How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners who reside in Poland are required to exchange their driving license to one issued by Poland. This is particularly the case for those who spend more than the 185-day limit as a legal resident (documented by local address registration, visa or residence permit).
To do this, they must pass a string of tests and exams. The most important of these are:
Medical Exam
It can be difficult to get a driving license in Poland particularly for foreigners. The process starts with a medical examination to determine if you're physically fit enough to drive. The next step is to pass a written test to prove your understanding of Polish road rules and safety regulations. Then, you'll have to pass a series of practical driving lessons with a qualified instructor to demonstrate your ability to safely operate the vehicle on Polish roads.
Depending on your origin, the process could take 6 months or even longer. If you are 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 having to exchange it. Alternately, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for those who reside in countries that are not part of the Vienna Convention.
But, even if you are from one of these countries, you will need to obtain a PKK (Profile Kandydata Na Kilorowce - Driver Candidate Profile) and pass a medical exam. You'll also have to bring a translated version of your driver's licence in Polish as well as an original passport and proof of residence or an official visa.
After you've completed all steps, you will receive a date for your driving test at your local road traffic centre (osrodek ruchu drogowego). The test for theory will be administered by an automated machine. It will consist of multiple-choice questions on traffic laws, road signs, and safety rules. The practical test will be conducted by a certified instructor and will require you to demonstrate your ability to operate a car that includes changing gears, driving around curves and parking.
In 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 that drivers possess an active Polish license, or else face issues with car insurance. Drivers who reside outside of the Eurozone must also get an Polish license within 185 days after settling in Poland or risk having their license revoked.
Theory Exam
If you own a driver's license issued by a country that is a member to the Road Traffic Convention, you can exchange it for the Polish license after 185 consecutive days of legally residing, provided that your residency is confirmed by local address registration (Zameldowanie) or residence card, visa or any other document confirming your right remain. You must still pass the theoretical portion of the national test in the event that you hold an international driving permit that is accompanied by an International Driving Permit.
The theory test is a multi-part test that consists of a written portion and a practice one. It is notoriously difficult, even for Polish people, and the majority of test takers fail on their first or second try despite a lot of study. Many companies will assist you in preparing for the test. Beware of scams that promise to take your money, but not provide you with the training.
To schedule your theory exam to take it, go to the nearest WORD (Wojewodzki Osrodek Ruchudrogowego). When you register, you'll need a passport along with your profile as a driver candidate (PKK). A fee for the theoretical part of the test is 30 PLN.
After passing the theory test, you will need to register at your district authority (osdzie). Drogowy) to pass a practical exam. This process usually lasts a few weeks particularly in cities with large populations. In this stage, you'll need an PKK as well as a passport and a document that confirms your right to reside in Poland (Zameldowanie or Residence Card).
After passing the practical test, you will receive your driving licence within a few days. You'll need the same documents that you used to get your PKK along with a proof of the driving school. Driving in Poland is an enjoyable experience but it's also a responsibilities. If you wish to drive safely, you must obey all the rules of the road. including wearing seat belts, adhering to speed limits and obeying traffic signals. If you do not you will be penalized by the police. This is why it is important to learn Polish driving manners.
Practical Exam
Before you can pass the practical test you must be enrolled in driving school and complete a number of practical lessons. You can search the internet for driving schools in your area, or ask friends for recommendations. The course lasts for a couple of weeks and is affordable. During the lessons, you will learn how to drive a car and also be assessed on the theory of driving.
The state exam which is the final step in obtaining a Polish license, is conducted at the Province Road Traffic Centers (Wojewodzki Osrodki Ruchu Drogowego). The exam is divided into two parts: theory, and practice. The theory portion of the test is available in several languages, which makes it easier for non Polish natives to prepare. During the practice part of the state examination you must demonstrate your ability to drive by showing your skills and knowledge.
You'll also need to pass a course in first aid and eye examination. Based on the kind of license you're planning to pursue, you might need to pass additional written or oral 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, you must have a written consent from your parent or legal guardian. If you are an international citizen, you'll need to submit a photocopy your residence card or visa along with any document that demonstrates your legal residency in Poland.
You can apply for your Polish driving licence at the local Voivodeship Office when you have met all the requirements and passed the examinations. Make sure you bring your international driving permit if you have one, along with all the required documents mentioned above. After you've submitted all required documents, your driving licence will be issued within 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. fahrschule polen driving license will make it easier for you to explore Poland and all it offers.
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 required and alcohol consumption is not permitted and speed limits are rigorously enforced. There are certain requirements to be adhered to by foreign drivers. For instance, foreigners who want to obtain a driving license in Poland must undergo a medical examination and practical lessons before they can take the state exam.
The process is not without challenges, particularly for those who aren't fluent in Polish. But there are solutions, such as driving courses provided by a variety of private tutors or language schools, which provide individualized instruction and prepare students for the licensing examination. Additionally there are numerous online resources that can help a student to understand Polish road signs and driving manners.
A foreign national should have all of the necessary documents before applying for an driver's license. Google Translate can assist you to complete the application form which is available for download, but must be completed by hand.
If a candidate wishes to get a license in 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 learn how to deal with road accidents, the driver must also complete a course on first aid.
Good news for those with an international driving permit or foreign driving licence: they can use it in Poland for up to 185 days after the date of their legal residence. However, beginning in June, this will change. drivers working for ridesharing firms such as Uber or Bolt are legally required to exchange their foreign license for one that is a Polish one.
The new law was introduced to ensure the safety of passengers and stop the transportation of passengers on vehicles operated by drivers who do not meet the required standards. It has already been criticized by the ridesharing industry and politicians who believe it will cause longer wait times for drivers as well as more expensive prices.