FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about the Czech Electronic Vignette (2026)

Navigating foreign toll systems can be tricky. Below are the most frequently asked questions and expert answers regarding the Czech electronic vignette (e-vignette). For a complete overview of prices and rules, please visit our Digital Vignette 2026 guide.

Can I start driving immediately after paying?

It depends on your payment method. If you pay by credit or debit card and choose “immediate validity,” the vignette is usually active within minutes. However, you are legally required to wait for the confirmation email before entering a tolled motorway. In 2026, camera systems (OCR) are nearly 100% efficient, so entering even a few minutes before activation can trigger a fine.

What happens if I pay by bank transfer?

Bank transfers are not immediate. It typically takes 2–3 business days for the payment to be matched in the system. Your vignette will only become valid once the payment is credited. If you are already on the road or planning to travel today, we strongly recommend using a card payment for instant activation.

How long is the 1-day vignette valid?

This is a common trap for tourists! The 1-day vignette is valid until 23:59:59 (midnight) of the day you selected. It is not valid for 24 hours from the time of purchase. If you buy it at 10:00 PM, it will expire in just two hours. For transit trips spanning two days, consider a 10-day vignette instead.

Is the vignette transferable if I sell my car?

No. The electronic vignette is strictly tied to the vehicle’s registration number (License Plate). It cannot be moved to a different car. If you sell your car, the vignette stays with it and the new owner benefits from the remaining validity. Conversely, if you buy a new car, you must purchase a new vignette for it.

What if I made a typo in my license plate (VRN)?

In 2026, the system allows for limited corrections. If the vignette has already started, you can correct up to two characters of the license plate once. If the vignette has not yet started (delayed validity), you can change the plate number entirely. To make these changes, you will need the Authorization Code found on your receipt.

Can I get a refund if I change my mind?

Generally, no. Once the vignette is valid, refunds are not possible due to a change in travel plans. Refunds are only granted in very specific cases, such as accidental duplicate purchases for the same vehicle or if the license plate entered does not exist in any registry. For more on this, see our refunds and claims section.

Are electric vehicles (EVs) really free?

Yes, but there is a process. Vehicles powered by electricity or hydrogen (0g CO2/km) are exempt from the toll.

Czech plates: Exemption is automatic (if they start with “EL”).
Foreign plates: You must file a “Notification of Exemption” online before your trip. Simply having an electric car is not enough to avoid a fine if your plate is not registered in the Czech exemption database.

What if I accidentally buy two overlapping vignettes?

Don’t worry. If you purchase a new vignette for a vehicle that already has an active one, the system usually appends the validity. For example, if your old annual vignette expires on July 1st and you buy a new one, the new one will automatically start on July 2nd. This prevents any loss of paid time.

Is my trailer included in the vignette?

Yes. In the Czech Republic, the vignette is only required for the motor vehicle (up to 3.5 tons). Trailers and caravans do not require an additional vignette or extra fee, regardless of the total weight of the assembly, as long as the towing vehicle itself is under 3.5 tons.

Still have questions?

If your specific situation isn’t covered here, check our detailed guide on fines and camera checks or visit the practical information page for transit-specific tips.

Disclaimer: This FAQ is based on the 2026 regulations for the Czech electronic toll system. While we aim for absolute accuracy, rules can be updated by the Ministry of Transport. Always verify your specific status in the official eDalnice.cz database before traveling.

Často kladené otázky

Can I pay for the Czech vignette in Euros (EUR)?

When purchasing online, the price is set in Czech Koruna (CZK). If you pay by credit or debit card, your bank will automatically convert the amount to your local currency (EUR, USD, etc.) based on their current exchange rate. If you buy the vignette at a physical point like a gas station, you can often pay in cash with Euros, but the exchange rate may be less favorable than paying by card.

I haven’t received my confirmation email. Is my vignette valid?

Yes, your vignette is valid from the moment the payment is registered in the system, even if the email is delayed. First, check your spam folder. If you still can’t find it, you can verify your status on the official website by entering your license plate number. If the system shows ‘Active’ or ‘Valid,’ you are safe to use the motorway.

Do I need an invoice for my company's tax records?

The payment confirmation you receive via email serves as a simplified tax document. Note that the Czech highway vignette is a public fee, not a taxable supply, so it is issued with 0% VAT. This document is sufficient for corporate accounting as a deductible expense in most EU countries.

What should I do if I entered the wrong email address during purchase?

If you entered a wrong email but your license plate and payment were correct, your vignette is still valid in the system. To get your confirmation, you can use the ‘Vignette Management’ tool on the official website. You will need your license plate and the authorization code (which is also on the payment receipt if you bought it at a gas station). If you have neither, contact the official support of eDalnice.cz.