How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners living in Poland have to exchange their home country's driving license for a Polish one. This is particularly true for those who have resided in Poland for more than 185 consecutive days (documented by a local address registration, a visa or a residence permit).
To do this they must pass a series tests and exams. The most important ones are:
Medical Exam
The process of getting a driver's license In Poland is a daunting job, especially for foreigners. The process begins with a medical test to ensure that you are physically fit enough to drive. Then you need to pass a written theory exam to prove your knowledge of Polish road rules and safety regulations. You will also need to take a series driving lessons with an instructor who is certified to prove that you can safely operate a car on Polish roads.
Based on the country of your birth The process can take up to 6 months or longer. Fortunately, if you're an EU citizen or a country that is a party to the Vienna Convention, your domestic driving license can be recognized in Poland without having to exchange it. For those who are citizens of countries that are not included in the Vienna Convention or the Vienna Convention, an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Even if you're a citizen of one of these countries, you'll still need to get a PKK and pass a medical examination. You will also be required to carry a translation of your driver's license into Polish, as well as the passport copy and proof of residence or a valid visa.
Once you have completed the required steps, you will be given a driving test time at your local road traffic center (osrodek ruchu drogowego). The test is conducted using an automated system and will consist of multiple choice questions regarding traffic laws road signs, safety rules. The test in practice will be conducted by a certified instructor and will require you to demonstrate your ability to operate a vehicle that includes changing gears, driving around curves and parking.
As of June 2017, drivers working for ride-sharing companies such as Uber or Bolt will be required to have a valid Polish driving license. The new laws will require that drivers have a valid Polish license, or else face issues with car insurance. Drivers from outside the Eurozone must also obtain an Polish license within 185 days of settling in Poland or risk having their license revoked.
Theory Exam
If you are a holder of an driving license issued by a country which is a signatory to the Road Traffic Convention you can exchange it with an Polish licence after 185 days, provided your residency is documented through the registration of your address in Poland (Zameldowanie) or a residence card, visa or any other document that confirms your right to remain. You must still pass the theory portion of the national test unless you have an international driving license that is accompanied by an International Driving Permit.
The test for theory is divided into two parts that are written and a practical part. It is notoriously difficult even for Polish people, and the majority of test takers fail on the first or second attempt, despite much studying. There are several companies that offer to prepare you for the test, but beware of scams - they could make you pay and then not give you the preparations.
Visit your nearest WORD location to schedule your theory test. You will require your passport as well as the candidate driver profile (PKK) at the time of registration. The fee for the theoretical portion of the exam is 30 PLN.
After passing was kostet der führerschein in polen Führerschein After passing the theory exam, you must register at the district authority office (osdzie (drogowy), for a practical examination. This process usually lasts a few weeks particularly in larger cities. You'll need your PKK, passport and document confirming that you are able to stay in Poland (Zameldowanie).
If the practical exam has been passed, you can get your driving licence within a few days. To get your license, you'll need to bring the same documents that you have used to register your PKK and a proof of passing from the driving school. Driving in Poland can be full of fun, but it also comes with an immense amount of responsibility. To ensure safety on the road it is essential to follow all road rules, which includes wearing the seat belt, obeying traffic signals, and adhering to speed limits. If you do not you will be reprimanded by the police. This is why it is important to learn the Polish driving etiquette.
Practical Exam
Before you can sit for the practical test, you have to enroll in a driving school and pass a number of practical lessons. You can look online for driving schools in your area or ask around for recommendations. The course is affordable and lasts a few weeks. In the course you will learn to drive a car and be tested on the driving theory.
The final step in obtaining a Polish driving license is passing the state test. This is conducted at the Province Road Traffic Centers. The exam is divided into two parts: the theory, and practice. The theory portion of the exam is offered in a variety of languages, which makes it easier for non Polish natives to prepare. When you take the state exam you'll need to demonstrate your driving skills and knowledge.
You'll also need to pass a course in first aid and an eye test. Depending on the kind of license you're pursuing, you may have to pass additional written or oral exams.
You must submit your birth certificate as well as proof of identity when applying for an Polish driving license. If you are under 18 years old, you must present a written consent from your legal guardian or parent. If you are a non-native citizen, you must provide a photocopy of your residence card or visa and a document confirming your legal stay in Poland, such as the certificate of studies or visa stamp.
You can apply for your Polish driving license at the local Voivodeship Office when you have fulfilled all requirements and passed the exams. Make sure you bring your international driving permit, if you have one, and all the required documents mentioned above. After you've submitted all required documents, your driving permit will be issued within two weeks. The license is valid for 15 years for those who are younger than 70 and three years for those over 70. A driving permit will make it easier for you to explore Poland and everything it has to offer.
Registration
Like many countries in Europe the rules of the road in Poland are generally simple. Seatbelts are compulsory, alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited and speed limits are enforced. However, some specific requirements for foreign drivers need to be taken into consideration. For instance, foreigners wishing to obtain a driving license in Poland must undergo a medical examination and take practical classes before they can sit for the state examination.
The process is not without challenges, especially for those who aren't fluent in Polish. There are other options, like driving classes offered by language schools or private tutors. These classes offer individual instruction to prepare students for the license exam. Additionally there are a variety of online resources that can help students understand Polish road signs and driving behavior.
A foreign national should have all of the necessary documents before applying for an driver's license. Google Translate can help you complete the application form, which can be downloaded, but is required to be completed in person.
In addition, if the applicant plans to pursue a license in categories C or D, they must also take an oral and a written test 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.
There's good news for those who have an international driving permit, or foreign driving licence that they are able to use it in Poland up to 185 days after the date of their legal residence. However, beginning in June, this will change. drivers who work for ridesharing companies such as Uber or Bolt are legally required to exchange their foreign license to one that is a Polish one.
The new law was introduced to improve safety for passengers and prevent the transport of passengers in vehicles driven by drivers who do not meet the necessary standards. But it has already been criticised by ridesharing companies and politicians who believe it could lead to longer waiting times and more expensive prices for drivers.