How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners living in Poland have to exchange their home country's driving license to an Polish one. This is particularly the case for people who spend more than 185 days as a legal resident (documented by local address registration or visa).
To achieve this, they must to pass a variety of tests and exams. The most important are:
Medical Exam
To get a driver's licence to drive in Poland is a daunting task, especially for foreigners. The process begins with a medical examination to ensure that you are physically fit enough to drive. You will then have to pass a written test to prove your understanding of Polish safety and road rules. You will also need to take a series driving lessons with a certified instructor to demonstrate that you are able to safely operate a car on Polish roads.
Depending on the country you're from, the process could take as little as 6 months, or a year or more. If you're an EU citizen or one of the countries that are parties to the Vienna Convention, your domestic driving license will be recognized in Poland without the need to exchange it. Alternatively you can apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) is suggested for citizens of countries that aren't part of the convention.
However, even if are from one of these countries, you will need to obtain a PKK (Profile Kandydata Na Kierowce - Driver Candidate Profile) and undergo an exam for medical conditions. You will also need to bring an official translation of your driver's license in Polish and a copy of your passport, and a valid visa or proof of residence.
Once you've completed all steps, you will be given an appointment for your driving test at the local road traffic centre (osrodek ruchu drogowego). The theory test will be administered by an automated machine. It will consist of multiple-choice questions 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 car, including changing gears, navigating curves and parking.
In June 2017, drivers who work for ride-sharing companies such as Uber or Bolt will be required to have a valid Polish driving license. New laws will force drivers to have a valid Polish driving license or face insurance issues. Drivers who are not part of the Eurozone must also get an Polish license within 185 days of settling in Poland or risk having their licenses exchanged.
Theory Exam
If you hold a driving licence issued in a country that is a party to the Road Traffic Convention, you can exchange it for the Polish license after 185 consecutive days of legal residency in the event that your residence is proven by a local address registration (Zameldowanie) or residence card, visa or any other document confirming your right to remain. However, you'll be required to pass the theory portion of the national examination in the event that your foreign license is attached to an International Driving Permit.
The theory test is a multi-part test that consists of a written part and a practical part. Even the Polish find it difficult and many fail on their first or second attempt despite a lot of study. There are many companies that offer to help you prepare for the exam, but beware of frauds by these companies - they might be able to take your money and not provide you with the necessary preparations.
Visit your nearest WORD location to arrange your theory test. When you register, you'll need a passport along with your candidate driver profile (PKK). A fee for the theoretical portion of the test is 30 PLN.
After passing the theory test You must then register at your district authority office (osdzie Drogowy) to pass a practical exam. In most cases, this process will take about a week, especially in big cities. You'll require your PKK passport, passport and a document that proves you are legally entitled to stay in Poland (Zameldowanie).
If the practical exam has been passed, you can get your driving licence in some days. To do this you will have to bring the same documents that you did for the registration of your PKK along with a valid certificate from the driving school. Driving in Poland is full of excitement, but also the responsibility. To ensure that you drive safely it is essential to follow all road rules, including wearing your seat belt, paying attention to traffic signals, and obeying speed limits. If you do not you will be penalized by the police. It is crucial to understand the Polish driving manners.
Practical Exam
Before you can take the test you must be enrolled in an driving school and pass some practical lessons. You can search the internet for driving schools in your area or ask for recommendations. The course is for a few weeks and is extremely affordable. In the course you will be taught how to drive a car and be tested on the driving theory.
The final step to get an Polish driving license is passing the state exam. The test is held at the Province Road Traffic Centers. The exam has two parts: theory and practice. eu führerschein polen kosten of the test is available in multiple languages, making it easier for non Polish people to prepare. During the practice part of the state exam you must demonstrate your ability to drive by showing your skills and knowledge.
You'll also have to complete a first aid course and take an eye test. You may need to pass oral or written tests depending on the type license you're pursuing.
When you apply for a Polish license, you must also submit a copy of your birth certificate and proof of identity. If you are under 18 years old, you must present a written consent from your legal guardian or parent. If you are an international citizen, you will need to submit a photocopy your residence card or visa and any document that confirms your legal residence in Poland.
After you have fulfilled all the requirements and passed all of the tests, you can apply for an Polish driving license at your local voivodeship office. Bring your international driving license, if you have it, and the other documents listed above. After you've provided all the required documents, your driving license will be issued within two weeks. The license is valid for 15 years for drivers under the age of 70, and three years for those who are older than 70. Having a driving license will make it much easier to travel around Poland and explore all that it has to offer.
Registration
As with most countries in Europe the rules of the roads in Poland are generally straightforward. Seatbelts are mandatory, alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited, and speed limits are enforced. There are some requirements to be adhered to by foreign drivers. For example foreigners wishing to get their driving licenses in Poland must first pass a medical examination and take practical lessons.
The process is not without challenges, particularly for those who aren't fluent in Polish. There are other options available, such as driving classes provided by language schools or private tutors. These classes offer specific instruction that prepares students for the license exam. Additionally there are a variety of online resources that can assist a student to understand Polish road signs and driving manners.
A foreigner should possess all the required documents required to apply for an driver's license. Google Translate can assist you to fill out the application form that can be downloaded, but is required to be completed in person.
Furthermore, if a candidate intends to pursue a license under categories C or D, they need to take an oral and a written test that focuses on the type of vehicle and safety regulations. In addition the first aid course is required to learn how to react to road accidents.
If you're a holder of an international driving permit or a foreign driving license, there's some good news: they'll be able to use it in Poland for 185 days after their date of legal residency. However, from June, this will change: drivers working for ridesharing firms like Uber or Bolt are legally required to exchange their license from abroad for one in the Polish one.
The new law was enacted to improve passenger safety and prevent passengers from being transported in vehicles driven by drivers that don't meet the standards. However, it has been criticised by ridesharing companies as well as politicians who believe it will result in longer waiting times and higher prices for drivers.