It is essential to obtain a vignette before using the motorways and expressways in the Czech Republic. However, some sections of the roads are free of charge.
For example, it is possible to drive without a vignette on D8, D5, and D2 to the first service area of the motorway, as the fee is required after this point.
If you exclude the paid routes, you don’t need a special permit, but your journey will be longer, so keep that in mind. Remember to pay the toll where necessary, as without it, you will be punished by a fine.
What are the distance limitations for driving without a vignette?
Drivers of vehicles weighing less than 3.5 t must have a vignette on motorways and expressways in the Czech Republic. However, the sections listed below are free of charge. You don’t need to cover the fee while using them:
- D0 Prague city ring road (partially toll-free)
- D1 Prague – Brno (exits 182-210)
- D1 Brno – Ostrava (exit 354 to Polish border)
- D3 Veselí nad Lužnicí Nord – Bošilec (exits 104-109)
- D5 Pilsen – Prague (exits 89-67)
- D6 Cheb – Karlovy Vary (exits 162-131)
- D7 Chomutov – Louny (exits 18-78)
- D11 Sedlice – Kukleny (exits 84-90)
- D35 Sedlice – Opatovice (exits 126-129)
- D35 Mohelnice – Olomouc (exits 261-276)
- D46 Hněvotín – Olomouc, Slavonín (exits 37-39)
- D48 Frýdek-Místek – Dobrá (exits 47-54)
- D52 Pohořelice (exits 23-26)
- D55 Otrokovice (exits 30-32)
Also, you can plan the route and exclude the paid roads. In this case, no vignette limitations occur, but it is not so convenient and time-saving. Remember to carefully analyze the trip beforefand if you decide to avoid buying a vignette. The paid and free sections on the motorways are marked by special traffic signs (such as E11 and E11b), so it is simple to pick the proper way.
What are the penalties for driving without a vignette on the Czech motorways and expressways?
Vehicles up to 3.5 t must have a vignette to drive through toll sections on the motorways and expressways in the Czech Republic. Random vignette checks are done regularly by the police, and new cameras easily detect drivers whose license plate number is not registered in the system.
The control can be done at motorway stations, car parks, or even remotely. Those who don’t respect the rules are subject to a financial penalty of up to CZK 20,000.
Remember to prepare before the trip and obtain all the necessary permits to avoid inconveniences.
FAQ
What are the penalties for driving without a vignette in the Czech Republic?
Those who don’t have a vignette on the tollways in the Czech Republic will be punished with a financial fine of up to CZK 20,000. The system, including cameras and random checks, is very efficient. To enjoy the drive without problems, purchase a vignette beforehand. You can do it online with just a few clicks.
Where are vignettes in the Czech Republic not necessary?
Some route sections on the motorways and expressways don’t require a vignette. Those who avoid tollways don’t need special permits (however, this option is more demanding and time-consuming).
How to check that the road is toll-free?
Checking if you need a vignette on a specific section is simple. You can do it online by searching the route on the map or by following the proper road signs. If you see IP14a + E11 signs, those motorway parts are free of charge, while E11b indicates a vignette requirement for vehicles up to 3.5t.
Is it possible to buy a traditional vignette at the border if I forget to obtain it in advance?
Yes, you can purchase a traditional vignette at sales points, such as gas stations, before you use the paid roads. However, it is better to get a vignette electronically, as it’s more convenient.
Is a vignette a must-have if I’m only passing through the Czech Republic?
A vignette is not necessary if you pick free sections of the roads in the Czech Republic. In another case, vehicles up to 3.5 t must have a permit.
What happens if I am caught driving without a vignette in the Czech Republic?
You need to cover a fine of up to CZK 20,000 if you don’t have a necessary Czech vignette on the motorways and expressways.