Issuance of the driving licence
What happens right after passing the final exam — when you can legally drive, how long the plastic card takes, and how to apply for your first driving licence.
Issuance of the driving licence after passing the exam
Once you pass your final driving exam, the examiner records the result and the examination commissioner sends the information to the register of drivers (registr řidičů) at the municipal office with extended competence in your district. The moment you are entered into the register, you have the right to drive — the plastic card itself is only a document confirming that right.
Most students ask: How long does it take to get the driving licence? In practice, the office issues the plastic card within 20 days from the application (statutory limit under Act 361/2000 Coll., § 110), or within 5 working days for an extra fee (about 500–700 CZK). But you don't have to wait for the card to start driving.
Can I drive while waiting for my licence?
Yes. Driving entitlement arises the moment you are entered into the register of drivers. From that day on you may legally drive a Category B vehicle on Czech roads. The plastic card is then mailed out later, or you collect it in person at the office. While you don't have it, carry your ID and any document proving you were granted the entitlement (most offices issue a paper confirmation on the spot).
You can drive the moment you're entered in the register
Forget the myth that you have to wait two weeks for the plastic card. The driving entitlement arises by registry entry — and most offices print a paper confirmation of granted entitlement on the spot when you submit the application. With that confirmation in your pocket you can drive home from the office in your own car.
From the exam to the plastic card
Three clear steps — most students complete them within a week of passing.
Pass the exam and get registered
After you pass the practical part of the exam, the examiner records the result. The examination commissioner forwards everything to the register of drivers. From the moment of registry entry you are legally entitled to drive Category B vehicles.
Driving entitlement: grantedApply for the driving licence
Visit the office in person — in Brno, the Magistrate of the City of Brno, Department of Transport Administration. The official takes your photo on the spot (or pulls it from the ID-card database), prints out the application, you sign it and pay the fee. Most offices will hand you a paper confirmation of granted entitlement at the same window.
200 CZK fee (standard)Pick up your plastic licence
Standard turnaround for the plastic card is up to 20 days; the rush option is 5 working days. You collect it in person at the same office (or have it mailed for a small extra fee). Until the card arrives, you drive with the paper confirmation and your ID.
Done — full licence in handWhat to bring to the office
A short checklist so you don't have to come twice.
Required
- Valid ID card
- Cash or card for the 200/700 CZK fee
- A few minutes — you fill in the application at the counter
You DON'T need
- Passport-style photo (taken on the spot)
- Medical certificate (only at first issue if you already submitted one to driving school)
- Exam results — already in the register
Tip
- Book a time slot online — saves queueing
- Ask for the paper confirmation right away
- Rush option (5 days) is worth it if you need the card for a trip
Frequent questions about issuing the licence
How long does it take to get the driving licence after the exam?
Standard turnaround at the registry office is up to 20 days from filing the application (statutory limit). A rush option of 5 working days is available for an extra fee (about 500 CZK on top of the standard 200 CZK).
Can I drive while waiting for my licence?
Yes. Driving entitlement arises the moment you are entered into the register of drivers — that's right after you pass and apply. Carry your ID and the paper confirmation of granted entitlement (the office prints it on the spot). The plastic card itself is just a document of the entitlement.
Where do I apply for the first driving licence?
At the office of the municipality with extended competence in the district of your permanent residence. In Brno this is the Magistrate of the City of Brno, Department of Transport Administration, Kounicova 67.
How much does the licence cost?
The administrative fee is 200 CZK for standard issuance (within 20 days), or 700 CZK total for the rush option (5 working days).
Do I need to bring a photo?
No. The clerk takes a digital photo directly at the counter, or pulls it from the existing ID-card database. No need to bring printed photos.