Czechs Will Be Able to Enroll in Driving School at the Age of 15
In 2024, aspiring Czech drivers will be able to commence their driving school courses at the age of 15 years and six months. Once they reach 17 years of age, they will be permitted to drive a car under the supervision of a mentor for a year. Transport Minister Martin Kupka (ODS) announced this development during a press conference, expressing his hope that these changes will lead to improvements in road safety. The Czech Republic currently experiences 50 road deaths per million inhabitants annually, and Kupka aspires to reduce this number to below 40. The amendment, scheduled to take effect next year, also includes modifications to the penalty points system for drivers, along with certain increases in fines. Kupka emphasized that these changes reflect the seriousness and risk levels associated with various driving offenses. Penalties will now be categorized into two, four, or six penalty points for different offenses. For instance, driving under the influence of alcohol will now result in six penalty points, down from the previous seven, but with an administrative fine increased to CZK 25,000, up from the existing CZK 20,000. Refusing an alcohol test, driving without a license, or driving while banned will all incur a...