If you're renting a car in Prague as a foreign visitor, bring a valid driving licence and identity document, remember that traffic drives on the right, and plan a relaxed route for your first day without rushing. Trams, right of way and paid parking zones tend to cause the most surprises in the city centre. This article does not focus on a general list of documents but rather describes what your first day behind the wheel looks like: from collecting the vehicle to your first parking.
What to Bring When Collecting Your Vehicle
To rent with us, you will need:
- a valid driving licence,
- an identity document,
- a minimum age of 21,
- a deposit depending on the vehicle type (you can find the amount in the details of each car).
Before you set off, review our rental terms. All our vehicles include third-party liability insurance and comprehensive insurance. In the event of an accident, the client pays a contribution depending on the insurance type, so clarify this when collecting the vehicle. Check in advance whether your home country driving licence is sufficient or if you need anything else. If you are unsure, call or email us via contact before your arrival.
Traffic Rules That Surprise Most Often
The basics are straightforward: traffic drives on the right, and all occupants must be seatbelted. However, there are some Czech-specific rules worth repeating:
- Alcohol: the Czech Republic has zero tolerance for alcohol. Not even one beer at lunch before driving is a good idea.
- Lights: headlights must be on during the day all year round.
- Right of way: at intersections without markings in residential areas, drivers must give way to vehicles coming from the right.
- Speed: in built-up areas, the usual limit is 50 km/h; outside built-up areas and on motorways there are different limits. Follow the signs—they change frequently in Prague.
- Children: young children must be in the appropriate car seat. If you need one, arrange this in advance.
- Mobile phones: you cannot hold a phone while driving.
Motorways and some other sections require a paid usage fee. Ask when collecting the vehicle how this applies to your specific car, to avoid unpleasant surprises at border crossings or when exiting Prague.
Trams, Zones and Other Peculiarities of Prague
Prague trams are the biggest novelty for drivers from other countries. A few rules will help:
- Trams often share the same lane as cars and have priority in many situations.
- When a tram stops at a station and passengers are alighting, stop ahead of it and wait if there is no boarding island.
- Tram tracks and cobblestones can be slippery in the rain. Avoid sharp braking.
- Set your navigation in advance. One-way streets and turns in the city centre are harder to navigate without local knowledge.
If Prague is new to you, a car with navigation and automatic transmission will help. Then you can focus on the traffic instead of gear changing. For example, we offer the Škoda Superb Liftback, which has both automatic transmission and navigation.
Parking in Prague: How to Avoid a Fine
In the city centre and surrounding districts, there are paid parking zones that are colour-coded. Each zone has its own rules about who can park there and for how long. What to remember:
- First, read the traffic sign and information on the parking meter. Check which zone it is.
- Payment can be made at the meter or through a mobile app, depending on what the zone offers.
- Resident parking spaces are not for guests, even if they appear empty.
- Outside the centre it is often easier to find a space near metro stations and then take public transport into the centre.
- Before you leave, take a photo of the ticket or app confirmation. It will help if there are any queries.
If possible, choose a smaller car. It will be easier to drive in narrow streets and tight parking spaces. For city use, the Škoda Fabia is suitable, which we have described in more detail in our article Škoda Fabia for Rent in Prague.
Which Car to Choose Based on Your Journey
- Two people, city and surroundings: the Fabia is compact, has air conditioning and five seats.
- Family or more luggage: the Škoda Octavia Combi has a large boot and comfort for longer journeys.
- Comfort for long journeys, automatic transmission and navigation: Superb Liftback or Superb Combi.
If you want to drive outside the Czech Republic, note that international trips are only possible by prior arrangement and only to EU countries. Roadside assistance is also mandatory for international travel. Our mileage allowance depends on the rental duration and can be found in the details of each vehicle. If you need a car for a longer period, check our long-term rental options. You can also use our other services, such as vehicle delivery in Prague, available by prior arrangement via phone or email.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to carry my passport when driving in Prague?
We recommend carrying an identity document and driving licence. We require both documents when renting a vehicle.
Can I drive in Prague after one beer?
No. The Czech Republic has zero tolerance for alcohol while driving.
Where can I park in the city centre?
In designated paid parking spaces according to the current zone. Always check the signs and information at the parking meter.
Can I drive to another country with the car?
Only to EU countries and only by prior arrangement with the rental company. Roadside assistance is mandatory in such cases.
Booking a Car for Your First Day in Prague
Once you know when you are arriving, select your vehicle and complete the booking. Our office is located at Westfield Černý Most, Chlumecká 765/6, Prague 14. You can also call us on +420 703 149 146 or email [email protected]. Another practical topic is a quick transfer from the airport, which is described in our article Car rental Prague airport transfer.
