How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners who live in Poland are required to exchange their home driving license in their country for one issued by Poland. This is especially the case for those who spend more than 185 days as a legal resident (documented by local address registration or visa).
To accomplish this, they must pass a string of tests and examinations. The most important ones are:
Medical Examination
The process of getting a driver's license to drive in Poland is a challenging job, especially for those who are expats. The procedure starts with a medical examination to ensure you are physically fit to drive. Then you need to pass a written theory exam to prove your understanding of Polish road rules and safety rules. Finally, you will need to pass a series of practical driving lessons with a certified instructor in order to demonstrate your ability to safely operate an automobile on Polish roads.
Depending on the country you're from, the process can take up to 6 months, or one year or more. If you're a citizen of the EU or a member of the Vienna Convention, then your domestic driving license will be accepted in Poland without the need to exchange it. For citizens of countries not included in the Vienna Convention or the Vienna Convention, an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Even if you are a citizen 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 license into Polish, a copy of your passport, and a valid visa or proof of residence.
Once you have completed the necessary steps, you'll be given a driving test time at your local road traffic center (osrodek ruchu drogowego). The test for theory will be administered by an automated machine. It will comprise multiple-choice questions on traffic laws, road signs, and safety regulations. The practical test is conducted by a certified driver and requires you to demonstrate your ability to drive a car including changing gears, maneuvering corners and parking.
In June 2017, drivers working for ridesharing companies like Uber or Bolt will be required to hold a valid Polish driving license. The new laws will require drivers to possess a valid Polish license, or face car insurance issues. Drivers who reside outside of the Eurozone must also obtain a Polish license within 185 days of settling in Poland or risk having their license revoked.
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If you hold a driving licence issued in a country that is a party to the Road Traffic Convention, you can exchange it for an Polish licence after 185 days of legal residence and if your residence is confirmed by local address registration (Zameldowanie) or residence card, visa or any other document that confirms your right to reside. However, you will still need to pass the theoretical portion of the national examination regardless of whether your foreign license is accompanied by an International Driving Permit.
The theory exam is a multi-part test that consists of a written part and a practical one. Even the Polish aren't able to pass it, and many fail their first or second attempts despite a lot of study. There are a variety of companies that offer to prepare you for the test, but beware of their swindles - they may take your money and never give you the preparations.
Visit your nearest WORD location to schedule your theory test. You'll need your passport and the candidate driver profile (PKK) when you register. A fee for the theoretical part of the exam is 30 PLN.
After passing the theory test After passing the theory exam, you must register at your district authority office (osdzie Drogowy) for a practical test. The process typically takes about a week, particularly in cities with large populations. You will need your PKK passport, passport and a document that confirms that you have the right to remain in Poland (Zameldowanie).
If the practical exam has been passed, you can obtain your driving licence within some days. You'll need the same documents as you did to get your PKK along with a proof of the driving school. Driving in Poland is an enjoyable experience however, it's also a responsibility. To ensure that you drive safely, it is important to observe all road rules, including wearing your seat belt, paying attention to traffic signals and observing speed limits. If you do not, you will be punished by the police. It is essential to be aware of the Polish driving manners.
Practical Exam
You must first enroll in a driving academy and complete an extensive series of practical classes before you can sit for your test. You can find a driving school in your location by searching online or asking your friends for suggestions. The course runs for a couple of weeks and is extremely affordable. In the lessons, you'll learn to drive a vehicle and will be tested in driving theory.
The final step to get the Polish driving license is passing the state test. The test is held at the Province Road Traffic Centers. The exam is divided into two parts: the theory and practice. The theory part of the test is available in multiple languages, which makes it easier for non Polish speakers to prepare. During the practice part of the state examination you must demonstrate your ability to drive by demonstrating your skills and knowledge.
You'll also need to take a course in first aid and an eye test. Depending on the type of license you're seeking, you may need to take additional oral or written exams.
You must provide your birth certificate as well as identification documents when you apply for an Polish driving license. If you are not yet 18 years old, you must present a written consent from your parent or legal guardian. If you are a foreign citizen, you need to submit the photocopy of your visa or residence card along with a document confirming your legal stay in Poland, such as an official certificate of study or a visa stamp.
After you have fulfilled all the requirements and passed all examinations, you are eligible to apply for the Polish driving license at the local voivodeship office. Be sure to bring your international driving permit, if you have one, along with all of the documents mentioned above. Once you've submitted 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 for three years for those who are older than 70. Having a driving license will make it easier for you to move around Poland and explore all that Poland has to offer.
Registration
The rules of the road are relatively easy in Poland the same way as they are in a majority of European countries. Seatbelts are compulsory and alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited, and speed limits are enforced. However, specific requirements for foreign drivers have to be taken into consideration. For example foreigners wishing to obtain their driving licenses in Poland must first pass a medical exam and undergo practical training.
The process is not without challenges, especially for those who don't speak in Polish. However, there are solutions such as driving courses provided by a variety of language schools or private tutors that offer individualized instruction and prepare students for the licensing examination. Additionally there are a variety of online resources that can help students to comprehend Polish road signs and driving behavior.
A foreigner should have all the required documents before applying for an driver's license. Google Translate can help you complete the application form which can be downloaded, but must be filled out by hand.
If the applicant wants to obtain a license for categories C or D, they will also need to pass an oral and written exam that covers the types of vehicles and safety regulations. To be able to respond to road accidents, the applicant must also complete a course on first aid.
There's good news for those who have an international driving permit or foreign driving license you can use it in Poland up to 185 days after the date of legal residence. Starting in June the policy will change. Drivers working for ridesharing services such as Bolt or Uber are now required to exchange their driving licenses from abroad for a Polish license.
The new requirement was implemented to increase safety for passengers and stop people from being transported by vehicles driven by drivers that don't meet the standards. It has already been criticized by ridesharing companies and politicians who believe it will result in longer wait periods for drivers and more expensive prices.