Toll roads in the Czech Republic: everything you need to know about toll roads
In the Czech Republic, the network of motorways and expressways is tolled for both cars and trucks. If you plan to travel on the Czech motorways, it is important to know how the motorway toll system works, what the prices are and how you can pay for using the motorways. In this article, you will learn all the important information about toll roads in the Czech Republic and get practical advice on preparing for the trip.
Toll roads in the Czech Republic: which sections are tolled?
In the Czech Republic, mostly highways and expressways that are marked with the letter D (e.g. D1, D5, D8 , etc.) are tolled. Driving on these roads is mandatory for all motor vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tons, and a special electronic payment system applies to heavier vehicles.
The main toll roads in the Czech Republic include:
- D1 : main road between Prague and Brno.
- D5 : connects Prague with the German border near Rozvadov.
- D8 : leads from Prague to the German border in the direction of Dresden.
- D11 : connects Prague with Hradec Králové.
Prices for vignettes for passenger vehicles
Vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tons must have a purchased ticket to drive through toll road sections. Since 2021, road signs in the Czech Republic are electronic , which means that there is no longer a need to stick stickers on the car’s windshield. The electronic toll stamp is linked to the vehicle number plate and can be easily purchased online.
Types of road vignettes and their prices for 2024:
- Annual fee : 1,500 Czech crowns (valid for 365 days from the date of purchase, not only until the end of the calendar year).
- 30-day stamp : 440 kroner .
- 10-day stamp : 310 crowns .
These prices are valid for cars weighing up to 3.5 tons. No road signs are required for motorcycles, and other payment systems apply for vehicles over 3.5 tons.
Where to buy a Czech vignette?
An electronic stamp can be purchased in several ways:
- Online on the official website edalnice.cz . Here you select the desired validity period of the stamp, enter the registration number of the vehicle and the date of validity.
- At gas stations and in some post offices.
- At self-service kiosks at some border crossings and other locations.
Payment can be made by credit card or bank transfer. After payment, the stamp will be assigned to your car’s license plate, and the information about the valid stamp is stored in the electronic system.
The payment system for trucks over 3.5 tons
For trucks and buses over 3.5 tons, a different system applies – the so-called fee . This fee is calculated based on mileage and vehicle category. Drivers must have on-board devices (OBU) installed in their cars, which record the kilometers traveled on toll roads.
Fares:
The amount of the duty varies depending on:
- Vehicle category (number of axles and vehicle weight).
- Emission class of the vehicle (the lower the emission class, the higher the toll).
- Type of road (motorway or expressway).
Tolls are collected through the MYTO CZ system , which manages all tolls for vehicles over 3.5 tonnes on motorways and Class 1 roads.
Penalties for driving without a vignette
If a driver passes through toll areas without a valid stamp, he faces a fine of up to 5,000 Czech crowns on the spot or up to 20,000 Czech crowns in an administrative order. Therefore, before entering the toll highway, it is recommended to purchase a freeway stamp.
Exemption from tolls
Some vehicles are exempt from tolls. They include:
- Electric cars and cars on water.
- Vehicles for the transportation of persons with disabilities (on the basis of a special permit).
- Historic vehicles (registered with a vintage sign).
Tips for driving on toll roads in the Czech Republic
- Plan ahead : Make sure you have a valid motorway stamp before you travel. If you’re only going for a short time, a 10-day stamp may be more economical.
- Take advantage of e-stamps : Thanks to the electronic system, you don’t have to worry about when and where to put the sticker, and you can buy a stamp from the comfort of your home.
- Beware of free sections : Some sections of motorways are free, such as on the outskirts of major cities, but most major sections are tolled.
Traveling on toll roads in the Czech Republic is easy if you have a valid electronic stamp. A variety of payment options and easy availability of stamps make driving on the highways fast and convenient. Plan your trips in advance, buy the right type of stamp and enjoy safe and calm driving on Czech roads.