How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners who live in Poland are forced to exchange their driving license to one issued by Poland. This is particularly the case for those who spend more than 185 days as a legal resident (documented by local address registration or visa).
To accomplish this, they have to pass a variety of tests and exams. The most important are:
Medical Examination
The process of getting a driver's license In Poland is a challenging job, especially for foreigners. The process begins with a medical test to determine if you're physically fit enough to drive. The next step is to take a written exam to prove your knowledge of Polish road rules and safety regulations. In addition, you'll need to complete a series of practical driving lessons with a certified instructor to prove your competency to operate the vehicle on Polish roads.
Depending on where you're from, the process may take up to 6 months, or an entire year or more. Luckily, if you are an EU citizen or a country that is party to the Vienna Convention, your domestic driving license will be accepted in Poland without having to exchange it. Alternatively, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for those from countries that aren't part of the convention.
Even if you are an a resident of one of these countries, you will still need to get a PKK and pass a medical examination. You will also be required to carry a translation of your driver's licence in Polish, as well as a copy your passport and proof of residence or an official visa.
After you have completed all steps, you will receive an appointment 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 comprise multiple-choice tests on traffic laws, road signs and safety rules. The practical test will be administered by a licensed instructor. It will require you to demonstrate your ability to operate a vehicle, including changing gears, navigating curves and parking.
As of June 2017, drivers who work for ridesharing companies such as Uber or Bolt will be required to hold an active Polish driving license. New laws will require that drivers possess an official Polish license or face insurance issues for cars. In addition, drivers from outside of the Eurozone will require a Polish licence within 180 days of arriving in Poland or risk losing their license.
Theory Exam
If you hold a driving licence issued by the country that is a signatory of the Road Traffic Convention you can exchange it for a Polish licence after 185 days, if your residency is documented by the registration of your address in Poland (Zameldowanie) or residence card, visa or any other document that proves your right to remain. However, you'll have to pass the theoretical part of the national exam regardless of whether your foreign license is attached to an International Driving Permit.
The test for theory is divided into two parts one written and the other practical part. It is notoriously difficult even for the Polish people, and a majority of them fail on the first or second attempt even after a lot of studying. Many companies offer to help you prepare for the test. Beware of scams - they'll make you pay, but they will never provide you with the practice.
Visit your nearest WORD location to plan your test. You will need your passport and the candidate driver profile (PKK) when you register. The fee for the theoretical part of the exam is 30 PLN.
After passing the theory test, you must be registered with your district authority (osdzie). (drogowy) (drogowy), for a practical examination. The process typically lasts a few weeks particularly in cities with large populations. At this point, you'll need a PKK along with a passport, and a proof of your right to reside in Poland (Zameldowanie or Residence Card).
After passing the test, you will be issued your driving license within a couple of days. You'll need the exact documents as you did to obtain your PKK along with a proof of the driving school. Driving in Poland is a lot of fun, but it is also a duty. To ensure safety on the road it is crucial to observe all road regulations, including wearing your seat belt, paying attention to traffic signals, and adhering to speed limits. If you don't you will be reprimanded by the police. It is essential to be aware of the Polish driving etiquette.
Practical Exam
You must first enroll in an academy for driving and take a series of practical lessons before you can sit for your practical exam. You can find a driving school in your location by searching online or asking your friends for recommendations. The course is affordable and takes a few weeks. During the lessons you will learn to drive and test your driving theory.
The final step to obtain an Polish driving license is passing the state exam. This is conducted at the Province Road Traffic Centers. The exam is split into two parts: the theory and practice. The theory part of the test is available in a variety of languages, making it easier for non Polish people to prepare. In the state test practice, you will need to demonstrate your driving skills and knowledge.
You will also be required to complete a first aid and an eye exam. You may need to take oral or written tests depending on the type license you're seeking.
During the process of getting a Polish license You must also provide a copy of your birth certificate as well as evidence of your identity. If you are not yet 18 years old, you must present a written consent from your parent or legal guardian. If Fuehrerscheinn are an international citizen, you will require a photocopy of your visa or residence card and any document that demonstrates your legal residence in Poland.
After you have fulfilled all of the requirements and passed all examinations, you are eligible to apply for a Polish driving license at your local voivodeship office. Be sure to bring your international driving license if you have one, and all of the documents listed above. Once you have all the necessary documents, the office will process them and issue your driving permit within two weeks. The license will be valid for 15 years for those who are younger than 70 and for three years for those over 70. Having a driving license will make it much easier for you to get around Poland and explore all that Poland has to offer.
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. There are a few requirements that must be met by foreign drivers. For instance, foreigners who wish to obtain their driving licenses in Poland must first pass a medical test and take practical lessons.
It is not an easy process, especially for those who have limited Polish proficiency. However, there are solutions such as driving courses offered by numerous language schools or private tutors that offer individualized instruction and prepare students for the licensing examination. In addition, there are various online resources that will help students to comprehend Polish road signs and driving manners.
Before submitting an application for a license, a foreigner should make sure they have all the required documents on hand. This includes the completed application form (which can be downloaded, but must be filled out by hand in Polish which means that Google Translate is your best friend) and a medical certificate that states that the applicant is fit to drive, as well as a current photograph that is of the right 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 test that covers vehicle types and safety regulations. Additionally, a first aid course is required to learn how to respond to road accidents.
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 calendar days after the date of legal residence. However, from June, this will change. drivers who work for ridesharing companies like Uber or Bolt are legally required to exchange their foreign license to one that is a Polish one.
The new rule was enacted to improve safety for passengers and stop the transportation of people on vehicles driven by drivers who do not meet the required requirements. However, it has been criticized by ridesharing companies as well as politicians who believe it will result in longer waiting times and higher costs for drivers.