The Lítačka card: complete guide to the Prague travel pass

Whether you live in Prague or visit for a short stay, the Lítačka card offers a practical way to move around the city without buying separate tickets. This article breaks down the essentials: eligibility, pricing, application methods, and rules on how to use Litačka card.

Table of contents

• Lítačka pass system explained
• Where Lítačka works
• Types of Lítačka
• How to apply for Lítačka online
• How to get the pass through the PID Lítačka Mobile App
• In-person Lítačka application
• Lítačka photo requirements
• Get a photo for your Lítačka card online!
• ID photo app
• Lítačka prices
• How to use Lítačka
• FAQ

Lítačka pass system explained

The Lítačka system connects all public transport in Prague under one unified pass, making travel predictable and cost-effective. Below, we explain how the system works and why it simplifies daily commuting for residents and visitors.

Launched in 2016, the Lítačka pass is Prague's smart card for public transit. It serves as an electronic ticket across all Prague Integrated Transport services, including the metro, trams, buses, funiculars, and ferries. Using RFID technology, the Lítačka Prague travel card allows quick tap-and-go access, enhancing user convenience. Pass options include monthly, quarterly, or annual versions, easily managed through the physical card, mobile app, or contactless bank card.

Beyond transport, the Lítačka card replaces library cards at the Municipal Library and the National Library of Technology, and it even provides discounts on other services. It supports various fare levels, depending on age and type, such as children, seniors, and students. Eligibility for discounted fares is simple to verify with apps or ID documents.

Where Lítačka works

Lítačka transport card is accepted across Prague’s entire integrated transport network, including the metro, trams, buses, and selected regional lines. Here you’ll see exactly which zones and services the pass covers to help you plan your journeys confidently.

The pass primarily covers Zone P, Prague's main tariff area, which includes metro, trams, buses, trolleybuses, ferries, the Petřín cableway, and key railway stations within the city. This zone is double-tiered due to its comprehensive service range within Prague.

Furthermore, Lítačka extends to suburban and commuter areas outside the city, designated as Zones 0 and B. Zone 0 features commuter parts of suburban buses and select railway stops near Prague’s center, while Zone B reaches the city's outskirts with additional bus lines and railway stops. Typically, passes cover Zones P and 0, but traveling further requires additional tickets or passes for the Central Bohemian Region.

Types of Lítačka

The system offers several pass options tailored to different travel needs, from short-term visits to long-term commuting. Here we explain each type so you can choose the most suitable one.

Lítačka card types:

• Personal card with records: includes passenger details, perfect for personalized travel passes.

• Personal card without records: issued to an individual but doesn't track travel records.

• Anonymous card: not linked to any specific person. Anyone can use it.

Age and user categories:

• Child: for ages 6 to 15, discounted fares require eligibility proof.

• Junior: for those aged 15 to 18.

• Student: for students aged 18 to 26, available with valid student proof.

• Adult: for individuals aged 18 to 60.

• Senior: discounted passes for individuals aged 60 to 65, proof required.

• Senior 65+: offers specific discounts and fare rules for those over 65.

Pass durations:

• Monthly pass
• Quarterly pass
• Yearly pass

In addition to Lítačka cards, short-term tickets are available as paper tickets, electronically via the Lítačka app, or through SMS.

How to apply for Lítačka online

Applying online is the easiest way to get your pass without visiting an office. Here, you’ll learn how to complete the digital application step by step. Follow these steps to apply without visiting an office:

1. Visit the official Lítačka online application portal.
2. Enter your personal information, such as name, date of birth, and contact details.
3. Upload a passport-sized photo that meets specific standards, described below in the article.
4. Complete and submit the online application form.
5. Once your application is approved, collect your physical Lítačka card at the Lítačka Customer Centre in Škoda Palace, Prague, or at designated collection points. If available, you can opt for home delivery by post.

Through their online account, Lítačka card holders can buy monthly, quarterly, or annual passes, apply discounts, and check card details.

