If you are planning to live in the Czech Republic and want to drive, understanding the local rules around driving licences, age limits, the points system, and international licences is essential. This practical guide answers the most common questions people have about driving in Czechia.

Can You Drive in the Czech Republic?

Yes, but the rules depend on where your driving licence was issued and whether you are a resident.

• EU/EEA licences: Fully valid in the Czech Republic, no exchange needed.
• Non-EU licences: Usually valid for a limited time, often together with an International Driving Permit (IDP).
• Residents: Non-EU residents may need to exchange their licence or obtain a Czech one after a certain period.

Minimum Age & Driving School

• 18 years – standard minimum age for cars (Category B)
• 17 years – possible under the L17 programme (driving with a mentor)

You can usually start driving school (autoškola) a few months before turning 18. In larger cities, English-speaking driving schools are available.

How Much Does Driving School Cost?

Prices vary by city and language, but expect approximately:

• CZK 18,000–30,000 for a standard car licence
• Courses in English are usually more expensive

The price typically includes theory, practical lessons and exams. Extra lessons or exam retakes cost extra.

Czech Driving Licence Points System

The Czech Republic uses a penalty points system:

• Drivers start with 0 points
• Traffic offences add 2–7 points
• At 12 points, your driving licence is suspended

Common offences include speeding, mobile phone use while driving and running red lights.

Zero Tolerance for Alcohol

The Czech Republic has a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol and drugs while driving.

• Legal limit: 0.0‰ alcohol
• Even small amounts can lead to fines, points or a driving ban

Practical Driving Rules in Czechia

• Drive on the right-hand side
• Headlights must be on at all times
• Winter tyres required 1 November – 31 March in winter conditions
• Speed limits:

• 50 km/h – towns
• 90 km/h – outside towns
• 130 km/h – highways

Useful Official Resources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, we recommend checking these official sources:

• Ministry of Transport of the Czech Republic – driving licences and regulations
  https://md.gov.cz/zivotni-situace/ridicske-prukazy?lang=en-GB
• European Commission – Driving Licence Rules (EU)
  https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/vehicles/driving-licence

Článek Driving Licence in the Czech Republic: A Practical Guide for Expats se nejdříve objevil na Expat Hub.

What is a Trade License (Živnost)?

A trade license is the official permit that allows you to run a business activity in the Czech Republic. It is required for almost all types of services and freelance work.

There are two main categories:

• Notifiable trades (ohlašovací živnosti) – the most common option.
• Concession trades (koncesované živnosti) – reserved for more sensitive business areas.

Notifiable Trades

1. Free trades (volné živnosti)

• No professional qualification is required.
• Popular among freelancers, consultants, translators, IT specialists, designers, marketing experts, or people selling goods and services.
• For many expats, this is the easiest way to start working independently.

2. Craft trades (řemeslné živnosti)

• Based on a specific skill or craft.
• You usually need to prove vocational training, experience, or a certificate.
• Examples: carpentry, plumbing, hairdressing, bakery, car mechanics.
• If your qualification was obtained abroad, it often has to be recognized in the Czech Republic.

3. Regulated trades (vázané živnosti)

• For activities where the state requires special authorization or knowledge.
• Examples: accounting services, driving schools, real estate agents, or running a travel agency.
• These trades often involve submitting additional documents or approvals.

You can find the official list of all types of trades on the Czech Trade Licensing Register (RŽP)

Concession Trades

• Concessions apply to activities with higher legal or safety risks. They require explicit approval from authorities before you can start.
• Here the state may require you to prove that you have specific facilities, equipment, or agreements in place (e.g. a cooling facility for funeral services, vehicles that meet safety standards for passenger transport, or certified storage for hazardous materials).
• Examples include: passenger transport, private security services, production of alcohol or weapons.
• The process is more demanding and can take longer.

