignette) instead of toll booths.
It is mandatory for vehicles up to 3.5 tons, including rental cars, when driving on motorways.
The vignette is linked to the vehicle’s license plate – nothing is placed on the windshield.
Important for rental cars
Do not assume your rental car already has a valid vignette.
Always check your rental agreement.
If not included, you must purchase it before entering a motorway.
Official purchase website (recommended)
E-vignette prices (approx.)
Validity
Price
1 day
approx. 210 CZK
10 days
approx. 290 CZK
30 days
approx. 460 CZK
1 year
approx. 2,440 CZK
Electric vehicles are exempt, but must be registered in the official system.
⚠️ Penalty and payment process:
Driving on a motorway without a valid vignette may result in a fine of up to 20,000 CZK.
Such fines are typically sent to the rental company, and the settlement process may take several months. The final amount charged to the renter may be increased by administrative fees, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the car rental agreement.
3. Parking in Prague – Short Guide
Parking in Prague is regulated and paid in most central areas.
Official parking information
Parking zones (street parking)
🔵 Blue zone – mainly for residents (limited options for visitors)
🟣 Purple zone – paid parking for everyone, time-limited
🟠 Orange zone – short-term paid parking
Prices in the city center typically range from 30 to 80 CZK per hour, depending on location.
⚠️ Parking fines:
Parking fines are usually issued after the fact and sent to the vehicle owner (the rental company). The processing time can take several weeks or months, and once settled, the renter will be charged the fine plus an administrative feedefined in the rental contract.
P+R (Park & Ride)
A recommended option for visitors:
Located on the outskirts of Prague
Daily price approx. 50–100 CZK
Direct connection to metro and public transport
4. Practical Tips for Renters
Always confirm whether the vignette is included in your rental.
Carefully observe parking signs and zone colors.
Be aware that fines may be charged long after the rental period has ended, together with additional administrative costs.