Driving in Czech Republic

Never heard of any disturbing stories...do you have any sources? My cousin lived/worked there for several years and driving there is no different than anywhere else (except for manual transmission cars). Although if you break traffic rules, then sure, there will be fines. Otherwise, why would anyone get in trouble with law enforcement? If you want to avoid any worries, then take public transport.

It was the first we had heard of any problems, but it was a forum on Trip Advisor. And was surprised when multiple people chimed in with stories of corruption and getting pulled over and asked to pay cash now for the violation, and even bargained the price.
Sounded kind of scary, and so we thought we should do some more research. Thanks for your input.

Ok...I googled and found some scary tale pop up from 2009. I would immediately disregard some old sensationalized reviews that have very little probability of happening to you. Honestly, I think some people get into trouble and are surprised because they're unaware of the rules or are not following them. I would make sure to read and follow every driving rule in the country. If you haven't driven in Europe before, there are some aspects for which there is very little tolerance and downright zero tolerance. You will absolutely get fined for certain things that you may not be used to, including not having a "vignette" or obeying other rules such as speeding. Rent a car in-country so you are driving with Czech plates - that cuts down on some risk right away.

Regarding vignettes, if you rent the car in Czech Republic (or is it Czechia now), it will automatically come with a vignette. If you are renting the car outside the Czech Republc and driving in, make sure the rental company knows you intend to drive it there, and you will need to stop at the first gas station over the border and purchase a vignette and attach it to the wind shield in the right place.
Also, get an International Drivers Permit from AAA. It will act as a translation of your home drivers license (which you will also need). That way if you do get stopped, the cop will have a document he can read.

http://www.livingprague.com/driving.htm
read this link, great Info.i am good friends with Jason who runs this website and his information is spot on.
The places you mention are very easy to get to by public transport.i was in Plzen last month with some friends , regular trains and buses from Prague taking from just over an hour to to less than 2 hours.
Karlovy Vary regular buses from Prague taking around 2 hours each way.
Cesky Krumlov is a bit further and I have never visited

I drive in C.R. often. Never had that experience with police as you mentioned. Few speeding fines. I could say police is very polite nowadays. There are more aggressive drivers there than here. That's where I would see the problem, not police. Read the link which was posted by Unclegus. Everything what you need to know about driving in C.R. is there. I would add: if you don't know international traffic signs, learn it.
You can get to all your mentioned destinations by public transport. If you intend to do some other stops on the way, rent a car. Otherwise use public transport. When in Karlovy Vary, visit nearby Loket. Castle and town. Some similarities with Cesky Krumlov but fewer tourists, lower prices.

Hi kat. We drove in CR last year and enjoyed it, had no problems. It allowed us to get off the beaten track and experience true Czech small towns / culture with no other Americans. Enjoy your trip!