Conditions for Expats

Foreigners can apply for a trade license, but the requirements depend on their nationality and residence status:

• EU citizens can usually register under the same conditions as Czech nationals.
• Non-EU citizens must have a visa or residence permit that allows self-employment.

In addition to this, all applicants need to prove a clean criminal record and a legal address in the Czech Republic.

Why It Can Be Challenging

The system is not always straightforward:

• Forms and documents are in Czech.
• Some professions require recognition of foreign qualifications.
• Different types of trades mean different rules.
• Offices may require official translations or additional confirmations.

For many expats, this process can be time-consuming and confusing – especially if they don’t speak Czech or don’t know exactly which type of license they need.

Expat-Friendly Solution

Instead of navigating Czech bureaucracy on your own, you can rely on a local partner. At ExpatHub, we help foreigners:

• Choose the right type of trade license for their activity.
• Handle all communication with authorities.
• Prepare and submit the required documents.
• Make sure their residence status matches their business plans.

This way, you can focus on growing your business while we take care of the paperwork.

Conclusion

A Czech trade license (živnost) is a great way for expats to work independently, but the rules can be complex. Whether you’re planning to freelance, open a small business, or compare options with setting up a company, the safest approach is to get professional guidance.

Thinking about starting a business in Czechia? Contact ExpatHub and let us handle the process for you.

Článek Doing Business in the Czech Republic: Trade Licenses for Foreigners se nejdříve objevil na Expat Hub.

Prague Parking Zones Explained

Prague is divided into several paid parking zones, each marked by color. Before leaving your car, always check the street signs for exact rules.

• Blue Zone (Residential Parking in Prague)
  • Reserved mainly for residents with a permit.
  • However, non-residents can also park here for a limited time (usually up to 3 hours) if they pay through a parking machine or mobile app.
• Purple Zone (Mixed Parking in Prague)
  • Available for both residents and visitors.
  • You can park here short-term (up to 24 hours).
  • Payment is required through a parking meter or mobile app.
• Orange Zone (Short-Term Parking in Prague)
  • Designed for short stays in the city center.
  • Parking is usually limited to 2–3 hours.
  • Ideal for quick errands or meetings.

Tip for expats: If you plan to live in Prague, check with your district office about a residential parking permit.

Best to pay via apps

You don’t need coins, paper tickets, or to search for parking machines anymore. The easiest way to pay is with a Prague parking app. Here are the most recommended ones:

• PID Lítačka
  Originally known for public transport tickets, PID Lítačka now also allows you to pay for parking directly in the app. A great all-in-one solution for daily commuting and parking.
• MPLA.IO
  A popular app across the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Offers fast payments without registration, reminders before your parking expires, and the option to extend time remotely. Works with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and all major cards.
• Citymove
  A smart mobility app combining parking, public transport navigation, bike and car sharing, charging stations, and garage payments. Ideal if you want one app for all your transport needs in Prague.
• Moje Praha
  The official app of the City of Prague. Provides interactive maps of parking zones and other city services. In some locations, it even supports automated Park & Ride payments using license plate recognition.
• Easy Park
  It allows you to easily find available parking spots, start and stop your parking session directly from your phone, and pay securely without cash or tickets.
• Mr. Parkit
  An app that lets you reserve parking spots in parking houses and garages in advance. It’s ideal for expats who want guaranteed, secure parking without the stress of searching on the streets.

Park & Ride in Prague

If you are commuting or don’t want to drive into the city center, use the official Park & Ride Prague (P+R) system.

• Located at metro stations on the outskirts of Prague.
• Cost: 50 / 100 CZK per day.
• Perfect if you want to park cheaply and continue your journey by metro or tram.

  List of Park & Ride Prague Lots:  https://parking.praha.eu/en/parking-options-in-prague/pr-park-ride/

Garages and shopping centers

In the center of Prague, it is worth using underground garages (e.g., Palladium, Kotva, National Theater, Rudolfinum). Price: CZK 60–120/hour.