How to get the pass through the PID Lítačka Mobile App

The official app lets you order, store, and manage your pass directly on your phone. This part describes the app’s main features and how to purchase or activate your Lítačka digitally. Here is how to use PID Lítačka App:

1. Download the PID Lítačka app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
2. For short-term tickets, use the app without registering. To access long-term passes (monthly, quarterly, yearly) and full features, register with the same email and password as your PID account for seamless management.
3. Log in and upload a passport-style photo in your profile, required for personalized passes.
4. Link your mobile device as an identifier in the app, so your long-term passes connect to your phone.
5. Purchase passes directly through the app for periods ranging from one month to a year.
6. Find the pass in the “Tickets > Coupons” section as a QR code, ready for travel.
7. Activate the pass as needed. Once activated, PID Lítačka works offline for inspections.
8. Ensure your phone is charged and present the QR code to inspectors as your valid travel document.

The Lítačka app also allows you to search for the cheapest fares, buy single or multi-day tickets, and check parking and accessibility features.

In-person Lítačka application

If you prefer personal assistance, you can obtain the card at designated customer centers. Below, we walk you through what to bring and how the process works on site.

The main center is the Lítačka Customer Centre at Škoda Palace, Jungmannova 35/29, Prague 1. You can also get your card at seven other DPP sales points in Prague, even on weekends and public holidays. At these locations, you can:

• Submit your application.
• Provide a mandatory passport-sized photo.
• Collect your Lítačka card on the spot if using the express service.
• Pay a 200 CZK issuance fee.
• Report a lost or defective card for replacement.
• Alternatively, if you submit a standard application (online or in person), expect your card within 30 days, either by mail or ready for pickup at a set location.

For children, students, and seniors seeking discount passes, bring personal ID for verification during in-person applications.

Lítačka photo requirements

Your application must include a compliant ID-style photo, and strict technical rules apply. Here you’ll find the exact specifications, so your picture is accepted without delays.

The photo requirements match those for passport or ID cards:

• Use standard passport photo dimensions: 3.5 × 4.5 cm or 260 × 346 pixels for digital uploads.
• The head should measure 32–36 mm from top to chin, with the eye-to-chin distance no less than 13 mm.
• Ensure the photo is recent, clear, and high-quality.
• Your full face should be visible, with a centered head, neutral expression, and closed mouth.
• Select a plain, light-colored, and uniform background.
• Avoid shadows, glare, and accessories. Head coverings are allowed only for religious or medical purposes.
• The photo must be in color and taken within the past six months to reflect your current appearance.

Here is a photo example:

Get a photo for your Lítačka card online!

A simple way to get a compliant Lítačka card photo is through online services like Visafoto.com. Since 2013, Visafoto has specialized in creating document photos for passports, visas, driver's licenses, and more.

With Visafoto, you can take a Lítačka card photo from anywhere in the world. Capture your photo in a daylight, upload it to the website, and the tool handles the correct format, background, size, and dimensions.

Example of a photo you can upload:

You'll receive a digital version for online submissions. If you're unsatisfied, we offer a free redo. In case of official rejection, a refund is available.

ID photo app

Prefer using a smartphone? Try the 7ID app by Visafoto.com to simplify ID, passport, and visa photo creation. Compatible with both iOS and Android, the app makes photo adjustments easy.

Upload your picture to the 7ID app, pick a country and document type, and the app will fine-tune your image to official specs, including size, format, and background. It ensures your face and eye line are centered perfectly. You’ll receive a digital file and a print template fitting standard paper sizes like 4×6, A4, A5, or B5.

If you have questions, our technical support is on hand 24/7 to assist.

Lítačka prices

Lítačka card prices vary by age, duration, and travel zone. Here we outline the current tariff structure to help you choose the most economical option.

