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Low Emission Zones in the Czech Republic

2 Low Emission Zones

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Overview

The Czech Republic operates two emission zones in Prague, the capital city. These zones restrict access primarily for heavy goods vehicles and buses, aiming to reduce air pollution and noise in the city centre. Prague Zone 1 covers the historic core, while Zone 2 extends to a wider area of the city.

The zones have been in place since the early 2000s and were significantly tightened in July 2022, when the minimum Euro standard was raised from Euro 4 to Euro 6 for affected vehicle categories. Prague has also announced plans to tighten taxi vehicle requirements to Euro 6d from August 2027.

Regulations

Prague's emission zones primarily target heavy commercial vehicles and buses rather than passenger cars. The specific rules differ between the two zones:

Zone 1 (city centre): Heavy goods vehicles over 3.5 tonnes require Euro 6 and are only permitted Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 18:00. Buses and coaches require Euro 6 with no time restrictions.

Zone 2 (wider city area): Heavy goods vehicles over 6 tonnes require Euro 6 with no time restrictions. Buses are not separately restricted in this zone.

Passenger cars are not currently restricted by the emission zones. Electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles are exempt. Exemptions may be granted for essential services and residents under certain conditions.

Who must comply

The Prague emission zones apply specifically to heavy commercial vehicles and buses. Passenger cars and light vehicles are not affected.

Zones — 2

Prague Zone 1 (Praha 1)
Prague Zone 1 (Praha 1)
Prague Zone 2 (Praha 1+2)
Prague Zone 2 (Praha 1+2)

Frequently asked questions

Are passenger cars restricted in Prague's emission zones?
No. Prague's emission zones currently apply only to heavy goods vehicles over 3.5 or 6 tonnes (depending on the zone) and buses/coaches. Passenger cars, vans, and motorcycles can enter without emission restrictions.
When were the Prague emission zones tightened to Euro 6?
The minimum Euro standard was raised from Euro 4 to Euro 6 in July 2022. This applies to both Zone 1 and Zone 2 for the relevant vehicle categories.
Do I need a sticker or registration for Prague's emission zones?
Prague does not use an emissions sticker system like Germany. Compliance is determined by the vehicle's registration documents and Euro emission standard. There is no pre-registration requirement for foreign vehicles.
What are the time restrictions in Prague Zone 1?
Heavy trucks over 3.5 tonnes in Zone 1 are restricted Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 18:00. Buses and coaches in Zone 1 are restricted at all times. Outside these hours, trucks may transit through Zone 1.
Is Prague planning to expand emission restrictions to passenger cars?
Prague has tightened requirements for taxi vehicles, requiring Euro 6d from August 2027. While no general passenger car emission zone has been announced, the city is actively working on air quality improvements and regulations may evolve.

Check your vehicle compliance

Use our API to instantly verify if your heavy vehicle or bus can enter Prague's two emission zones.

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