Czechia vs Japan: Driving Rules Compared

Czechia enforces one of the strictest alcohol rules in this series, a flat zero blood-alcohol limit, while Japan allows up to 0.03. The two also disagree on which side of the road to use, right-hand in Czechia and left-hand in Japan, and motorways add a further gap, 130 km/h against 100.

Switching between Czechia (right-hand traffic) and Japan (left-hand traffic) requires significant adjustment. Pay special attention to turning, roundabouts, and overtaking — these are the situations where drivers most commonly make errors after switching sides.

💡 Try it yourself: Speeding Fine Calculator 2026 — it covers Japan (not yet Czechia), free.

Speed Limits Comparison

Speed limits differ between Czechia and Japan, and understanding these differences is essential for avoiding fines.

In Czechia, the standard speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 130 km/h (130 km/h general limit; 150 km/h pilot on D3 motorway since October 2025 (variable speed signs, conditions permitting)) on motorways.

Japan sets its speed limits at 40 km/h in cities and towns, 60 km/h on country roads, and 100 km/h (100 km/h standard; 120 km/h on select expressway sections (Shin-Tomei, Tohoku, Joban). From Sept 2026, narrow residential roads default to 30 km/h) on motorways.

Key Speed Limit Differences

Always check posted speed signs when crossing between Czechia and Japan. Relying on your knowledge of one country’s limits while driving in the other is a common cause of speeding fines for tourists.

Traffic Rules and Regulations

Beyond speed limits, Czechia and Japan have several important differences in their general traffic rules.

Driving side: Czechia drives on the right; Japan drives on the left. This is a major difference that requires careful adjustment.

Minimum driving age: The minimum age to drive a car is N/A in Czechia and 18 in Japan.

Mobile phone use: Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal in both countries. In Czechia, the penalty is CZK 2,500-5,000 (approx. EUR 100-200) + 4 points. In Japan, the penalty is JPY 18,000 (approx. EUR 115) + 3 points. Hands-free devices are generally permitted in both countries, but drivers should keep their attention on the road.

Seatbelts: Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants in both Czechia and Japan. The fine for not wearing a seatbelt is CZK 2,000 (approx. EUR 80) + 3 points in Czechia and Warning / 1 point (no fine for first offence) in Japan.

Running a red light: Red-light violations carry serious penalties. In Czechia, expect CZK 5,000-10,000 (approx. EUR 200-400) + 5 points. In Japan, the penalty is JPY 9,000 (approx. EUR 55) + 2 points.

Alcohol and DUI Laws

Alcohol and driving regulations differ between Czechia and Japan, and the penalties for non-compliance can be severe in both.

Czechia sets its blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit at 0.00% (zero tolerance).

Japan has a BAC limit of 0.03%.

The lower limit in Czechia means that even a small amount of alcohol could put you over the legal limit. Adjust your behaviour accordingly.

In both countries, penalties for drink-driving include fines, licence suspension, and potential imprisonment for serious offences. New and young drivers often face stricter limits (typically 0.00% to 0.02% BAC) in both Czechia and Japan. The safest approach is always to avoid any alcohol before driving.

Tyre and Equipment Requirements

Vehicle equipment requirements are an often-overlooked aspect of driving abroad. Czechia and Japan each have their own list of mandatory items.

Winter Tyres

• Czechia: Winter tyres are mandatory. Period: 1 Nov - 31 Mar (on designated roads with sign). Studded tyres: prohibited. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.
• Japan: Winter tyres are situational. Period: Prefectural regulations; Hokkaido, Tohoku require winter tyres in winter. Studded tyres: restricted. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.

Mandatory Equipment

When renting a car, rental companies typically provide the legally required equipment for the country of hire. If you plan to cross the border, confirm with the rental agency that the vehicle is equipped for both countries.

Speeding Penalties

The financial consequences of speeding vary between Czechia and Japan.

In Czechia, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: CZK 1,000 (approx. EUR 40). Penalties escalate significantly for higher speeds, and repeat offenders face licence suspension.

In Japan, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: JPY 9,000 (approx. EUR 55) + 1 point. Penalties escalate significantly for higher speeds, and repeat offenders face licence suspension.

Both countries use a combination of fixed speed cameras, mobile speed traps, and in some cases average speed (section control) cameras.

