Many people coming to the Czech Republic overlook the fact that they’ll need to switch to a Czech driving license if they plan to stay for any length of time.

Driving without a valid license can cause multiple problems. Not only are drivers without a Czech license subject to stiff fines from the police, but insurance claims might not be honored after an accident.

These are the steps you need to take to secure a driver’s license in the Czech Republic.

To obtain a Czech driving license, people need to pass both a written and practical test. Applicants who are not fluent in Czech can use the help of a translator. The B license is for a standard vehicle such as a car or SUV.

While in some countries, people can learn on their own and simply make an appointment and take a driving test, that is not the case in the Czech Republic. Here, you need to go through an accredited driving school. The basic course outline is defined by law, and even highly experienced drivers who cannot exchange their license must take the classes.

Applicants need several units of driving instruction with an instructor from an accredited driving school. This includes both studying for a written exam and for a practical driving test. A standard certificate from a doctor stating the applicant is in good enough health to drive is also required. Schools handle making the appointments for the tests.

Many schools allow for studying for the theoretical tests online, often in English or another language if needed. Practice tests can also be taken online. The written test is taken before the driving skills test.