• Shopping centers often offer the first hour free of charge:
  o Centrum Chodov, Arkády Pankrác, Westfield Zličín – 3 hours free of charge.
  o In the city center (e.g., Palladium), usually 1 hour free.

Towage and fines

• Has your car disappeared? In 98% of cases, it has been towed away, not stolen.
• The cost of towing depends on the type of tow, but starts at around CZK 2,500.
• Watch out for yellow lines, crosswalks, tram tracks, and sidewalks.
• Cars with cameras drive around Prague, checking for payment based on license plate numbers.

Practical Parking Tips for Expats

• Always check street signs — even within one street, zones may change.
• Use apps for Prague parking instead of looking for machines.
• Never park on sidewalks, tram tracks, or outside marked areas — fines are high.
• For long-term expats: apply for a residential parking permit – we can help you with that!

Článek Parking in Prague: Guide to Parking Zones, Apps, and Tips se nejdříve objevil na Expat Hub.

If you’re applying for a job in the Czech Republic, your CV needs to be clear, specific, and professional. Employers often reject CVs that are messy, vague, or hard to understand. Here’s what to avoid – and what to do instead:

Common mistakes:

• Spelling and grammar issues – Errors like wrong spellings look careless. Always proofread.
• No clear structure – All information should be organized into sections: personal info, work history, education, skills, certificates, languages.
• Vague job descriptions –Write where you worked, when, and what your responsibilities were.
• Missing language levels – Use CEFR levels (e.g. B1, C1) to describe your English, French, or other languages.
• Foreign text without translation – If your CV includes French or another language (e.g. certificates), add a short English explanation.
• Generic or repeated phrases – Avoid empty statements like “team player” or repeating “inventory management” with no details.

What to do instead:

• Adapt your CV to the job – Use different versions for different roles (e.g. logistics vs. healthcare), and highlight relevant skills.
• Use clean formatting – Make your CV easy to read: clear sections, consistent layout, no spelling or punctuation errors.
• Be concrete – Instead of soft skills, describe real experience.
• Explain non-English elements
• Write a motivation letter – This is important for expats. Explain why you want to work in Czechia, and why the employer should choose you.

Your CV is more than just a document – it’s your personal introduction. Make it count, and doors in Czechia will start to open.

Článek What the Right CV Should Look Like se nejdříve objevil na Expat Hub.

City Hall / Municipal Office

Every city or town has either a city hall (magistrát) or a municipal office (obecní úřad). Here, you can take care of:

• Registering your permanent residence
• Officially verifying signatures and documents
• Getting residential parking permits
• Applying for a trade license (the Trade Licensing Office is usually part of the municipal office)
• Applying for a Czech ID card or passport (if you have permanent residence)

Note: If you’re a non-EU citizen, some of these services only apply if you have long-term or permanent residency.

Registry Office (Matrika)

The registry office is typically located within the municipal office. You’ll need to go here for:

• Registering the birth of a child – obtaining a Czech birth certificate
• Marriage ceremonies – civil or religious
• Reporting a death – getting a death certificate
• Changing your name or surname
• Getting official copies or extracts from Czech registers (needed for international use)

Czech Social Security Administration (ČSSZ)

This is the institution that manages social insurance. You can handle the following:

• Registering for social insurance (especially if you’re self-employed)
• Requesting confirmation of your pension insurance history
• Applying for a pension
• Sick leave and maternity benefits
• Getting statements about your contributions

If you’re employed, your employer usually handles these for you. But if you’re self-employed, it’s your responsibility.

Labour Office (Úřad práce)

At the Labour Office, you can deal with:

• Registering as unemployed
• Applying for unemployment benefits
• Housing support and other social benefits
• Career counseling and job search support
• Enrolling in retraining courses

Some benefits may be available to foreigners depending on your residence status and how long you’ve been in the country.

Financial Office (Finanční úřad)

This office handles everything related to taxes:

• Filing your tax return
• Getting a tax identification number (DIČ)
• Information on tax deductions and obligations
• Support for freelancers and small business owners

If you’re employed, your employer usually handles your income tax. But if you freelance or have other income, you must file taxes yourself.

