The Czech Republic is preparing new rules for owners of cars with Ukrainian registration. According to changes in legislation, Ukrainians with temporary protection will need to transfer their vehicles to Czech registration. This requirement will become mandatory from January 1, 2028. Visit Ukraine reports this, referencing the draft amendments to the Lex Ukraine law.
What will change for Ukrainian drivers in the Czech Republic
The new norms will apply to citizens of Ukraine who are in the Czech Republic based on temporary protection or tolerance visa.
After the law comes into force, owners of Ukrainian cars will have the opportunity to register their vehicles according to the rules that apply to Czech citizens.
This involves obtaining Czech license plates, registering cars in the national registries, and obtaining a full set of local documents.
When registration becomes mandatory
The bill still needs to undergo final approval by parliament and receive the signature of the President of the Czech Republic.
After that, changes will be implemented in stages:
- from January 1, 2027 car re-registration will be voluntary;
- from January 1, 2028 it will become mandatory for all car owners subject to the new rules.
The Czech government explains the new measures as necessary for integrating Ukrainian vehicles into the local control system and ensuring equal conditions for all drivers.
What penalties threaten after 2028
In the Czech Republic, it is reminded that from 2024, cars of Ukrainians must already be registered in the special IS UA registry.
As of March 2026, over 28.4 thousand vehicles were registered in the database.
After January 1, 2028, driving a car with Ukrainian plates without mandatory re-registration may result in significant fines.
The material mentions that violators may face fines amounting to tens of thousands of Czech crowns, and in some cases even confiscation of the vehicle during road checks.
It is reminded that the Czech government has approved a package of amendments to migration legislation that provides for stricter rules for the stay and receipt of assistance for Ukrainian refugees.