How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners who reside in Poland find themselves having to exchange their home country's driving license for one in the Polish one. This is especially true for people who spend more than 180 days as a legally resident (documented by local address registration or visa).
To achieve this, they must to pass a variety of tests and tests. The most important are:
Medical Exam
The process of getting a driver's license In Poland is a difficult task, especially for those who are expats. The process starts with a medical examination to determine if you're physically fit to drive. You must then take a written test to prove your understanding of Polish safety and road regulations. You must also take a series driving lessons with an instructor who is certified to show that you can safely operate a vehicle on Polish roads.
Depending on where you're from, the process could take as little as 6 months or up to one year or more. If you're a resident of the EU or a member of the Vienna Convention, then your domestic driving licence will be accepted in Poland without needing to exchange it. Alternatively an International Driving Permit (IDP) is a must for those who reside in countries that aren't part of the convention.
Even if you are a citizen of one of these countries, you will still need 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 a copy your passport, and an original visa or proof of residence.
After you have completed all the steps, you will receive an appointment date for your driving test at your local road traffic center (osrodek ruchu drogowego). The theory test will be conducted on an automated machine. It will consist of multiple-choice tests on traffic laws, road signs and safety rules. The test in practice will be administered by a certified instructor and will require you to demonstrate your ability to operate a vehicle that includes changing gears, navigating curves and parking.
In June 2017, drivers working for ridesharing companies like Uber or Bolt will be required to have an active Polish driving license. New laws will force drivers to hold an active Polish driving license or face insurance issues. In addition, drivers who are outside of the Eurozone will require an Polish licence within 180 days of arriving in Poland or risk exchanging their license.
Theory Exam
If you hold an driving license issued by a country which is a signatory to the Road Traffic Convention you can exchange it with a Polish licence after 185 days, as long as your residency is documented by the registration of your address in Poland (Zameldowanie), visa, residence card or any other document that confirms your right to remain. You will still have to pass the part that is theoretical of the national test in the event that you hold an international driving permit that is accompanied by a International Driving Permit.
The theory exam is a multi-part test consisting of a written portion and a practical one. It is notoriously difficult even for the Polish people, and most of them fail on their first or second attempt even after a lot of studying. There are several firms that promise preparation for the test, but beware of frauds by these companies - they might take your money and never provide you with the necessary preparations.
To schedule your theory exam, visit your nearest WORD (Wojewodzki Osrodek Ruchudrogowego). You will require a passport and a candidate driver profile (PKK) when you register. The fee for the theoretical portion of the test is 30 PLN.
After passing the theory exam, you need to sign up at the district authority office (osdzie Drogowy) to pass a practical exam. In most cases this process will take about a week particularly in large cities. You'll require your PKK along with a passport and a document confirming that you are able to stay in Poland (Zameldowanie).
After passing the test, you will receive your driving license within a few working days. To obtain your licence, you'll need to present the same documents you have used to register your PKK and a proof of passing from the driving school. Driving in Poland can be a lot of fun, but also the responsibility. To ensure safety on the road, it is important to observe all road regulations, including wearing a seat belt, following traffic signals, and adhering to speed limits. You'll be fined by the police if don't. It is crucial to understand the Polish driving rules and etiquette.
Practical Exam
You will need to first enroll in an accredited driving school and then complete an extensive series of practical classes before you can sit for your practical test. You can locate a driving school in your local area by searching on the internet or asking your friends for suggestions. The course is inexpensive and lasts for a few weeks. In the course you will learn to drive a vehicle and be tested on the theory of driving.
The state test, which is the final step of getting the Polish license, is held at the Province Road Traffic Centers (Wojewodzki Osrodki Ruchu Drogowego). The exam is split into two parts: theory and practice. The theory part is available in a variety of languages, making it simpler 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 understanding.
You'll also need to complete a first aid and an eye test. You may be required to pass written or oral tests depending on the type license you're pursuing.
During the process of getting a Polish license you will also need to submit the original birth certificate and identification proof. If you are not yet 18, you must have a written consent from your legal guardian or parent. If you are an international citizen, you will need to submit a photocopy your visa or residence card and any document that demonstrates your legal residency in Poland.
You can apply for a Polish driving licence at the local Voivodeship Office after you have completed all requirements and passed the examinations. Bring your international driving permit in the event that you have it, and the other documents mentioned above. Once you've submitted all the required documents, your driving licence will be issued within two weeks. The driving license will be valid for 15 years for those under the age of 70, and three years for those who are over 70. A driving license makes it easier for you to explore Poland and all it offers.
Registration
As with most countries in Europe the rules of the road in Poland are generally simple. Seatbelts are required and drinking alcohol is strictly forbidden and speed limits are enforced. There are some requirements that must be met by foreign drivers. For was kostet der führerschein in polen , foreigners wanting to get a driver's license in Poland must undergo a medical examination and practical lessons before they can take the state examination.
The process is not without challenges, particularly for those who aren't fluent in Polish. There are other options available, like driving classes offered by language schools as well as private tutors. These classes offer individualized instruction to prepare students for the license exam. In addition, there are various online resources that can assist students to comprehend Polish road signs and driving etiquette.
A foreign national should have all the required documents prior to applying for the driver's license. Google Translate can help you complete the application form that is available for download, but must be completed by hand.
In addition, if the applicant plans to pursue a license under categories C or D, they must also pass an oral and written exam that focuses on the type of vehicle and safety regulations. Additionally, a first aid course is required to learn how to react to accidents on the road.
A good thing for those with an international driving permit, or foreign driving license that they are able to use it in Poland up to 185 days after the date of 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 license from abroad for one that is a Polish one.
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 requirements. It has already been criticized by ridesharing companies and politicians who believe it will cause longer waiting times for drivers and increased costs for passengers.