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 relevant for those who have resided in Poland for more than 185 consecutive days (documented with the registration of a local address or visa, or a residence permit).
To achieve this, they must to pass a number of tests and exams. The most important are:
Medical Exam
To get a driver's licence in Poland is a challenging task, especially for those who are expats. The procedure begins with a medical exam to determine if you're physically fit for driving. You must then take a written test to demonstrate your knowledge of Polish safety and road rules. Then, you'll have to pass a series of driving classes with a certified instructor to prove that you can safely operate a vehicle on Polish roads.
Based on the country of your birth The process can take up to 6 months or longer. Luckily, if you are 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. For citizens of countries that aren't included in the Vienna Convention, an International Driving Permit is recommended.
However, even if you are from one of these countries, you'll require a PKK (Profile Kandydata Na Kierowce - Driver Candidate Profile) and pass a medical exam. You'll also have to carry a translation of your driver's licence in Polish and an original passport and proof of residence or a valid visa.
After you have completed the necessary steps, you'll be given a driving test date at your local road traffic center (osrodek ruchu drogowego). The theoretical test will be performed on an automated device and will consist of multiple-choice questions about traffic laws such as road signs, safety regulations. The test on the practical side is administered by a licensed driver and requires you to demonstrate the ability to drive a vehicle including changing gears, maneuvering corners and parking.
In June 2017, drivers who work for ridesharing companies such as Uber or Bolt will be required to possess a valid Polish driving license. New laws will require drivers to have a valid Polish driving license or face insurance issues. Additionally, drivers from outside of the Eurozone must obtain a Polish licence within 185 days of settling in Poland, or face exchanging their license.
Theory Exam
If you are a holder of a driving licence issued by a country that is a signatory of the Road Traffic Convention you can swap it out for a Polish license after 185 legal days, provided your residency is documented through an address registration for your local area (Zameldowanie), residence card, visa, or any other document that confirms your right to remain. However, you will still be required to pass the theory portion of the national test, unless your foreign licence is accompanied by an International Driving Permit.
The theory test is a multiple-part test comprised of a written part and a practical one. Even the Polish find it difficult and many fail on their first or second attempt despite a lot of study. Many companies offer to 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 führerschein in polen kosten must visit your local WORD (Wojewodzki Osrodek Ruchudrogowego). At the time of registration, you will require a passport as well as your candidate driver profile (PKK). The fee for the part that is theoretical is 30 PLN.
After passing the theory test, you need to register at your district authority (osdzie). Drogowy) for a practical exam. The process typically takes about a week, especially in large cities. You will need your PKK along with a passport and a document that proves you are able to remain in Poland (Zameldowanie).
After passing the practical test, you will receive your driving license within couple of days. You will need the same documents you used to get your PKK and a certification from the driving school. Driving in Poland is a lot of fun, but it is also a responsibility. If you want to drive safely, you must obey all the rules of the road - this includes using seat belts, adhering to speed limits and obeying traffic signals. You will be penalized by the police if you don't. This is why it is so important to learn Polish driving manners.
Practical Exam
You will need to first enroll in an academy for driving and take an extensive series of practical classes before you can take your practical test. You can find a driving school in your location by searching online or asking your friends for suggestions. The course runs for a few weeks and is very affordable. In the lessons, you will learn how to drive a car and be tested on the driving theory.
The final step to obtain a Polish driving license is the state exam. The test is held at the Province Road Traffic Centers. The exam has two parts of theory and practice. The theory part is available in several languages, making it easier for non-Polish-speaking candidates to prepare. During the state exam practice you'll have to demonstrate your driving skills and understanding.
You'll also have to pass a first aid course and take an eye test. You may also need to pass oral or written tests based on the type of license you're pursuing.
You must provide your birth certificate as well as identification documents when applying for the Polish driving license. If führerschein in polen kosten are not yet 18 years old, you need to have an official written consent from your parent or legal guardian. If you are a foreign citizen, you must submit a photocopy of your residence card or visa and the document that confirms your legal residence in Poland, such as an official certificate of study or a visa stamp.
You can apply for a Polish driving licence at the local Voivodeship Office after you have fulfilled all requirements and passed the examinations. Make sure to bring your international driving license if you have one, as well as all of the documents listed above. After you've provided all the required documents, your driving license will be issued in two weeks. The license is valid for 15 years for drivers younger than 70 and for three years for drivers older than 70. Having a driving license will make it easier for you to get around Poland and explore all that it has to offer.
Registration
The rules of the road are simple in Poland the same way as they are in most European countries. Seatbelts are mandatory and alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited, and speed limits are enforced. There are a few requirements that must be met by foreign drivers. For instance foreigners wishing to obtain their driving licenses in Poland must first pass a medical examination and then take a practical driving course.
The process isn't without challenges, particularly 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 help students prepare for the licensing examination. Additionally there are a variety of online resources that can help students understand Polish road signs and driving etiquette.
A foreign national should have all of the necessary documents required to apply for the driver's license. Google Translate can assist you to complete the application form that is available for download but must be filled out by hand.
Additionally, if the candidate is planning to pursue a license in categories C or D, they must also take an oral and a written test that is focused on vehicle types and safety regulations. Additionally an initial aid course is required to learn how to respond to road accidents.
Good news for those with an international driving permit or foreign driving license that they are able to use it in Poland up to 185 calendar days after the date of their legal residence. Starting in June the rules will change. Drivers who are employed by ridesharing services like Bolt or Uber are now required to exchange their driving licenses from abroad to one that is a Polish license.
The new law was enacted to increase safety for passengers and to prevent people from being transported in vehicles driven by drivers that do not meet the required standards. But it has already been criticised by ridesharing companies as well as politicians who believe it could lead to longer waiting times and more expensive costs for drivers.