Licence Requirements for Visitors

International visitors planning to drive in either country should understand the licence requirements.

Czechia: An EU/EEA driving licence is valid. An IDP is recommended for non-EU licence holders. Visitors can typically drive for up to 12 months on a foreign licence EU/EEA licences valid. Non-EU visitors should carry IDP.

Japan: An IDP is required. Visitors can typically drive for up to 12 months on a foreign licence IDP required (1949 Geneva Convention only). US, UK and many EU licences need specific IDP. Drives on the left.

Always carry your licence (and IDP if applicable) while driving, as police may request to see it during routine checks or traffic stops.

Emergency Numbers

In case of an emergency while driving, it is essential to know the local numbers:

Save these numbers in your phone before travelling. In an emergency, quick access to the correct number is crucial.

Practical Tips for Driving in Both Countries

Preparation is key to a smooth driving experience abroad. Here are tips for driving in Czechia and Japan:

1. Respect local driving culture. Overtaking norms, horn usage, and right-of-way conventions differ. Observe local drivers and adapt accordingly.

2. Plan fuel stops. Fuel prices and station availability can vary significantly. In some regions, stations may close at night or on Sundays.

3. Use a GPS or navigation app. Modern navigation apps often include speed limit warnings, toll information, and real-time traffic updates that can help you comply with local rules.

4. Check insurance coverage. Verify that your motor insurance or rental agreement covers driving in both countries. A Green Card may be required for cross-border travel.

5. Be aware of environmental zones. Many cities have low-emission zones that restrict older vehicles. Check if you need an environmental sticker for either country.

6. Research before you go. Familiarise yourself with the specific rules of each country before your trip. Print or save a summary of key rules for quick reference.

7. Equip your vehicle properly. Ensure you have all mandatory equipment for both countries. It is better to carry extra items than to face a fine for missing equipment.

8. Watch for different road signs. While European countries share many sign conventions, there are country-specific signs you should recognise. Review a local driving guide before your trip.

Which Country Is Easier for Tourists to Drive In?

Which country is easier to drive in depends on your experience level, where you are from, and what conditions you are used to.

Tourist reviews give Czechia a driving ease score of 2.6/5 (Easy). Good motorways, tram priority in cities, vignette required

Based on tourist ratings, Japan scores 3.0/5 (Moderate). Left-hand driving, expensive tolls, excellent roads, kanji signage

The switch between right-hand traffic in Czechia and left-hand traffic in Japan is the single biggest adjustment drivers will face.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Japan with a Czechia driving licence?

Rules vary by nationality. Check the specific licence requirements for each country, and consider obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) before your trip.

What is the speed limit on motorways in Czechia compared to Japan?

The motorway speed limit in Czechia is 130 km/h (130 km/h general limit; 150 km/h pilot on D3 motorway since October 2025 (variable speed signs, conditions permitting)), while in Japan it is 100 km/h (100 km/h standard; 120 km/h on select expressway sections (Shin-Tomei, Tohoku, Joban). From Sept 2026, narrow residential roads default to 30 km/h). Always watch for posted signs, as limits may vary on specific sections due to roadworks, weather, or local restrictions.

Are winter tyres mandatory in Czechia or Japan?

In Czechia, winter tyres are mandatory (1 Nov - 31 Mar (on designated roads with sign)). In Japan, they are situational (Prefectural regulations; Hokkaido, Tohoku require winter tyres in winter). If you are travelling during winter months, it is advisable to use winter tyres regardless of legal requirements for safety.

Which country has stricter drink-driving laws?

Czechia has a stricter BAC limit (0.00% (zero tolerance)) compared to Japan (0.03%). Lower limits mean less alcohol is tolerated before driving becomes illegal.

What side of the road do they drive on in Czechia and Japan?

Czechia drives on the right side and Japan drives on the left side of the road.

Can I use my car insurance from Czechia in Japan?

International motor insurance coverage varies by provider and policy. Contact your insurer before travelling to confirm coverage in both Czechia and Japan. You may need to purchase additional local insurance.

What emergency number should I call while driving in Czechia or Japan?

In Czechia, the general emergency number is 112 (police: 158, ambulance: 155). In Japan, call 110 (police: 110, ambulance: 119). Save both numbers in your phone before you travel.