The points system in the Czech Republic has recently undergone significant changes.
For drivers, this means only one thing: violations that previously resulted in a fine can now result in an immediate driving ban. One serious mistake is enough to lose your driver’s license for many months.
Motoring media, such as Garaz.cz, are also warning about the tightening of the rules, and this applies to all drivers, regardless of whether they drive their own car or a car from a rental company.
How the points system works today
The basis of the points system remains the same, but its impacts are more noticeable than before:
•a driver starts with 0 points
•2, 4 or 6 points are awarded for violations
•12 points result in the withdrawal of the driver’s license
However, it is now the case that for selected violations it is not necessary to wait for 12 points to be collected – the driving ban can come immediately.
Offenses for which you can lose your driver’s license immediately
🚫 Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is one of the most severely punished offenses.
You risk:
•a large fine
•an immediate driving ban
•6 points
In practice, this often means a long break from driving, regardless of a previous “clean” record.
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🚓 Serious speeding
Exceeding the speed:
•by 40 km/h or more in a municipality
•by 50 km/h or more outside a municipality
is now considered a very dangerous act. In addition to the fine, you are also banned from driving and receive 6 points.
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✋ Failure to comply with a police officer’s summons
Ignoring a summons to stop from a police officer or other authorized person is considered a serious offense. The result may be:
•driving ban
•high penalty
•6 points
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⚠️ Traffic accident with serious consequences
Besides criminal proceedings, causing an accident with serious injury or death also has very severe consequences in the points system. The driver’s license can be revoked for a long time.
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🚗 Driving without a valid driving license
Driving without a valid, suspended or revoked driver’s license significantly worsens the situation and often leads to a further extension of the driving ban.
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How points are erased and how to reduce the risk of losing your driver’s license
The points system also allows for the possibility of “correction”:
•12 months without a point-based offense → deduction of 4 points
•another year without offenses → further reduction of points
•problematic driving for a long time → return to 0 points
In some cases, completing a safe driving course can also help.
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Why it is good to keep an eye on points even when driving a rented car
From the car rental company’s perspective, there is a simple rule:
➡️ Points and driving bans always apply to the driver, not the car.
If you lose your driving license, you cannot drive any vehicle, not even a rented one. Regularly checking your points account and following the rules is therefore worth it for every driver.
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Summary
The new points system in the Czech Republic is significantly stricter than before.
•One serious mistake is enough and a driving ban will follow
•A combination of violations can lead to the loss of your driving license very quickly
•The best prevention is considerate driving and knowledge of the rules