For Prague integrated transport:

• Adults (18 to 60 years):

  • Monthly pass: CZK 550 (about EUR 23)
  • Quarterly pass: CZK 1,480 (about EUR 61)
  • Yearly pass: CZK 3,650 (approx. EUR 151)

• Juniors (15 to 18 years):

  • Monthly pass: CZK 130 (about EUR 5)
  • Quarterly pass: CZK 360 (approx. EUR 15)
  • Yearly pass: CZK 1,280 (about EUR 53)

• Students (18 to 26 years, with valid student proof):

  • Monthly pass: CZK 130 CZK (about EUR 5)
  • Quarterly pass: CZK 360 CZK (approx. EUR 15)
  • Yearly pass: CZK 1,280 CZK (about EUR 53)

• Seniors / Socially needy individuals:

  • Monthly pass: CZK 130 CZK (about EUR 5)
  • Quarterly pass: CZK 360 CZK (approx. EUR 15)
  • Yearly pass: CZK 1,280 CZK (about EUR 53)

• For non-personalized, transferable coupons, rates are higher:

  • Monthly pass: CZK 1,000 (approx. EUR 41)
  • Quarterly pass: CZK 2,700 (about EUR 23)
  • Yearly pass: CZK 7,800 (about EUR 323)

Initial issuance of a Lítačka card costs approximately CZK 200 (about EUR 8). Applications for special discounts (children 6–15 years, seniors 65+) are around CZK 60 (about EUR 2,5). To find out the most up-to-date prices, check out the Lítačka card price list.

How to use Lítačka

Once issued, the pass must be validated and shown correctly during inspections. Here is how to use the card or digital version in everyday travel to avoid fines or issues:

• After purchasing a pass (monthly, quarterly, or yearly), load it onto your Lítačka card or the PID Lítačka app. This card or app acts as your valid travel ticket.
• Carry the Lítačka card with the loaded pass or use the mobile app.
• Show your card or app with the pass visible to ticket inspectors. They'll scan using portable readers.
• The card automatically validates your pass - no manual checks needed.
• Use the Lítačka Prague public transport card across Prague’s metro, trams, buses, ferries, and certain commuter trains.
• It’s tied to an individual user and isn’t transferable to others.
• Manage your pass for purchase, renewal, or updates on the PID Lítačka website or app.
• Beyond transport, Lítačka can serve as a library reading card and offer discounts at participating venues.
• If you forget your physical card, you must buy a new ticket, unless your app or bank card serves as an identifier associated with your pass.

FAQ

Do I need a photo for Lítačka?

Yes, a current passport-style photo is necessary for a personalized Lítačka card. This photo must meet specific technical standards similar to those for passport photos. If you opt for an anonymous card, however, a photo is not required. For online applications, upload a digital photo; for in-person, provide a printed one.

Can tourists use Lítačka?

Yes, Lítačka cards are available for tourists, as well to anyone over 6 years old, regardless of residency or nationality. The procedure of obtaining a Lítačka card for foreigners is the same as for locals. Though more suited to longer stays with monthly, quarterly, and yearly passes, tourists can also use the PID Lítačka system for short-term travel tickets in Prague. However, for very short visits, single or short-term tickets might be more practical.

Can I use only the mobile app without a card?

Yes, the PID Lítačka mobile app can be used without a physical card. Through the app, you can purchase and activate both single tickets and long-term passes. Here is how to use PID Lítačka: once activated, your ticket appears as a QR code on your smartphone, ready for display to ticket inspectors. This digital form is fully accepted throughout Prague’s transport network.

How long does card issuance take?

For standard applications, online or in-person, card issuance usually takes up to 30 days. You can opt to have it mailed to your address or a pickup location. For immediate needs, you can get a Lítačka card on the spot at the Lítačka Customer Centre in Škoda Palace or at seven other express points in Prague. This service is available during weekends and holidays, too.

Can children get their own card?

Yes, children can have their separate Lítačka card. Applications for kids under 13 must be submitted by a parent or guardian, along with ID and proof of guardianship. Minors aged 6 to 15 can access discounted or free fares, but must be verified with an official ID or birth certificate. Children under 6 must travel with someone over 10.

What is the validity period?

The Lítačka card is valid for seven years from the issue date. Travel passes (monthly, quarterly, yearly) loaded onto the card have separate validity durations based on purchase terms. Cards nearing expiry might automatically renew to maintain validity.