How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners living in Poland are required to exchange their driving license in their country for one issued by Poland. This is particularly the case for those who have spent more than 180 days as a legally resident (documented by local address registration, visa or residence permit).
To accomplish this, they must pass a series tests and exams. The most important ones are:
Medical Examination
To get a driver's licence In Poland is a difficult job, especially for expats. The process begins with a medical exam to ensure that you are physically fit enough to drive. You must then pass a written test to prove your knowledge of Polish safety and road regulations. You must also undergo a series of driving lessons with an instructor who is certified to demonstrate that you are able to safely operate a vehicle on Polish roads.
Depending on where you are from, the process may take as little as 6 months, or one year or more. If you're a citizen of the EU or a member of the Vienna Convention, then your driver's license from your country will be accepted in Poland without needing to exchange it. In addition, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is suggested for citizens of countries that aren't part of the convention.
Even if you're an a resident of one of these nations, you still have to obtain a PKK as well as be able to pass a medical exam. You'll also need to bring a translation of your driver's licence into Polish, as well as an original passport and proof of residency or an official visa.
Once you've completed all steps, you will be given an appointment for your driving test at your local road traffic centre (osrodek ruchu drogowego). The test will be administered on an automated machine. It will comprise multiple-choice tests on traffic laws, road signs and safety regulations. The test in practice will be conducted by a licensed instructor. It will require you to demonstrate your ability to operate a car and change gears, driving around curves and parking.
In June 2017, drivers working for ridesharing companies such as Uber or Bolt will be required to hold an active Polish driving license. New laws will force drivers to possess a valid Polish driving license or face insurance problems. 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 are a holder of an driving license issued by an country which is a signatory to the Road Traffic Convention you can exchange it with an Polish license after 185 legal days, as long as your residency is documented by the registration of your address in Poland (Zameldowanie) or residence card, visa or any other document that confirms your right to remain. You must still pass the part that is theoretical of the national exam unless you have a foreign driving license which is accompanied by an International Driving Permit.
The theory test is a multiple-part test comprised of a written portion and a practice one. It is notoriously difficult, even for Polish people, and a majority of people fail on their first or second try, despite much studying. There are many companies offering to prepare you for the test, but beware of their swindles - they may be able to take your money and not provide you with the necessary preparations.
To schedule your theory exam to take it, go to the nearest WORD (Wojewodzki Osrodek Ruchu Drogowego). When you register, you'll require a passport as well as your profile as a driver candidate (PKK). The fee for the theoretical portion of the test is 30 PLN.
After passing the theory test After passing the theory exam, you must register at the district authority office (osdzie (drogowy) (drogowy) for a practical examination. The process usually takes a few weeks, particularly in cities with large populations. At this point, you'll need an PKK along with a passport, and a document confirming your right to reside in Poland (Zameldowanie or Residence Card).
If the practical exam has been completed, you will be able to get your driving license within some days. You'll need the exact documents you used to register your PKK plus a certificate of the driving school. Driving in Poland can be full of excitement, but also a great deal of responsibility. If you wish to drive safely, you must adhere to all the rules of the road. this includes using seat belts, adhering to speed limits, and obeying traffic lights. You'll be penalized by the police if you don't. This is why it is so important to master the Polish driving etiquette.
Practical Exam
You'll need to enroll at an accredited driving school and then complete an extensive series of practical classes before you are able to take your test. You can search online for driving schools in your area, or ask friends for suggestions. The course is for a couple of weeks and is very affordable. In the lessons, you'll learn to drive a vehicle and will be tested in driving theory.
The final step in obtaining the Polish driving license is passing the state exam. It is administered at the Province Road Traffic Centers. The exam has two parts of theory and practice. The theory portion of the exam is offered in multiple languages, which makes it easier for non Polish speakers to prepare. When you take the state exam you'll need to demonstrate your driving skills and understanding.
You'll also have to complete a first aid course and have an eye test. Depending on the type of license you're planning to pursue, you might need to take additional oral or written tests.
During the process of getting a Polish license, you must also submit an original birth certificate as well as identification proof. If you are under 18 years old, you must present a written consent from your parent or legal guardian. If you are a non-native citizen, you must provide the photocopy of your visa or residence card and the document that confirms your legal residence in Poland like the certificate of studies or a visa stamp.
After you have completed all the requirements and passed all of the examinations, you are eligible to apply for the Polish driving license at your local Voivodeship office. Be sure to bring your international driving permit if you have one, and all of the necessary documents listed above. Once you have all of the necessary documents the office will process them and issue your driving license in about two weeks. The driving license will be valid for 15 years for those who are younger than 70 and three years for those who are older than 70. A driving permit will make it easier to explore Poland and everything it has to offer.
Registration
The rules of the road are easy in Poland like they are in many European countries. Seatbelts are mandatory, alcohol consumption is strictly forbidden and speed limits are enforced. However, certain specific requirements for foreign drivers need to be taken into account. For instance, foreigners wishing to get a driver's license in Poland must undergo a medical examination and take practical classes before they can sit for the state test.
The process isn't without challenges, particularly for those who aren't fluent in Polish. However, there are führerschein in polen kosten as driving classes offered by various private tutors or language schools who provide individual instruction and help students prepare for the licensing test. Additionally, there are various online resources that can assist students understand Polish road signs and driving behavior.
Foreigners must have all the required documents prior to applying for an driver's license. Google Translate can help you complete the application form which can be downloaded, but must be completed by hand.
If a candidate wishes to be licensed in categories C or D they must pass an oral and written test that covers vehicle types and safety regulations. To learn how to deal with road accidents, the applicant must also complete a course on first aid.
A good thing for those with an international driving permit or foreign driving license: they can use it in Poland for up to 185 days after the date of their legal residence. In June, this will change. Drivers who are employed by ride-sharing companies like Bolt or Uber are now required to exchange their driving licenses from abroad in exchange for a Polish license.
The new requirement was introduced to ensure the safety of passengers and stop the transportation of passengers on vehicles operated by drivers who don't meet the required requirements. But it has already been criticised by ridesharing companies as well as politicians who believe it will result in longer waiting times and more expensive costs for drivers.