How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners who live in Poland find themselves having to exchange their home country's driving license in order to obtain a Polish one. This is particularly the case for those who spend more than 180 days as a legally resident (documented by local address registration, visa or residence permit).
To achieve this, they must pass a series of tests and exams. The most important are:
Medical Exam
Getting a driver's license In Poland is a daunting job, especially for those who are expats. The procedure begins with a medical exam to determine if you're physically fit for driving. Then you need to take a written exam to prove your knowledge of Polish road rules and safety rules. Finally, you will need to complete a set of driving classes with a certified instructor in order to prove your competency to operate an automobile on Polish roads.
Depending on where you are from, the process could take anywhere from 6 to 12 months or longer. If you're an EU citizen or a country that is party to the Vienna Convention, your domestic driving license will be recognized in Poland without having to exchange it. For those who are citizens of countries that are not included in the Vienna Convention, an International Driving Permit is recommended.
However, even if you are from one of these countries, you'll need to obtain a PKK (Profile Kandydata Na Kilorowce - Driver Candidate Profile) and undergo an exam for medical conditions. You'll also have to bring a translation of your driver's license into Polish and a copy your passport and proof of residency, or a valid visa.
Once you have completed all the steps, you will receive an appointment for your driving test at your local road traffic center (osrodek ruchu drogowego). The test is taken on an automated machine and will consist of multiple choice questions regarding traffic laws, road signs and safety regulations. The practical test will be conducted by a licensed instructor and will require you to demonstrate your ability to operate a car, including changing gears, maneuvering around curves 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, this will change. The new laws will require drivers to possess an active Polish license, or face car insurance issues. Drivers from outside the Eurozone must also obtain an Polish license within 185 days of arriving 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 a Polish license after 185 days of legally residing and if your residence is documented by local address registration (Zameldowanie) or a residence card, visa or any other document that confirms your right to stay. You will still have to pass the theory portion of the national exam unless you have an international driving permit that is accompanied by a International Driving Permit.
The theory test is split into two parts one written and the other practical part. Even the Polish aren't able to pass it, and many fail their first or second attempts even though they have studied hard. There are several companies offering to prepare you for the exam, but beware of frauds by these companies - they might take your money and never provide the training you need.
Visit your nearest WORD to arrange your theory test. At the time of registration, you will need a passport and your driver profile for candidates (PKK). The cost for the theoretical portion of the test is 30 PLN.
After passing the theory test, you must be registered with your district authority (osdzie). Drogowy) for a practical test. In most cases this process can take a week or two particularly in large cities. In this stage, you'll require a PKK, a passport and a proof of your right to remain in Poland (Zameldowanie or Residence Card).
After passing the practical test, you will be issued your driving license within a few working days. You'll need the same documents as you did to get your PKK and a certification from the driving school. Driving in Poland is an enjoyable experience but it's also a responsibilities. If you wish to drive safely, you must adhere to all the rules of the road - which includes wearing seat belts, obeying speed limits and following traffic lights. If you do not you will be reprimanded by the police. This is why it is so important to master the Polish driving manners.
Practical Exam
Before you can take the practical test you must be enrolled in driving school and complete several practical classes. You can locate a driving school in your location by searching online or asking around for recommendations. The course is affordable and takes a few weeks. In the course, you will learn how to drive a car and also be assessed on the theory of driving.
The final step to get a Polish driving license is the state exam. The test is held at the Province Road Traffic Centers. The exam is split into two parts: the theory, and practice. The theory portion of the exam is offered in several languages, making it easier for non Polish speakers to prepare. In the practice portion of the state exam you will be required to demonstrate your ability to drive by demonstrating your skills and understanding.
You'll also need to complete a first aid course and take an eye test. Based on the type of license you're seeking, you may need to pass additional written or oral tests.
You must provide your birth certificate and proof of identity when applying for the Polish driving license. If you are not yet 18, you must have an official written consent from your parent or legal guardian. If you are an international citizen, you'll need to submit a photocopy your visa or residence card along with any document that confirms your legal residence in Poland.
Once you have met all of the requirements and passed all of the tests, you can apply for a Polish driving license at your local voivodeship office. Make sure to bring your international driving license if you have one, as well as all of the documents mentioned above. Once you've submitted all the required documents, your driving permit will be issued in two weeks. The license will be valid for 15 years for drivers less than 70, and three years for those who are over 70. A driving license makes it easier for you to explore Poland and everything it has to offer.
Registration
As with most countries in Europe, the rules of the roads in Poland are generally straightforward. Seatbelts are compulsory and alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited and speed limits are enforced. However, specific requirements for foreign drivers need to be considered. For instance foreigners wishing to obtain their driving licenses in Poland must first pass a medical exam and then take a practical driving course.
It is not an easy process, especially for those with a limited Polish proficiency. There are other options available, for instance, driving lessons offered by language schools or private tutors. These classes offer individualized instruction to prepare students for the licensing exam. In addition there are a variety of online resources that can assist students to comprehend Polish road signs and driving behavior.
A foreigner should possess all the required documents required to apply for an driver's license. This includes an application form that is completed (which is available for download but must be filled out in person in Polish which means that Google Translate is your best option) and a medical certificate that states that the applicant is able to drive, and a current photograph that is of the right size and format requirements.
Additionally, if the candidate plans to pursue a license in categories C or D, they need to be able to pass an oral and written test that focuses on the type of vehicle and safety regulations. In addition, a first aid course is required to learn how to respond to accidents on the road.
There's good news for those who have an international driving permit or foreign driving licence you can use it in Poland up to 185 calendar days after the date of legal residence. Starting in June, this will change. Drivers who work for ridesharing services such as Bolt or Uber are now required to exchange their foreign driving license to the Polish license.
The new law was enacted to improve passenger safety and stop passengers from being transported in vehicles driven by drivers who do not meet the required requirements. But fahrschule in polen has already been criticised by ridesharing companies and politicians who believe it will result in longer wait times and higher prices for drivers.