What is the Czech e-vignette in 2026?
The electronic vignette (Czech: elektronická dálniční známka) is a fee for using motorways. In 2026, the Czech Republic definitively abandoned the paper form. Currently, each fee is linked to the vehicle's registration number in the central database of the State Transport Infrastructure Fund (SFDI).
The system operates automatically. This means that after purchasing online on platforms such as Winiety24.eu, your vehicle is automatically "visible" to control systems. You don't need to print anything or stick it on the windshield. The digital proof of purchase in PDF format, which you will receive by e-mail, is a document confirming the transaction, but while driving, monitoring systems rely solely on your license plates.
Vignette Prices in the Czech Republic – Official Price List 2026
The year 2026 brought the consolidation of a new fee structure, where the one-day vignette plays a key role. Below is a summary of costs for passenger cars with a total weight of up to 3.5 tonnes:
| Vignette Type | Validity in 2026 | Price in CZK | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 day | Until 23:59 on the day of purchase | 200 CZK | Transit (e.g., driving to Croatia one way) |
| 10 days | 10 calendar days | 270 CZK | Holidays, short vacation or weekend in Prague |
| 30 days | 30 calendar days | 430 CZK | Long holidays or intensive business trips |
| 365 days (year) | Full 12 months | 2300 CZK | For people regularly visiting the Czech Republic |
Note: The 1-day vignette in the Czech Republic, unlike in some other countries, expires at midnight on the day indicated during purchase, and not 24 hours from the time of payment.
Control Rules and ANPR Camera System
The control system in the Czech Republic is one of the most modern in Europe. Hundreds of gantry frames equipped with ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras have been installed on motorways. This system continuously compares the license plates of passing cars with the database of paid vignettes.
In addition to stationary control, unmarked Czech police patrol cars and Customs Administration vehicles operate on the roads. Officers have tablets with direct access to the database. If a camera in a patrol car detects a vehicle without a vignette, the patrol immediately stops the driver. An on-the-spot fine can be up to 5,000 CZK, however, a case referred to administrative proceedings can result in a penalty of up to **20,000 CZK** (approx. 3600 PLN).
Exemptions for Electric and Hybrid Cars (EV)
In 2026, the Czech Republic continues its policy of supporting electromobility, but the exemption rules have become more stringent. Electric and hydrogen cars registered in Poland can use motorways for free, but **this does not happen automatically**.
The vehicle owner must submit an official notification (Oznámení osvobození). This requires filling out an online form and attaching a scan of the vehicle registration certificate. It is important to submit the notification at least a few days before travel, as merely having green license plates does not exempt you from the fee – the entry in the Czech electronic system is decisive.
Vehicles Exempt from Vignette "Ex Officio"
Good news for travelers: here is a list of vehicles that do not need a vignette in the Czech Republic in 2026 at all:
- Motorcycles: Two-wheelers can travel on all Czech motorways completely free of charge.
- Trailers: In the case of a combination (passenger car + trailer), the fee is paid only for the car. A caravan or light trailer does not require an additional vignette (unlike, for example, in Switzerland or Hungary).
- Vehicles transporting disabled persons: This primarily concerns Czech citizens holding local ZTP/P cards. Polish parking cards do not always automatically entitle to exemption – caution is advised, and purchasing a vignette is recommended.
Toll-Free Motorway Sections – Where Do We Not Pay?
Not every expressway in the Czech Republic requires a vignette. Some sections are marked with "BEZ POPLATKU" (with a crossed-out vignette symbol) signs. The most important exceptions in 2026 include:
- D1 Gorzyczki – Ostrava: Polish drivers entering from the A1 can reach Ostrava without charge. A vignette is only necessary from the Ostrava-Rudná junction towards Brno.
- City bypasses: Some bypasses around large urban areas, such as Prague or Brno, are exempt from tolls to relieve local traffic. However, one should always carefully observe road signs.
How to Safely Buy an Online Vignette?
To avoid fraud and excessive commissions, in 2026 you should only use authorized sales channels. By choosing Winiety24.eu, you gain several key benefits:
- No waiting period: Your vignette is active almost immediately after payment (usually within 15 minutes).
- Polish payment methods: You can pay conveniently via BLIK, fast online transfer, or payment card without expensive currency conversion in the bank.
- Support and invoice: As one of the few, we issue Polish VAT invoices, which is crucial for entrepreneurs. We also offer technical support in Polish in case of errors when entering the license plate number.
Most Frequent Driver Questions (FAQ)
Is the 1-day vignette valid for 24 hours?
No. The Czech one-day vignette is valid from the moment of purchase (or from 00:00 on the selected day) until 23:59 on the same calendar day.
Do I need to print the e-vignette purchase confirmation?
There is no such obligation. Control is carried out by license plate number. However, we recommend keeping the PDF file on your phone in case of IT system failures of the police.
I made a mistake in the license plate number. What should I do?
In the official edalnice.cz system, you have a limited time to correct the data (usually before the vignette's validity begins). If you bought a vignette on Winiety24.eu, contact our customer service – we will help you correct the data with the operator.