International Driver's License In Czech Republic: Hassle-Free Car Rental

Yes, a foreign tourist can drive a rented motor vehicle around the Czech Republic with an International Driving Permit (IDP) as per Vienna Convention on Road Traffic as long as they have a valid driver’s license with them. They will also need an IDP to rent vehicles from local car rental companies within the country.

To get an IDP you only need to follow these steps:

1. Click the “Start My Application” button on the upper right corner of the page.
2. Next, fill out the application form.
3. Attach a copy of your valid driving license along with your passport-sized photo.
4. Pay your IDP fee with your credit card.

Our IDP is valid in 165+ countries, including the following:

• Norway
• Italy
• Slovakia
• United Kingdom
• Switzerland
• Germany
• Liechtenstein
• Canada
• And other EU countries and non-EU countries.

Regardless of Americans possessing a US driver’s license which is in English, not all local road traffic authorities in the country are well-versed in the language. Therefore, it is still highly recommended, to get an IDP along with your driving license to drive within the country.

Do note that you only need an IDP and driver’s license to drive motorcycles or cars within the country for less than three months. However, if you are planning on driving within this foreign country for more than three months, then you will be required to get a Czech driving licence. This means you will be required to go enroll in a driving school, take a driving test, and present your permanent residence permit.

Yes, all European Union member States can drive within any municipality in the country. Please note that an International Driving Licence does not exist. The document which translates your valid driving license into 12 of the widely used languages worldwide is called an IDP.

As a landlocked country, the Czech Republic sits in the heart of Central Europe. It has been a habitat for Celts, Germanic tribes, and Slavic. From the Holy Roman Empire’s rise to being a colony of the Soviet Union, then an independent state of Czechoslovakia, to its peaceful separation from Slovakia in 1993, the Czech Republic has endured many growing pains and phases. Now it is a thriving nation that compels wanderers who can’t get enough of its rich history.

Although smaller than its bordering nations, the Czech Republic, or Czechia, boasts a plethora of impressive chateaux, castles, and monuments, all hailed from different eras of architecture. After all, the best presents come in small packages, right? So, it's about time for you to set foot on the Czech soil and tick it off your bucket list. The country has many UNESCO World Heritage sites that are easily accessible by car.

Prague

You probably heard about Prague before, but you’re not sure what to expect from this wonderful capital city of Czechia. To begin with, Prague is a Bohemian region and the country's largest city. With over 1.3 million inhabitants, it takes up a great portion of the country's population. Prague is the historic core of the country, packed with striking and colorful baroque buildings, churches inspired by the Gothic and Renaissance periods, and the monumental Astro clock.

The city garnered its label as one the most visited cities in Europe, with a UNESCO World Heritage site sash on the side. If you’re into nightlife, Prague is a good spot to grab a cold beer and enjoy the delicious local cuisine.

Český Krumlov

Garnering the title of UNESCO World Heritage site in 1992, this city of the castle has cobblestoned streets and a well-preserved layout that will surely take you back to the medieval period.

Telč

Located in the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands between České Budějovice and Brno, Telč is a small, fairytale-like town with only about 5,500 people. It is also named a UNESCO World Heritage site because of its Renaissance chateaux and colorful houses that add color to even a dreary day.

Brno

Brno is the Czech Republic’s second-largest city next to Prague and is a university-centered city with local beer bars, cafes, and museums you can enjoy. Brno, aside from Prague, is in the Czech Republic in a nutshell.

Olomouc

This baroque city is Czech Republic’s 6th largest in the Moravian region. Olomouc has been one of the most important cities in the country for centuries and houses the Czech Monarchy. If you’re hooked in medieval astronomical clocks, you will love the one built in the city’s town hall. Olomouc boasts vibrant sceneries of impressive architecture, a thriving local craft beer scene, and its popular Moravian wine. Your Czech itinerary wouldn’t be as amazing without visiting Olomouc.

Plzeň

Here’s another city you shouldn’t miss, especially if you love beer (the golden Pilsner lager, in particular). It’s the Czech Republic’s fourth-largest city in western Bohemia that is worth exploring because it simply is wonderful.

České Budějovice

This city sits at the junction of the Vltava and Malše rivers and is home to another world-famous beer, beautiful architecture, and sceneries. České Budějovice defines a typical Czech city, welcoming you with hospitality and amazing sights of local establishments.

Driving in the Czech Republic offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history and architectural brilliance that the country has to offer. As you prepare for this journey, understanding the Czech driving rules is key to having a safe and enjoyable adventure. These rules align closely with those of many other European countries, but it is essential to familiarize yourself with the specifics.

Don’t drink and drive

While some EU nations allow a subtle amount of blood alcohol content (BAC) when driving, the Czech Republic, on the other hand, does not permit diving even with a very little percentage of alcohol in your blood. Drunk driving is one of the leading causes of vehicular accidents in the Czech Republic in recent years. Failure to adhere to this role will get you into trouble with the local authorities and can get you fined between 900 to 1800 euros.

Alcohol and drugs are considered criminal offenses in the Czech Republic, so better adhere and comply with undergoing a breathalyzer or blood test. If you refuse to do so, you will have to pay the same amount of fine.

Don’t use your mobile phone while driving

Driving in the Czech Republic while using your mobile phone on your hand is against traffic rules. Do not also wedge your mobile phone between and shoulder. Once the police officers catch you, you can get fined 50 to 90 euros. If you wish to make a quick phone call while driving your vehicle, use a hands-free device instead. This will save your pocket, your life, and others.

Don’t drive above the speed limit

In the Czech Republic, the speed limit is defined by which road you drive on. Maintain a speed limit of 130 kph on the motorway, 50 kph in the built-up areas, and 90 kph outside the built-up areas. If you go above these speed limits, even so slightly, you can get pulled over and pay a fine amounting between 20 to 70 euros.