Czechia Implements Stricter Regulations for Foreign Taxi Drivers’ Licenses
This update is prompted by concerns related to safety, existing regulatory shortfalls, and the increasing number of taxis present on the roads of Prague.
In the previous year, 5,405 new taxi driver licenses were issued in Prague alone, which represents twice the amount granted in 2020. Currently, there are around 16,000 taxis reportedly in operation within the city; however, data from the city indicates that only about 3,500 taxis would realistically be needed to satisfy the local demand.
The issue of oversupply, which has been influenced in part by the growth of ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt, has led to a government response aimed at regulation.
Starting in July 2025, taxi drivers will be required to hold a valid driver’s license issued by Czechia or any other EU member state in order to operate legally.
Licenses will be issued only for the duration of a driver’s authorized stay, replacing the previous five-year validity period. Authorities will also gain the power to conduct immediate checks on drivers’ documentation as well as the registration of their vehicles.
Crackdown on Non-EU Drivers
As reported by Vít Hofman, spokesperson for Prague City Hall, a significant number of those applying for taxi licenses hail from Ukraine, Uzbekistan, and Nigeria.
“The influx of foreign drivers has increased dramatically, especially with the growth of services such as Uber and Bolt,” he stated to Novinky.cz. “Sadly, many of these drivers are not well-versed in local traffic regulations, lack adequate driving experience, and are unfamiliar with the city’s layout—this poses risks to both passengers and others on the road.”
The government is now acting on the suggestions put forward by Prague authorities earlier this year. These changes have been incorporated into a larger amendment to the Road Transport Act, which was approved by the Senate last week and is now awaiting the president’s endorsement.
According to the new legislation, all taxi vehicles must be registered in the national taxi database and display a round yellow sticker on their windshields for easier identification during inspections.
Municipal police will have greater authority to stop taxis for compliance checks—not solely for traffic safety violations.
Growing Concerns Over Safety
Although insurance firms do not track the nationality of drivers, they have reported a notable increase in traffic accidents involving taxis. The majority of taxi vehicles are owned by private companies, which complicates the matter of accountability.
Another significant concern is that some foreign drivers may continue to operate even after their visas or permits have expired, or may be driving while in the country on tourist visas. Alena Mühl, spokeswoman for the Ministry of Transport, has confirmed that existing enforcement gaps have allowed such practices to occur.
According to official statistics, of the nearly 15,000 taxi licenses issued last year, more than 6,000 were granted to Ukrainian nationals, with 1,153 licenses awarded to Uzbeks and 117 to Nigerians.