Immigration Authorities – Foreign Police & MOI

For non-EU citizens, immigration matters are handled by:

• Foreign Police – reporting changes of residence, arrival registration
• Ministry of the Interior (OAMP office) – applying for or renewing residence permits, collecting biometric cards, updating address

Health Insurance Companies

In the Czech Republic, everyone must have health insurance. The largest public provider is VZP, but there are others too (e.g., OZP, ZPMV, etc.).

At a health insurance office, you can:

• Register for public health insurance
• Switch insurance providers
• Get confirmation of coverage
• Enroll your newborn baby into the system

Final Tip

If you’re unsure which office to contact, your best bet is to call your local municipal office or check their official website. Many public websites now offer information in English or provide services for foreigners.

• Labour Office (Úřad práce): https://www.uradprace.cz/en/
• Czech Social Security Administration (ČSSZ): https://www.cssz.cz/web/lang?lang=en
• Financial Office (Finanční úřad): https://financnisprava.gov.cz/en/index

Článek Guide to Public Institutions in the Czech Republic se nejdříve objevil na Expat Hub.

1. Svíčková

Svíčková is one of the most beloved Czech dishes. It consists of slow-cooked marinated beef, typically sirloin, served with a creamy vegetable sauce made from root vegetables, heavy cream, and spices. The dish is traditionally accompanied by bread dumplings (houskové knedlíky) and garnished with cranberries, a slice of lemon, and a dollop of whipped cream

2. Vepřo knedlo zelo

This classic dish embodies the heart of Czech cuisine. It consists of slow-roasted pork (vepřo), usually seasoned with garlic and caraway seeds, served with sauerkraut (zelo) and bread dumplings (knedlo). The dish’s origins trace back to medieval times when roasted meats were a staple in Central European cuisine. Variations include using red cabbage instead of white sauerkraut or adding different types of dumplings.

3. Bramboráky

Bramboráky are crispy, golden-brown potato pancakes made from grated potatoes, garlic, marjoram, flour, and eggs, then fried to perfection. They are similar to latkes or rösti but have a distinct Czech flavor due to the addition of marjoram. While they are often enjoyed on their own with sour cream or garlic dip, some variations include adding smoked meat or cheese. Bramboráky are commonly found at street markets, festivals, and as a side dish in traditional Czech meals.

4. Kynuté ovocné knedlíky

These delightful dumplings are a sweet treat in Czech cuisine. Made from yeasted dough, they are filled with seasonal fruit such as plums, apricots, or strawberries. Once boiled, they are topped with melted butter, powdered sugar, and sometimes grated quark cheese. Some versions use potato dough instead of yeast dough, resulting in a slightly different texture.

5. Obložené chlebíčky

Obložené chlebíčky are a staple of Czech social gatherings and celebrations. These open-faced sandwiches are made with fresh baguette-style bread and topped with a variety of ingredients, such as ham, cheese, eggs, pickles, and mayonnaise-based salads. The combination of flavors and the colorful presentation make them an essential part of Czech cuisine. They became popular in the early 20th century and remain a common snack at parties, bakeries, and cafés across the country.

Conclusion

Czech cuisine is full of rich flavors and comforting meals that tell a story of tradition and heritage. Whether you try a hearty plate of svíčková, crispy bramboráky, or the delicate sweetness of fruit dumplings, each dish offers a taste of Czech culture. So, the next time you visit the Czech Republic, be sure to indulge in these culinary delights!

We also love to share recommendations for great restaurants specializing in Czech cuisine, whether in its traditional or modern form.

• https://kuchyn.ambi.cz/
• https://www.umateje1.cz/
• https://www.uveverky.com/
• https://lokal-dlouha.ambi.cz/cz/

Článek 5 Traditional Czech Dishes You Must Try se nejdříve objevil na Expat Hub.

