Cars with Ukrainian plates in Czechia: registration, insurance and what changes from 2028
Updated: 12 November 2026
Hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians in Czechia drive cars with Ukrainian plates. Rules for them already exist — and significant changes are being prepared. Here is what applies now and what to prepare for.
- Cars with Ukrainian plates must be registered in a special register (IS UA) — mandatory since 1.1.2024, fine up to CZK 30,000.
- The plates and Ukrainian insurance stay.
- You need compulsory liability insurance with a green card from a Ukrainian insurer — Czech insurers do not insure such cars.
- The amendment proposes mandatory Czech registration and STK from 1.1.2028 — not adopted yet.
What applies now
Registration in IS UA
- Registration has been possible since 1 October 2023 at any municipal authority with extended powers (obecní úřad s rozšířenou působností).
- Since 1 January 2024 it is mandatory; the fine for a breach is up to CZK 30,000.
- You need: an identity document, the registration certificate (technical passport) and a completed operator form.
- The plates and Ukrainian insurance do not change.
Insurance
- Every car with Ukrainian plates in Czechia must have compulsory third-party liability insurance and a green card.
- You can buy it online from a Ukrainian insurer that is a member of the Motor (Transport) Insurance Bureau of Ukraine.
- Without insurance: if you cause an accident, the Czech Insurers’ Bureau (ČKP) pays the victims and then recovers the money from you.
What the amendment proposes
In May 2026 the Ministry of Transport announced changes as part of the “Lex Ukrajina” amendment. According to media reports:
- from 2027 — the option to register the car in the Czech vehicle register;
- from 1 January 2028 — mandatory registration and regular technical inspection (STK);
- fines — up to CZK 30,000 for drivers and up to CZK 50,000 for operators.
As of November 2026 the amendment has not been adopted (the vote in the Chamber of Deputies was postponed). Until then, the current rules apply — we will update this article once the law is passed.
What to do now
- Check that your car is registered in IS UA and the green card is valid.
- Carry the technical passport, insurance policy and proof of registration.
- If you plan to stay long-term, work out what pays off better: re-registering the car on Czech plates (import into the EU, STK, registration) or selling it.
Need help?
We help with car registration, insurance, translation of the technical passport and re-registration on Czech plates.
Sources
- Czech Insurers’ Bureau (ČKP) — information for Ukrainian motorists
- Autoživě — Ukrainian cars: mandatory registration and STK from 2028 (19.6.2026)
This article is for general information only and is not legal or tax advice. Check the current rules before making a decision, or contact us.