What’s New on Czech Motorways in 2026
Infoweb about Czech vignettes
The year 2026 brings several changes to Czech motorways that will have a real impact on everyday driving. New sections are being added, higher speed limits are being tested, and long-standing problems drivers have known for years are still being addressed – traffic jams, rest areas, and delayed construction.
If you regularly drive on motorways, some of these changes will likely affect you.
New Motorway Sections: Where Driving Will Be Faster
The most visible change is the gradual opening of new motorway sections. In 2026, this mainly concerns the D35, D3, D49, and D11 motorways.
What this means in practice:
- Some routes will be shortened by dozens of minutes
- Smaller towns currently affected by transit traffic will get relief
- Connections to Poland and Austria will improve
The most important project is the D35, which is gradually taking over the role of an alternative to the D1. If you travel between Bohemia and Moravia, this is a change you will start to notice.
D35 as an Alternative to the D1: Finally a Change
The D1 motorway has long been overloaded, and any accident can cause problems for hours. This is exactly why so much focus is being placed on the construction of the D35, which began in April this year.
The result:
- Part of the traffic will move away from the D1
- Lower risk of traffic jams
- Smoother travel to eastern Bohemia and Moravia
150 km/h Speed Limit: Still Only a Test
A maximum speed limit of 150 km/h is being tested on part of the D3 motorway. The important thing is that it does not apply all the time.
The speed changes depending on the situation:
- When traffic is light → a higher limit may apply
- When it rains or traffic is heavy → the speed limit will be reduced
For drivers, this means only one thing:
pay attention to the signs. Do not automatically drive at 150 km/h.
Parking Is Still a Problem
One of the biggest weaknesses of Czech motorways remains the same – a lack of parking spaces.
The reality:
- Rest areas are often full in the evening
- Trucks park where they should not
- The risk of accidents increases
The government is planning expansions, but so far it is not enough to keep up with traffic growth.
Construction Continues, but Slowly
More motorways are being built, but not as quickly as needed.
The main problems:
- lengthy permit procedures
- land acquisition
- financing
Because of this, planned opening dates are often delayed.
What to Watch Out for When Driving in 2026
Expect frequent restrictions due to construction works
Monitor new motorway sections (navigation not always be updated)
Pay attention to variable speed limits
Plan stops in advance (especially in the evening)
Expect heavier traffic on major routes
Recommendations for Drivers
The biggest mistake is driving “from memory.”
In 2026, motorway conditions are changing faster than before.
It is worth:
- using up-to-date navigation
- following traffic signs
- allowing extra time in your schedule
