The border between Slovakia and the Czech Republic is an important connecting route between two central countries in Europe. It represents not only a geographical separation but also an important link for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between the two nations.
The total length of the border between Slovakia and the Czech Republic is 251.8 km, with 71 km formed by rivers. It spans various geographical regions such as the White Carpathians, the Javorníky Mountains, and the Western Beskids, which indicates several possible crossing points in these areas. Not all border crossings are strictly regulated. Some are merely road crossings.
With the accession of both countries to the Schengen Area in 2007, systematic border controls were abolished. Since their EU accession and joining the Schengen Agreement, the Slovaks have developed significantly, and their perception of the EU has been strengthened in the face of current challenges. This means that both EU citizens and citizens of other countries can cross the border without passport controls. However, there are occasional temporary border controls, especially for security or migration policy reasons.
For EU citizens, entry to Slovakia and the Czech Republic is straightforward. A valid identity card or passport is sufficient. Citizens of other countries should check specific visa requirements, which may vary depending on the country of origin.
In Slovakia, the Euro (EUR) is used, while in the Czech Republic, the Czech Koruna (CZK) is the national currency. Travelers should therefore ensure they have the appropriate currency or check in advance for exchange offices and ATMs at border crossings. Nonetheless, both countries are individual EU member states.
Toll fees are paid electronically in both cases. It is recommended to purchase both the digital vignette for Slovakia and the digital vignette for Czech Republic in advance online.
There are a total of 27 former border crossings between Slovakia and the Czech Republic that can be used for controls, including:
Some key geographical points along the border are:
These crossings are not only important for transportation but also interesting from a historical and cultural perspective.
The following section gives you an overview of whether you need a vignette and whether there is a toll based on distance.
On nearly all highways and expressways in Slovakia, a vignette is required. The vignette requirement applies to vehicles up to 3.5 tons gross vehicle weight. It is important to note that motorcycles are exempt from the vignette requirement and do not need a vignette. Additionally, motorhomes are a special case, as they require a vignette regardless of their weight (even if their weight exceeds 3.5 tons). Also, for trailers (car + trailer), if the total weight is under 3.5 tons, only the vehicle's vignette is needed. However, if the total weight exceeds 3.5 tons, an additional vignette for the trailer must be purchased.
Motorcycles are thus exempt from the vignette requirement and do not have to pay fees for driving on highways and expressways!
The vignette requirement does not apply to vehicles over 3.5 tons (except for motorhomes, which are vignette-required regardless of their weight). Instead, a distance-based toll is charged, which depends on the kilometers traveled, the vehicle class (number of axles), and the emission class (pollution level). This distance-based toll is collected using a transponder, which is an On-Board Unit. Thus, the toll amount can be automatically deducted. Therefore, you must have such a transponder installed in your vehicle beforehand. The distance-based toll covers highways, expressways, and some first-class (federal highways) and second-class (national roads) roads.
In the Czech Republic, you need a vignette to drive on highways and expressways. This vignette used to be a small adhesive label that had to be visibly attached to your windshield. It has now been replaced by the digital vignette.
The vignette is an efficient system to ensure the financing and maintenance of the Czech highway network. You can purchase the vignette at most gas stations in the Czech Republic, but also at selected sales outlets in Germany, mainly near the border. Another convenient option is to buy the vignette online with us before you start your trip.
The Czech vignette is available in different validity periods, including 10 days, 1 month, and 1 year. The choice of validity period depends on your travel plans. For example, if you're only in the Czech Republic for a short vacation, the 10-day vignette is a practical choice. For longer stays or regular trips to the country, the annual vignette may be more cost-efficient.
It is important to note that driving without a valid vignette on Czech highways and expressways results in high penalties. Therefore, it is advisable to purchase the vignette in time and attach it properly to your vehicle to avoid unpleasant surprises.
The differences in toll and vignette regulations between Slovakia and the Czech Republic show how important it is to check the respective rules before traveling. This not only ensures compliance with the laws but also guarantees a smooth trip while you can enjoy the impressive landscapes and culture of both countries.
Also, in the Czech Republic, no distance-based toll is charged for vehicles under 3.5 tons gross vehicle weight. Vehicles over 3.5 tons gross vehicle weight must pay tolls on highways, expressways, and on designated sections of the road marked as first-class roads. These are marked with an “M” on a yellow background, and the toll is also collected using an On-Board Unit (OBU).
Order your vignette easily and conveniently with us and choose between the various validity periods for the digital vignette for Czech Republic or the digital vignette for Slovakia.
Also discover the popular cities the Czech Republic has to offer and the culinary specialties of the country.