Phrases that might be useful when:

Greetings and Politeness:

• Dobrý den! (Dob-reeh den)– “Hello” (Formal greeting used during the day – used when I’m around people I don’t know or I’m somewhere for the first time)
• Ahoj! (Ah-hoy)– “Hi!” (Informal greeting between friends)
• Na shledanou! (Nah skleh-dah-noh) – “Goodbye!” (Formal farewell)
• Děkuji! (Dyeh-koo-yee) – “Thank you!”
• Prosím (Proh-seem) – “Please” / “You’re welcome”

Shopping

• Kolik to stojí? (Koh-lik toh stoh-yee?) – “How much does it cost?”
• Mohu platit kartou? (Moh-hoo plah-teet kar-tou?) – “Can I pay by card?”
• Máte to v jiné velikosti/barvě? (Mah-teh toh v yih-neh veh-lee-koh-stee / bar-vyeh?)– “Do you have this in another size/color?”
• Kde najdu [produkt]? (Kdeh nyeye-doo [produkt]?) – “Where can I find [product]?”

In a Restaurant

• Mohu si objednat? (Moh-hoo si ob-yehd-naht?) – “Can I order?”
• Dám si [jídlo/nápoj]. (Dahm si [yeed-loh / nah-poy].) – “I’ll have [food/drink].”
• Účet, prosím. (Oo-chet, proh-seem.) – “The bill, please.”
• Máte vegetariánské možnosti? (Mah-teh veh-geh-tah-ree-ahn-skeh mohzh-nos-tee?)– “Do you have vegetarian options?”

Getting around the City

• Kde je nejbližší zastávka? (Kdeh yeh ney-bli-zhee za-stahv-kah?) – “Where is the nearest stop?” (For public transport)
• Můžete mi pomoci? (Moo-zheh-teh mi poh-moh-tsi?) – “Can you help me?”
• Mluvíte anglicky? (Mluhvee-teh an-glits-ki?) – “Do you speak English?”

Final Tips

Mastering these essential Czech phrases will help you feel more comfortable in everyday situations and enhance your communication with locals. For further learning, you can explore online resources such as video lessons and interactive exercises.

Článek Czech Language for Beginners: Essential Phrases You Need to Know se nejdříve objevil na Expat Hub.

The story of soft contact lenses begins in the 1960s with Otto Wichterle, a brilliant Czech scientist and chemist. Wichterle was driven by a vision to improve vision care for people around the world. He believed that rigid, uncomfortable contact lenses were not the solution. His groundbreaking work led to the invention of the first soft, hydrogel contact lenses, revolutionizing the field of optometry.

Wichterle developed the first soft lenses using a hydrogel material that allowed oxygen to pass through to the eye. That made the lenses much more comfortable than the rigid lenses available at the time. Using a homemade device built from a children’s toy set, a bicycle dynamo, and a motor, Wichterle crafted the first soft lenses right at his kitchen table.

After successful trials, Wichterle’s invention quickly attracted attention, and eventually, soft contact lenses became the industry standard worldwide.

Stay tuned for more Made in Czechia stories about Czech inventions and discoveries!

Článek Made in Czechia#2: Did You Know Soft Contact Lenses Were Invented by a Czech Scientist? se nejdříve objevil na Expat Hub.

Who Are Mikuláš, Anděl, and Čert?

Mikuláš, dressed as a bishop with a staff and mitre, symbolizes kindness and wisdom. The angel, a
figure of purity and hope, contrasts with the devil, who rattles chains and wields a sack, adding a
touch of fun-filled fear. Together, they represent the balance of good and bad, encouraging children
to reflect on their actions throughout the year.

The Tradition in Action

Families invite the trio into their homes, where children nervously or excitedly recite poems or sing
songs to earn their reward. Mikuláš hands out nuts, fruits, and candies to well-behaved children,
while the devil might deliver a piece of coal or a potato as a playful warning for those who’ve been
naughty. In towns and cities, public squares host lively Mikuláš events, bringing the tradition to life
for all to enjoy.

