How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners who live in Poland have to exchange their home 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 by an address registration for local addresses or visa, or a residence permit).
To do this they must pass a series tests and examinations. The most important are:
Medical Exam
It can be difficult to get a driving permit in Poland, especially for foreigners. The process begins with a medical test to ensure that you are physically fit enough to drive. After that, you must pass a written theory exam to demonstrate your knowledge of Polish road rules and safety rules. Then, you'll have to pass a series of practical driving lessons with a certified instructor to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a vehicle on Polish roads.
Depending on the country you're from, the process may take up to 6 months or up to one year or more. Fortunately, if you're an EU citizen or from one of the countries that are parties to the Vienna Convention, your domestic driving license will be accepted in Poland without the need to exchange it. Alternately you can apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) is a must for those who reside in countries that aren't part of the convention.
Even if you're a citizen of one of these countries you'll still need to obtain a PKK as well as pass a medical examination. You will also be required to bring a translated version of your driver's licence in Polish as well as an original passport and proof of residency, or an official visa.
After you have completed all the required steps, you will be given a driving test time at your local road traffic center (osrodek ruchu drogowego). The test will be taken on an automated machine and will comprise multiple choice questions regarding traffic laws such as road signs, safety rules. The practical test is conducted by a licensed driver. It requires you to demonstrate your ability to drive a vehicle such as changing gears, driving around corners and parking.
Currently, drivers employed by ridesharing firms like Uber or Bolt are not required to possess an Polish driving license, however as of June 2017 the situation will change. New laws will require drivers to hold an active Polish driving license or face insurance problems. In addition, drivers who are 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 the driving license of a country that is a signatory of the Road Traffic Convention you can exchange it with an Polish licence after 185 legal days, provided 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. However, you'll have to pass the theoretical portion of the national test in the event that your foreign license is attached to an International Driving Permit.
The theory exam is a multiple-part test comprised of a written portion and a practical one. It is notoriously difficult even for Polish people, and most of test takers fail on their first or second attempt, despite much studying. There are a variety of companies that offer preparation for the test, but beware of scams - they could take your money and never provide the training you need.
To book your theory test, visit your local WORD (Wojewodzki Osrodek Ruchu Drogowego). During the registration you will need a passport along with your candidate driver profile (PKK). The cost 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) to pass a practical exam. The process typically lasts a few weeks particularly in larger cities. At this point, you'll require a PKK, a passport and a document that confirms your right to remain in Poland (Zameldowanie or Residence Card).
If you pass the practical test, you will receive your driving license within few days. To do this you will need to present the same documents you have used to register your PKK, plus a certificate from the driving school. Driving in Poland is a lot of fun but it's also a responsibility. To drive safely was kostet ein führerschein in polen is essential to observe all road rules, which includes wearing a seat belt, following traffic signals and observing speed limits. If you don't, you will be punished by the police. This is why it is so important to learn Polish driving manners.
Practical Exam
You'll need to enroll at an accredited driving school and then complete the series of lessons before you are able to take your test. You can search the internet for driving schools in your area or ask around for recommendations. The course is inexpensive and lasts a few weeks. During the lessons, you will learn how to drive a car and also be assessed on the theory of driving.
The final step to get an Polish driving license is passing the state test. The test is held at the Province Road Traffic Centers. The test consists of two parts that are practice and theory. The theory portion is offered in many languages, making it easy for non-Polish-speaking candidates to prepare. During the practice part of the state exam, you must demonstrate your ability to drive by showing your abilities and understanding.
You'll also need to pass a first-aid course and take an eye test. Depending on the kind of license you're planning to pursue, you might need to take additional oral or written exams.
You must submit your birth certificate and proof of identity when applying for an Polish driving license. If you are under 18 years old, you need to have a written consent from your parent or legal guardian. If you are a foreign citizen, you must submit an image of your residence card or visa as well as the document that confirms your legal stay in Poland for example, a certificate of studies or visa stamp.
You can apply for your Polish driving licence at the local Voivodeship Office when you have met all the requirements and passed the examinations. Bring your international driving permit If you have one, and the other documents listed above. Once you have all the necessary documents the office will review them and issue your driver's license within two weeks. The license will be valid for 15 years for drivers under the age of 70, and three years for those who are older than 70. A driving permit will make it easier to explore Poland and all it offers.
Registration
The rules of the road are relatively straightforward in Poland the same way as they are in a majority of European countries. Seatbelts are compulsory and alcohol consumption is strictly forbidden and speed limits are enforced. However, certain specific requirements for foreign drivers have to be taken into consideration. For instance, foreigners wishing to obtain a driving license in Poland must pass a medical examination and take practical classes before they can sit for the state examination.
It is not an easy process, especially for those with limited Polish proficiency. But there are solutions, such as driving classes provided by a variety of language schools or private tutors, which provide individualized instruction and prepare students for the licensing examination. In addition there are a variety of online resources that can help students understand Polish road signs and driving manners.
A foreigner should possess all the required documents before applying for an driver's license. This includes the completed application form (which is available for download but must be completed by hand in Polish and Polish, so Google Translate is your best option) and a medical certificate stating that the applicant is fit to drive, as well as a current photograph that meets the requirements for size and format.
If a candidate wishes 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. In addition, a first aid course must be attended to learn how to react to road accidents.
For those who have 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 from the date they have legal residency. Beginning in June, this will change. Drivers who are employed by ridesharing services such as Bolt or Uber are now required to swap their foreign driving license for the Polish license.
The new law was enacted to enhance safety of passengers and stop passengers from being transported in vehicles driven by drivers who do not meet the required requirements. It has already been criticized by riders and politicians who believe it will cause longer wait periods for drivers and more expensive prices.