How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners who reside in Poland are forced to exchange their driving license in their country for one issued by Poland. This is especially true for people who spend more than the 185-day limit as a legal resident (documented by local address registration, visa or residence permit).
To achieve this, they must pass a series of tests and exams. The most important of these are:
Medical Exam
It is difficult to obtain a driving license in Poland, especially for foreigners. The process begins with a medical exam to confirm that you're physically fit enough to drive. Then you need to pass a written test to demonstrate your knowledge of Polish road rules and safety rules. Additionally, you will need to undergo a series of driving lessons with an instructor certified to prove that you are able to safely operate a vehicle on Polish roads.
Based on the country of your birth, the process could take up to 6 months or longer. If you are a citizen of the EU or a member country of the Vienna Convention, then your domestic driving license will be accepted in Poland without needing to exchange it. Alternately you can apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for those who reside in countries that are not part of the convention.
Even if you are a citizen of one of these countries you will still need to obtain a PKK as well as pass a medical examination. You will also be required to carry a translation of your driver's licence in Polish, as well as the passport copy and proof of residency, or a valid visa.
After you've completed all steps, you will receive an appointment date for your driving test at your local road traffic center (osrodek ruchu drogowego). The theory test will be administered by an automated machine. It will consist of multiple-choice tests on traffic laws, road signs, and safety regulations. The practical test will be administered by a licensed instructor. It will require you to demonstrate your ability to operate a vehicle and change gears, maneuvering around curves and parking.
In June 2017, drivers working for ride-sharing companies such as Uber or Bolt will be required to hold a valid Polish driving license. New laws will force drivers to possess an active Polish driving license or face insurance problems. Drivers who are not part of the Eurozone must also get a Polish license within 185 days after settling in Poland or risk having their licenses exchanged.
Theory Exam
If you hold a driving license issued in the country that is a signatory to the Road Traffic Convention, you can exchange it for a Polish license after 185 consecutive days of legal residency, provided that your residency is proven by a local address registration (Zameldowanie) or residence card, visa or another document that confirms your right to stay. However, führerschein in polen machen will still need to pass the theoretical portion of the national test regardless of whether your foreign license is attached to an International Driving Permit.
The theory exam is a multiple-part test comprised of a written portion and a practice one. It is notoriously difficult, even for Polish people, and the majority of people fail on their first or second try even after a lot of studying. Many companies offer to assist you in preparing for the test. Beware of scams that promise to take your money, but not provide you with the practice.
Visit your nearest WORD location to arrange your theory test. During the registration you will need a passport along with your driver profile for candidates (PKK). The cost for the theoretical portion of the test is 30 PLN.
After passing the theory test, you will need to be registered with your district authority (osdzie). (drogowy), for a practical examination. The process typically takes a few weeks, particularly in cities with large populations. You'll require your PKK passport, passport and a document confirming that you have the right to stay in Poland (Zameldowanie).
If the practical exam has been completed, you will be able to get your driving licence in a few days. To obtain your licence, you'll need to bring the same documents that you used to register your PKK along with a valid certificate from the driving school. Driving in Poland is very enjoyable, but it is also a duty. To ensure safety on the road it is crucial to observe all road regulations, including wearing your seat belt, paying attention to traffic signals, and adhering to speed limits. You will be penalized by the police if don't. It is essential to be aware of the Polish driving etiquette.
Practical Exam
Before you can pass the test, you have to enroll in driving school and complete several practical classes. You can find a driving school in your location by searching online or asking around for recommendations. The course is affordable and lasts for a few weeks. In the course, you will learn how to drive a car and be tested in driving theory.
The state test that is the last step to obtain an Polish license, is held at the Province Road Traffic Centers (Wojewodzki Osrodki Ruchu Drogowego). The exam is split into two parts: the theory, and practice. The theory part of the exam is available in a variety of languages, making it easier for non Polish speakers to prepare. During the state exam practice you'll have to demonstrate your driving skills and knowledge.
You will also be required to pass a course in first aid and an eye exam. You may need to take oral or written tests depending on the type license you're looking to obtain.
You must provide your birth certificate and identification documents when applying for an Polish driving license. If you are under 18 years old, you'll need a written consent of your legal guardian or parent. If you are an international citizen, you'll have to provide a photocopy of your residence card or visa and any document that confirms your legal residency in Poland.
After you have fulfilled all of the requirements and passed all of the examinations, you are eligible to apply for an Polish driving license at the local voivodeship office. Bring your international driving permit, if you have it, and the other documents mentioned above. After you've provided all the required documents, your driving permit will be issued in two weeks. The driving license will be valid for 15 years for drivers who are younger than 70 and three years for those who are over 70. A driving license will make it easier to explore Poland and all it offers.
Registration
The rules of the road are relatively straightforward in Poland like they are in many European countries. Seatbelts are mandatory and drinking alcohol is strictly prohibited and speed limits are enforced. However, specific requirements for foreign drivers have to be considered. For instance foreigners wishing to obtain their driving licenses in Poland must first pass a medical examination and undergo practical training.
It is not an easy process, especially for those with a limited Polish proficiency. However, there are solutions such as driving classes provided by a variety of language schools or private tutors who provide individual instruction and help students prepare for the licensing test. There are also many online resources that can aid students in understanding Polish road signs, driving etiquette, and other aspects of driving.
A foreigner should possess all the required documents prior to applying for an driver's license. This includes a completed application form (which can be downloaded but must be filled out by hand in Polish which means that Google Translate is your best friend) A medical certificate stating that the applicant is fit to drive, and one current photograph that is of the right the requirements for size and format.
Additionally, if the candidate is planning to pursue a license under categories C or D, they must pass an oral and written exam that focuses on the types of vehicles and safety regulations. In addition the first aid course must be taken to learn how to respond to road accidents.
If you have an international driving permit or a foreign driving license, there's great news: they can continue to use it in Poland for 185 days from the date they have legal residency. Starting in June the policy will change. Drivers working for ridesharing services such as Bolt or Uber are now required to exchange their foreign driving license in exchange for one that is a Polish license.
The new law was introduced to improve safety for passengers and stop the transportation of passengers in vehicles driven by drivers who don't meet the necessary requirements. The new requirement has already been criticized by the ridesharing industry and politicians who believe that it will cause longer wait times for drivers and more expensive prices.