Getting a driver's license in a foreign country is not easy, especially when the legal details of Czech traffic rules confuse even local residents. One of Prague's oldest driving schools, Autoškola Horázný, which has been operating since 1991, has made training for newcomers its priority.
In 32 years of operation, almost 20,000 students have gone through the school. Today, every fourth student here is a foreigner, for whom the most comfortable conditions are created.
Instructors speak English and Russian. Theoretical materials (textbooks) are also available in these languages.
Solving the problem of "difficult Czech." Exam questions are often written in complex legal language. The school provides its own translations of the tests, helping students understand the logic of the questions, not just memorize the answers.
Each student gets access to a mobile app to track their progress and an online account with GPS tracking of their drives.
Training takes place in new cars (Škoda Karoq, Toyota Corolla Hybrid) with both manual and automatic transmissions.
The entire training cycle takes an average of 3 months. The program is adapted to the needs of those who live in the rhythm of a big city:
Simulator stage: the first lessons take place on modern simulators. This allows students to practice motor skills (pedals, gear shift, steering wheel) without the stress of city traffic.
Practice in real conditions: routes include Prague's city center, high-speed highways, and driving during peak hours.
Exam support: students can use a translator's services during the theoretical exam. An instructor is present during the practical part, ready to help communicate with the inspector.
The school's founder, Ondřej Horázný, notes that drivers from the USA, Canada, or Australia often face difficulties in Europe. The main "trap" is the right-hand rule at intersections without signs.
"Foreigners often show excessive caution where they need to act confidently. In the Czech exam, it is important not only to drive safely but also to demonstrate knowledge of your priorities. Indecision can lead to failure," Horázný emphasizes.
The driving school is located in the Prague 3 district, within walking distance of the Jiřího z Poděbrad (JZP) metro station. In addition to the basic course, they offer driving skills refresher lessons after a long break.
