You can drive this route without paying any tolls, as long as you avoid Czech motorways and expressways.
This scenic drive through the Ore Mountains (Krušné hory) offers a toll-free alternative that keeps you on local and regional roads.
However, understanding when and where you might need a vignette is crucial for avoiding hefty fines during your journey.
Route Overview
The distance between Oberwiesenthal and Karlovy Vary is approximately 23 km (14 miles), with a driving time of roughly 30 minutes.
The toll-free route takes you directly from Oberwiesenthal across the border to Karlovy Vary using local and regional roads.
Understanding Czech Vignette Requirements
In the Czech Republic, a digital vignette is required for vehicles up to 3.5 tons when driving on:
- Motorways (“D” roads)
- Expressways (“R” roads)
You can purchase a digital vignette online at the official Czech government website or at fuel stations near the border.
However, ordinary national and regional roads remain toll-free.
NOTE: Electric, hydrogen, or hybrid cars with CO2 emissions not exceeding 52g/km are exempt from the Czech vignette requirement.
Why the Oberwiesenthal-Karlovy Vary Route Is Toll-Free
The route between Oberwiesenthal and Karlovy Vary uses non-motorway roads (secondary and regional roads).
According to travel sources, no vignette is required if you stay on these standard roads and avoid entering Czech motorways.
Some nearby motorway sections may be toll-free temporarily, but the main border-to-Karlovy Vary route does not require a vignette.
The key is to stick to local roads rather than accessing any “D” or “R” designated routes.
NOTE: Always follow road signs carefully — if you see a “D” or “R” designation, that’s usually a toll road.
Essential Tips for Drivers
To ensure a smooth toll-free journey, follow these practical guidelines:
- Use GPS navigation wisely: Enable the “Avoid toll roads” option in Google Maps or your preferred navigation app. This ensures you’ll stay on vignette-free routes.
- Watch for road signs: Pay attention to road designations — “D” roads are motorways and “R” roads are expressways that require vignettes.
- Keep navigation updated: Road toll statuses can change over time, so ensure your GPS has the latest information.
- Check rental car policies: When renting a car, verify that cross-border travel is permitted and understand any additional requirements.
- Plan for longer journeys: If you continue past Karlovy Vary, you will need a vignette for the motorway D6 or any Czech expressway.
When a Vignette Becomes Necessary
You’ll need to buy a vignette if:
- You continue past Karlovy Vary using motorway D6 or any Czech expressway.
- You accidentally enter a toll section marked with vignette signs.
- You plan a longer stay or drive on major routes such as D1, D5, or D8.
NOTE: Fines for driving without a valid vignette can reach up to 20,000 CZK (approximately $800), so it’s crucial to understand which roads require payment.