How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners who live in Poland have to exchange their home country's driving license for one issued by Poland. This is particularly applicable to those who have lived in Poland for more than 185 consecutive days (documented with an address registration for local addresses or visa, or a residence permit).
To do that they need to pass several tests and exams. The most important of these are:
Medical Examination
The process of getting a driver's license to drive in Poland is a difficult job, especially for foreigners. The process begins with a medical exam to determine if you are physically fit enough to drive. The next step is to take a written test to prove your knowledge of Polish safety and road regulations. You must also take a series driving lessons with an instructor who is certified to prove that you are able to safely operate a vehicle on Polish roads.
Depending on the country you're from, the process may take up to 6 months or an entire year or more. If you're a resident 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. For those who are citizens of countries that are not included in the Vienna Convention, an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Even if you're a citizen of one of these nations, you'll still need to get a PKK and pass a medical examination. You'll also have to bring a translated version of your driver's license into Polish, as well as a copy your passport and proof of residency, or a valid visa.
After you've completed all steps, you will be given an appointment for your driving test at the local road traffic centre (osrodek ruchu drogowego). was kostet ein führerschein in polen for theory will be administered on an automated machine. It will consist of multiple-choice questions on traffic laws, road signs and safety regulations. The test in practice will be conducted by a licensed instructor and will require you to demonstrate your ability to operate a car and change gears, maneuvering around curves and parking.
As of June 2017, drivers who work for ride-sharing companies such as Uber or Bolt will be required to hold a valid Polish driving license. The new laws will require drivers to have an active Polish driving license or face insurance issues. Drivers from outside the Eurozone must also get an Polish license within 185 days after settling in Poland or risk having their licenses exchanged.
Theory Exam
If you have a driving license issued in the country that is a party to the Road Traffic Convention, you can exchange it for a Polish licence after 185 days of legal residence and if your residence is proven by a local address registration (Zameldowanie) or a residence card, visa or other document confirming your right reside. You must still pass the theoretical portion of the national exam unless you have a foreign driving license that is accompanied by a International Driving Permit.
The theory exam is a multi-part test consisting of a written part and a practical part. It is notoriously difficult, even for Polish people, and most of people fail on their first or second attempt, despite much studying. There are a variety of companies offering to help you prepare for the exam, but beware of their swindles - they may be able to take your money and not give you the preparations.
Visit your nearest WORD location to plan your test. You will need your passport and the candidate driver profile (PKK) during registration. The fee for the theoretical portion of the test is 30 PLN.
After passing the theory test You must then register at the district authority office (osdzie (drogowy), to take a test. The process usually lasts a few weeks especially in large cities. You will require your PKK along with a passport and a document that confirms that you are able to remain in Poland (Zameldowanie).
If the practical exam has been passed, you can obtain your driving licence within just a few days. To do this you will have to bring the same documents that you have used to register your PKK along with a valid certificate from the driving school. Driving in Poland is a lot of fun, but it is also a responsibility. To ensure that you drive safely, it is important to follow all road rules, which includes wearing your seat belt, paying attention to traffic signals and observing speed limits. If you don't you will be reprimanded by the police. This is why it is important to learn the Polish driving etiquette.
Practical Exam
Before you can take the practical exam you must be enrolled in driving school and complete some practical lessons. You can search the internet for driving schools in your area, or ask friends for suggestions. The course is for a few weeks and is affordable. During the lessons you will be taught how to drive a vehicle and be assessed on the theory of driving.
The final step in obtaining a Polish driving license is passing the state test. It is administered at the Province Road Traffic Centers. The test is divided into two parts: the theory, and practice. The theory portion of the exam is offered in several languages, which makes it easier for non Polish people to prepare. During the practice part of the state test, you must demonstrate your ability to drive by demonstrating your abilities and knowledge.
You will also be required to complete a first aid and an eye exam. Depending on the kind of license you're pursuing, you may have to pass additional written or oral tests.
You must provide your birth certificate as well as evidence of identity when applying for an Polish driving license. If you are younger than 18, you must have written permission from your legal guardian or parent. If you are a non-native citizen, you must submit a photocopy of your visa or residence card along with the document that confirms your legal residence in Poland, such as a certificate of studies or visa stamp.
You can apply for your Polish driving licence at the local Voivodeship Office once you have met all the requirements and passed the examinations. Make sure to bring your international driving permit, if you have one, and all of the documents mentioned above. After you have all the necessary documents the office will review them and issue your driver's license in about two weeks. The driving license is valid for 15 years for drivers who are younger than 70 and for three years for those who are older than 70. Having a driving license will make it easier to travel around Poland and explore all that it offers.
Registration
The rules of the road are easy in Poland like they are in many European countries. Seatbelts are mandatory and alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited and speed limits are strictly enforced. However, some specific requirements for foreign drivers have to be taken into consideration. For instance foreigners looking to get their driving licenses in Poland must first pass a medical test and undergo practical training.
The process does not come without difficulties, particularly for those who don't speak in Polish. There are other options, for instance, driving lessons offered by language schools or private tutors. These classes offer individualized instruction to prepare students for the licensing exam. Additionally, there are various online resources that can help students to comprehend Polish road signs and driving etiquette.
Foreigners must have all of the necessary documents before applying for an driver's license. Google Translate can help you fill out the application form that is available for download, but is required to be completed in person.
If the applicant wants to be licensed in categories C or D, they will also need to pass an oral and written test that covers vehicle types and safety regulations. In addition the first aid course must be attended to learn how to respond to road accidents.
There's good news for those who have an international driving permit or foreign driving licence: they can use it in Poland up to 185 calendar days after the date of legal residence. Beginning in June the policy will change. Drivers working for ridesharing services like Bolt or Uber are now required to exchange their driving licenses from abroad to the Polish license.
The new requirement was introduced to increase safety for passengers and stop the transportation of people on vehicles driven by drivers who don't meet the requirements. But it has already been criticized by ridesharing companies and politicians who believe it could lead to longer waiting times and more expensive prices for drivers.