Czech Vehicle Registration Process

1. Process Of Vehicle Registration In The Czech Republic
2. Registering An Imported Car In The Czech Republic
3. Licenses & Driving In The Czech Republic
4. Czech Vehicle Registration Resources

Process Of Vehicle Registration In The Czech Republic

Whether you’re importing a new or used vehicle, there are some important things to know about licensing, registering and operating a vehicle in the Czech Republic. On this page, you’ll find that information, as well as some helpful resources at the bottom of the page. As always, we encourage readers to contact us if they have questions.

A roadworthiness test is given to each vehicle that changes owners in the Czech Republic (for the most part). The roadworthiness test does not applyto new vehicles that are imported into the country and registered. Used vehicles that are brought into the country must undergo a roadworthiness test as part of the registration process.

The test itself is basically a simplified check up on the operability of the vehicle. It includes things like inspection of brakes, windshield, axels and tires, emissions, and leaks. For used vehicles, the roadworthiness test must be retaken every two years while in the country.

Vehicles that are imported temporarily may remain in the country for a period of up to one year and do not have to meet the criteria of the registration process until.

Registering An Imported Car In The Czech Republic

The following are the steps you’ll need to take in order to register a car that has been shipped or hauled to the Czech Republic from another country.

New Vehicles - The process of registering a new vehicle is somewhat simpler than registering a used vehicle (see below). The following documents will be required to register an imported vehicle in the Czech Republic:

• Certificate of conformity/harmonization for EU
• Valid insurance coverage
• Proof of payment for VAT (value added tax)
• Proof of residence permit

Used Vehicles - There are a few more steps involved in registering a used vehicle, largely due to the requirement of the roadworthiness test.

• Current registration information
• Proof payment for VAT
• Certificate of roadworthiness
• Registration verification
• Proof of residence
• Technical certification document

For readers interested in shipping a vehicle to the Czech Republic, you can find more information on our international shipping page for the country. There, you can find information about expected costs, required documents, and import taxes. 

Licenses & Driving In The Czech Republic

Getting a license in the Czech Republic is done two different ways, depending on how long you plan on staying in the country. If you’re a U.S. resident with a valid license, you can get an international driving permit that allows you to drive in the Czech Republic.

If you plan on staying for a year or more, or becoming a permanent resident, you’ll need to get a local license within your first three months in the country. This includes a driver competency test in addition to the standard application forms and processing.

Czech Vehicle Registration Resources

US Embassy To The Czech Republic - Information for U.S. citizens operating a vehicle in the Czech Republic, including licensing and getting a local driver’s license.

Driving In The Czech Republic - A good general resource about driving in the Czech Republic that covers topics like alcohol limits (it is zero), rules of the road and much more.