If you are arriving in Prague from abroad and wish to rent a car, you will need a valid driving licence and an identity document, and you must be over 21 years of age. It is also helpful to know a few basic Czech rules (traffic drives on the right, headlights must be on all year round, and there is zero tolerance for alcohol) and to be aware that parking in central Prague is best planned in advance. Below you will find a practical overview that will save you time and stress from the very first day.
What to bring when collecting the car
At the JJ Rent Car branch in Westfield Černý Most (Chlumecká 765/6, Praha 14), you will need:
- a valid driving licence – ideally one that may be used in the Czech Republic; if you are a driver from a non-EU country, please call us in advance to check whether your licence is sufficient or whether you also need an international one;
- an identity document – a passport or national ID card;
- a minimum age of 21;
- funds for the security deposit – you will find the amount on the page of the specific vehicle, as we do not wish to surprise you on the spot.
You will find the full overview in our rental terms and conditions. We have also compiled a more detailed checklist of documents in the article What You Need to Rent a Car in Prague. Alternatively, you are welcome to ask by phone on +420 703 149 146 or by e-mail at [email protected].
Basic rules of the road in the Czech Republic
This is not an exhaustive list of the law, but it covers the points that most often catch foreign visitors off guard:
- Traffic drives on the right, and overtaking is on the left.
- Headlights must be on all year round, even during the day.
- Drinking and driving is strictly forbidden. The Czech Republic has zero tolerance, so please do not have even a single beer.
- Speed is governed by road signs. In built-up areas the limit is usually 50 km/h, while higher limits apply outside towns and on motorways. Always follow the current road signs; in Prague, many sections have lower limits and speed is monitored.
- Trams play a major role in Prague. Take care when entering a tram lane, turning across tracks or when passengers are getting off onto a tram island, and follow the signs.
- Motorways are subject to a toll in the form of an electronic motorway vignette. When collecting the car, please ask how this is arranged for the vehicle you are taking, so that you do not have to deal with anything while driving.
- Winter season: in the winter months, winter equipment may be required in certain conditions. If you are arriving in winter, please ask about the vehicle's equipment.
- Using a phone while driving without a hands-free system is prohibited.
Parking in Prague: what to prepare for
For visitors, parking is often a bigger challenge than the driving itself. A few guidelines can help:
- Central Prague has paid parking zones, and restrictions for residents apply in parts of the city. Always follow the vertical signs and the information panel at the parking meter, or use the app.
- Do not park in spaces reserved for residents, or in the blue and orange zones without a valid permit or payment – you risk a fine or having your car towed.
- Watch the parking time. Some spaces have a time limit.
- Never leave valuables in plain sight in the car – this applies in every large city.
- Consider a P+R car park on the outskirts of the city and take the metro or tram into the centre. For sightseeing in the historic core, this is often the most convenient option.
- A hotel with parking is an advantage. When booking accommodation, ask whether it has a garage or reserved spaces.
Specific conditions always depend on the current signage – do not rely only on what you saw an hour ago two streets away.
Which car to choose for your first trip around Prague
Your choice depends mainly on how many of you are travelling and what you plan to do.
- A couple or solo traveller in the centre: The Škoda Fabia is compact, air-conditioned and has 5 seats. It suits narrow streets and smaller parking spaces. You will find more details in the article Škoda Fabia for Rent in Prague.
- A family with luggage or trips around the Czech Republic: The Škoda Octavia Combi offers a large boot and a 1.6 TDI diesel engine. Please note that it has a manual gearbox.
- If you prefer not to change gears: choose a car with an automatic gearbox, for example a Škoda Superb or Kodiaq from our fleet. This is especially pleasant in city traffic and in queues.
Some cars have satellite navigation as standard, while others do not (the Fabia, for example, does not). If you need it, please choose according to the vehicle's details, or use your phone.
Trips abroad and vehicle delivery
If you wish to set off from Prague to neighbouring Germany or Austria, for example, this is possible only by prior arrangement and only to EU countries. In addition, breakdown assistance is mandatory when travelling abroad. All of our vehicles have compulsory third-party liability insurance and collision insurance; in the event of an accident, the client pays an excess depending on the type of insurance. You can read more in the overview of services.
If you would rather not travel to the branch, please arrange vehicle delivery within Prague by phone or e-mail. You will save time, especially after arrival by air or when moving between hotels.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an international driving licence?
It depends on the country in which your licence was issued. If you are unsure, please write to us or call us before booking and we will check it with you.
Can I take the car to other countries?
Yes, but only to EU countries, by prior arrangement and with mandatory breakdown assistance.
Where is the best place to park in central Prague?
The safest options are a hotel with parking or a P+R car park on the outskirts of the city. On the street, always check the zone and the signage.
How is the car delivered?
You can arrange delivery within Prague by phone or e-mail before you arrive.
Book your car before you arrive
Choose a vehicle according to the number of people and your travel plans, check the details including the deposit and the mileage limit, and submit your enquiry. If you are unsure about the documents or the route, please contact us first via our contact page. You can complete your booking on the reservation page.
