Traveling through the heart of Europe requires a clear understanding of the local toll systems. In 2026, the Digital Vignette in the Czech Republic is the only legal way for vehicles up to 3.5 tons to use the motorway network. The days of physical stickers are long gone; the current system is entirely electronic, linked directly to your vehicle’s license plate (VRN), and monitored by a sophisticated network of high-speed cameras. Whether you are a tourist visiting Prague or a transit driver heading to Austria or Poland, this guide provides all the verified information you need to stay compliant and avoid heavy fines.
For a general overview of the system and basic rules, you can always refer back to our home page. However, this section is specifically designed to walk international drivers through the pricing, purchasing process, and 2026 regulations.
Official Pricing for 2026: Standard and Eco Rates
In 2026, the Czech Republic utilizes an automatic valuation mechanism that adjusts toll prices based on inflation and the expansion of the highway network. The system also offers significant “Eco-discounts” to encourage the use of sustainable fuels. Please note that these prices are official and exclude any third-party “service fees” often charged by unauthorized resellers.
Crucial Rule for the 1-Day Vignette: Unlike some other European countries, the Czech 1-day vignette is valid for the calendar day (until midnight, 23:59:59), not for a 24-hour period from the time of purchase. If you buy a 1-day vignette at 8:00 PM, it will expire in only 4 hours. Plan your trip accordingly!
Who Needs a Digital Vignette?
The obligation to pay the time-based toll applies to all motor vehicles with at least four wheels and a maximum permissible weight of 3.5 tons. Motorbikes and trailers are exempt from the toll in the Czech Republic (only the towing vehicle needs a vignette). For vehicles over 3.5 tons (trucks and large motorhomes), a different system called electronic toll (myto) based on distance applies.
Exemptions: EVs and Hydrogen Vehicles
In 2026, the Czech Republic continues to support zero-emission transport. Pure electric vehicles (BEVs) and hydrogen-powered vehicles are fully exempt (0 CZK). However, the process differs based on where your car is registered:
- Czech License Plates (starting with “EL”): These vehicles are automatically exempt. No action is required.
- Foreign License Plates: If your electric car is registered outside the Czech Republic, you must submit a notification of exemption online before using the motorway. Simply owning an EV does not protect you from a fine if your plate is not in the system.
For more details on how to register your foreign EV, check our exemptions guide.
Enforcement and Fines: How the System Watches You
The Czech Republic uses a “check-anytime” digital enforcement strategy. There are two main layers of control:
- Fixed Portal Cameras: High-definition cameras on highway gantries scan every passing plate and cross-reference it with the central database in milliseconds.
- Mobile Units (Argos System): Patrol cars from the Police and Customs Administration are equipped with cameras that can scan plates in moving traffic (even in the opposite direction).
If you are caught without a valid vignette or exemption, the fines are strictly enforced in 2026: up to 5,000 CZK on the spot or up to 20,000 CZK in administrative proceedings. In cases of intentional misuse of exemptions, fines can reach 100,000 CZK.
Step-by-Step Purchase Guide
Buying your vignette online is the recommended way to avoid scams and hidden fees. Follow these steps:
- Visit the official portal (or authorized sales points).
- Select your country of registration and enter your license plate number (VRN) twice for verification.
- Choose the start date (you can buy it up to 30 days in advance).
- Select the fuel type (to see if you qualify for Eco prices).
- Pay via credit/debit card. You will receive a confirmation email with a PDF receipt. Keep this on your phone.
If you prefer buying in person, you can do so at EuroOil gas stations, Czech Post offices, or self-service kiosks at border crossings. For more details, see our article on where to buy a vignette.
Correcting Mistakes: The “15-Minute Rule”
Made a typo? In 2026, the system allows for limited corrections. If you purchased at a physical point of sale, you have 15 minutes to correct the data on the spot. For online purchases, if the validity has not started yet, you can change the VRN or the start date once via the “Manage Vignette” section. If the vignette is already valid, you can only correct up to two characters in the plate number. More info: changing VRN/SPZ.
Practical Tips for International Drivers
- Check Validity: Before you hit the road, use our tool to check vignette validity. It takes 10 seconds and can save you hundreds of euros.
- LPG Vehicles: Note that LPG cars do NOT qualify for Eco-discounts. Only CNG and Biomethane vehicles do.
- Transit: If you are driving from Germany to Poland, a 1-day vignette is usually enough, but remember the “midnight expiry” rule.
For more specific scenarios, such as company cars or rental vehicles, visit our practical information section.
Legal Disclaimer: Information regarding the Czech Digital Vignette system is updated for the year 2026 based on official data from the Ministry of Transport and SFDI. While we strive for 100% accuracy, this content is for informational purposes only. The operator of this website is not a government body and is not responsible for any fines, penalties, or damages resulting from the use of this information. The only legally binding portal for purchase and management is the official eDalnice.cz system.
