How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners who live in Poland are forced to exchange their home country's driving license to a Polish one. This is particularly relevant for those who have been in Poland for more than 185 consecutive days (documented with a local address registration or visa, or a residence permit).
To do that they need to pass a variety of tests and tests. The most important are:
Medical Exam
It is difficult to obtain a driving permit in Poland, especially for foreigners. The process starts with a medical exam to confirm that you're physically fit enough to drive. The next step is to pass a written test to demonstrate your knowledge of Polish road rules and safety rules. was kostet ein führerschein in polen Führerschein will also need to undergo a series of driving lessons with a certified instructor to demonstrate that you can safely operate a car on Polish roads.
Depending on where you are from, the process could take as little as 6 months or a year or more. Fortunately, if you're an EU citizen or one of the countries that are parties to the Vienna Convention, your domestic driving license can be recognized in Poland without having to exchange it. For citizens of countries not included in the Vienna Convention and not part of the Vienna Convention, an International Driving Permit is recommended.
But, even if you are from one of these countries, you will need to obtain a PKK (Profile Kandydata Na Kierowce - Driver Candidate Profile) and undergo an examination for medical reasons. You'll also have to bring a translated version of your driver's licence in Polish and the passport copy and proof of residency, or an official visa.
Once you have completed all steps, you will be given a date for your driving test at the local road traffic centre (osrodek ruchu drogowego). The theory test will be administered by an automated machine. It will consist of multiple-choice tests on traffic laws, road signs and safety rules. The test in practice will be conducted by a licensed instructor and will require you to demonstrate your ability to operate a vehicle and change gears, driving around curves and parking.
Currently, drivers working for ridesharing companies such as Uber or Bolt are not required to have an Polish driving license, but as of June 2017 the law will change. The new laws will require drivers to possess a valid Polish license, or face car insurance issues. Drivers who reside outside of the Eurozone must also get an Polish license within 185 days after settling in Poland or risk having their license exchanged.
Theory Exam
If you are a holder of a driving licence issued by an country which is a signatory to the Road Traffic Convention you can swap it out for a Polish licence after 185 legal days, as long as your residency is documented by an address registration for your local area (Zameldowanie), visa, residence card or any other document that confirms your right to remain. However, you will still be required to pass the theory portion of the national examination in the event that your foreign license is attached to an International Driving Permit.
The theory test is a multi-part test that consists of a written part and a practical part. It is notoriously difficult, even for the Polish people, and a majority of test takers fail on their first or second try even after a lot of studying. There are a variety of firms that promise to prepare you for the exam, but beware of their swindles - they may be able to take your money and not provide you with the necessary preparations.
To book your theory test to take it, go to your nearest WORD (Wojewodzki Osrodek Ruchu Drogowego). 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 the theory test You must then sign up at the district authority office (osdzie (drogowy), for a practical test. In most cases, this process can take a week or two particularly in large cities. At this time you will require a PKK along with a passport, and a proof of your right to remain in Poland (Zameldowanie or Residence Card).
If the practical exam has been completed, you will be able to get your driving licence in some days. To get your license, you'll be required to bring the same documents that you did for the registration of your PKK along with a valid certificate from the driving school. Driving in Poland is very enjoyable however, it's also a responsibility. If you want to drive safely, you must adhere to all the rules of the road - which includes wearing seat belts, adhering to speed limits and following traffic lights. You will be fined by the police if do not. It is crucial to understand the Polish driving manners.
Practical Exam
Before you can pass the test you must be enrolled in an driving school and pass a number of practical lessons. You can locate a driving school in your local area by searching on the internet or asking around for recommendations. The cost of the course is reasonable and lasts for a few weeks. In the course, you will learn how to drive a vehicle and be tested on the theory of driving.
The state exam which is the final step in obtaining an Polish license, is held at the Province Road Traffic Centers (Wojewodzki Osrodki Ruchu Drogowego). The exam is divided into two parts: theory and practice. The theory part of the exam is offered in a variety of languages, making it easier for non Polish speakers to prepare. In the state test practice you'll have to demonstrate your driving skills and understanding.
You'll also have to pass a first aid course and pass an eye test. Depending on the type of license you are seeking, you may need to pass additional written or oral tests.
During the process of getting a Polish license you will also need to submit an original birth certificate and evidence of your identity. If you are younger than 18 years old, you'll need the written consent of your legal guardian or parent. If you are an international citizen, you'll have to provide a photocopy of your residence card or visa and any document that demonstrates your legal residency in Poland.
After you have completed all the requirements and passed all of the exams, you can apply for a Polish driving license at your local Voivodeship office. Bring your international driving permit, if you have it, and the other documents mentioned above. After you have all the necessary documents the office will review them and issue your driving permit in about two weeks. The driving license is valid for 15-years for drivers who are younger than 70 and three years for those older than 70. Having a driving license will make it easier for you to move around Poland and discover all Poland offers.
Registration
As with most countries in Europe the rules of the roads in Poland are generally clear. Seatbelts are mandatory and alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited and speed limits are enforced. However, specific requirements for foreign drivers need to be taken into account. For instance, foreigners wishing to get their driving license in Poland must pass a medical examination and practical training before they can take the state examination.
It's not an easy process particularly for those with a limited Polish proficiency. There are other options available, for instance, driving lessons offered by language schools or private tutors. These courses provide individual instruction to prepare students for the license exam. Additionally there are numerous online resources that can assist students understand Polish road signs and driving behavior.
Before submitting an application for a license, a foreigner should ensure that they have all the necessary documents in their possession. Google Translate can help you fill out the application form, which is available for download, but must be completed by hand.
If the applicant wants to obtain a license for categories C or D, they must pass an oral and written test which covers vehicle types and safety regulations. To learn how to respond to road accidents, the applicant must also complete a course on first aid.
There's good news for those who have an international driving permit, or a foreign driving license you can use it in Poland up to 185 calendar days after the date of legal residence. Beginning in June, this will change. Drivers working for ridesharing services such as Bolt or Uber are now required to swap their foreign driving license for one that is a Polish license.
The new law was enacted to increase safety for passengers and 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 and politicians who believe it will result in longer wait times and higher prices for drivers.