A Unique Start to the Holiday Season

Rooted in Christian folklore and Czech culture, Mikuláš is a cherished way to usher in the festive
season. It’s a time for families to come together, celebrate, and instill values of kindness and
reflection in children. For expats and visitors, participating in Mikuláš offers an unforgettable glimpse
into the warmth and humor of Czech traditions.

Tips for Expats and Visitors

If you’re an expat in the Czech Republic or just visiting during December, here’s how you can
embrace the tradition:

• Participate in Public Events: Look for Mikuláš events in your local area. These are great for families and offer a welcoming introduction to the tradition.
• Mikuláš Home: Some families hire actors or friends to play Mikuláš, Anděl, and Čert for a more personalized experience. If you have children, this can be a memorable way to introduce them to Czech culture.
• Learn a Czech Poem: If your children want to impress Mikuláš, helping them learn a short Czech poem or song adds to the authenticity of the experience.

Článek Czech Traditions #2: Mikuláš, Anděl, and Čert – A Beloved Czech Festivity se nejdříve objevil na Expat Hub.

1. Security Deposit

Landlords usually require a security deposit (commonly referred to as a “kauce”) equivalent to one to three months’ rent. This serves as a safeguard for any damage to the property or unpaid rent.

Tip: Always inspect the apartment carefully before moving in and ensure a detailed inventory or handover protocol is signed. This can prevent disputes when your lease ends.

2. Lease Duration

Rental agreements are generally offered for a fixed term or open-ended duration:

• Fixed-term lease: Has a defined end date (e.g., one year) and can often be renewed.
• Open-ended lease: More flexible, lasting until terminated by either party.

If you’re uncertain about how long you’ll stay, aim for an open-ended lease or confirm that a fixed-term agreement can be easily extended.

3. Notice Periods

The notice period depends on your lease type and legal terms:

• For open-ended leases, the standard notice period is three months.
• For fixed-term leases, early termination without a valid reason may not be possible.

Check the lease agreement’s termination terms carefully to avoid surprises.

4. What’s Included in the Lease Agreement

A good rental contract should clearly outline

• Details of both parties (tenant and landlord)
• Property address
• Monthly rent amount and due date
• Security deposit amount
• List of utilities and service charges
• Conditions for terminating the lease
• Responsibilities for repairs and maintenance

If certain details are missing, ask the landlord for clarification or consult a professional before signing.

5. Additional Costs

Rent often excludes certain additional expenses. Be prepared for:

• Utilities (electricity, gas): Usually managed by the tenant, requiring separate contracts with suppliers.
• Water and waste collection: Typically included in monthly service charges but verify this.
• Internet and TV: Tenants generally arrange and pay for these independently.
• Building maintenance fees: Contributions for communal upkeep may be included in the monthly charges.

6. Apartment Condition and Inventory

Before signing, review:

• The apartment’s condition: Check windows, doors, appliances, and overall maintenance.
• Inventory list: If the property is furnished, ensure an accurate list of items is included in the agreement.

Tip: Always take photographic documentation of any damage and don’t be afraid to bring any damage or problems to the owner’s attention.

7. Legal Considerations

Rental agreements in the Czech Republic are governed by the Civil Code. For expats, it’s crucial to:

• Obtain a contract in a language you understand (or have it translated).
• Keep a record of all written communication with the landlord.

Summary

Renting in the Czech Republic can be straightforward with proper preparation. Be aware of the security deposit, lease terms, notice periods, and additional costs. By understanding the process and maintaining open communication with your landlord, you can enjoy a hassle-free rental experience.

Need more help or advice on finding a place to live? Reach out to us! ExpatHub.cz is here to make your life in the Czech Republic easier.

Článek Housing in the Czech Republic: house rental – What do you need to know se nejdříve objevil na Expat Hub.