The digitalisation of public administration may not be progressing as quickly as many would like, but incremental progress continues to be made. One recent example is the Government's proposed amendment to Act No. 56/2001 Sb., on the Conditions for the Operation of Vehicles on Public Roads.
The proposed amendment aims to introduce digital vehicle registration procedures, including the electronic allocation of vehicle registration plates. Although the proposal is still at the legislative stage and may undergo significant changes as it progresses through the legislative process, it nevertheless demonstrates a clear commitment to modernising the existing regulatory framework in this area.
Electronic register and streamlined application procedures
The proposed amendment introduces an electronic vehicle registration system that would fundamentally transform the current registration process. It would enable all applications (including applications for vehicle registration, the registration of a change of ownership, and the allocation of vehicle registration plates) to be submitted online via the Ministry of Transport's portal, eliminating the need for applicants to visit the competent registration authority in person. Lengthy waiting times at government offices for these routine administrative procedures could therefore become a thing of the past
Perhaps the most significant innovation is the possibility of fully automated processing of applications without the involvement of a public official. For vehicle manufacturers and importers, who routinely register entire fleets of vehicles, this would substantially reduce the administrative burden while shortening the time between the sale of a vehicle and its registration in the vehicle register. Electronic copies of supporting documents would replace paper originals, and the physical presence of applicants at the registration authority would become the exception rather than the rule.
Remote access to roadworthiness test records
The proposed amendment would also make it possible for anyone to remotely access selected information from the roadworthiness test information system using the vehicle identification number (VIN). In particular, the following information would be available:
- the date of the vehicle's first registration;
- the vehicle's type and category;
- the vehicle's make, commercial designation and model/type designation;
- the engine type;
- records of the vehicle's attendance at roadworthiness testing and emissions testing stations;
- the date and type of the roadworthiness test, together with the inspection report number;
- details of defects identified during the roadworthiness test; and
- the recorded odometer reading.
These changes would be particularly valuable for prospective purchasers in the used vehicle market.
Before the bill enters into force…
The bill is currently under consideration by the Government. If approved, it will proceed through the standard legislative process, first being submitted to the Chamber of Deputies, then to the Senate, before requiring the President’s signature. As a result, the amendment is unlikely to enter into force before the first half of next year. As noted above, however, it is highly likely that the current draft will undergo further amendments during the legislative process.
At HAVEL & PARTNERS, we closely monitor legislative developments and help our clients not only adapt their internal processes to new regulatory requirements but also navigate an evolving legal landscape.
