How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners who live in Poland have to exchange their home country's driving license in order to obtain a Polish one. This is particularly true for those who have been in Poland for more than 185 consecutive days (documented by the registration of a local address or visa or residence permit).
To accomplish this, they have to pass several tests and exams. The most important are:
Medical Exam
Getting a driver's license In Poland is a daunting task, especially for those who are expats. The procedure begins with a medical exam to ensure you are physically fit for driving. Then you need to pass a written theory exam to demonstrate your knowledge of Polish road rules and safety regulations. Then, you'll have to complete a series of driving classes with a certified instructor in order to demonstrate your ability to safely operate an automobile on Polish roads.
Depending on where you're from, the process could take up to 6 months, or one year or more. Luckily, if you are an EU citizen or one of the countries that are parties to the Vienna Convention, your domestic driving license will be recognized in Poland without the need 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.
However, even if are from one of these countries, you'll need to obtain a PKK (Profile Kandydata Na Kilorowce - Driver Candidate Profile) and pass an examination for medical reasons. You'll also need to bring an official translation of your driver's license in Polish, a copy of your passport, as well as an original visa or proof of residence.
After you have completed all steps, you will be given an appointment for your driving test at the local road traffic centre (osrodek ruchu drogowego). The test for theory will be administered on an automated machine. It will consist of multiple-choice tests on traffic laws, road signs and safety regulations. The practical test will be administered by a licensed instructor and will require you to demonstrate your ability to operate a vehicle that includes changing gears, navigating curves and parking.
Drivers employed by ridesharing firms like Uber or Bolt are not required to possess an Polish driving license, but in June 2017, this will change. 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 get a 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 that is a signatory of the Road Traffic Convention you can exchange it for a Polish license after 185 legal days, if your residency is confirmed by the registration of your address in Poland (Zameldowanie) or a residence card, visa or any other document that confirms your right to remain. You will still need to pass the theory portion of the national exam unless you have an international driving permit which is accompanied by an International Driving Permit.
The test for theory is divided into two parts: a written and a practical portion. It is notoriously difficult, even for Polish people, and the majority of test takers fail on their first or second attempt despite a lot of study. There are a variety of companies offering preparation for the exam, but beware of frauds by these companies - they might take your money and never give you the preparations.
Visit your nearest WORD office to plan your test. At the time of registration, you will require a passport as well as your candidate driver profile (PKK). The fee for the part that is theoretical is 30 PLN.
After passing the theory test, you will need to sign up with your district authority (osdzie). drogowy) for a practical test. In most cases, this process will take about a week, especially in big cities. At this time you will require a PKK along with a passport, and a document confirming your right to stay in Poland (Zameldowanie or Residence Card).
After motorrad führerschein in polen kosten has been completed, you will be able to get your driving licence within some days. You'll need the exact documents as you did to register your PKK plus a certificate of the driving school. Driving in Poland is a lot of fun however, it's also a duty. If you want to drive safely, you must obey all the rules of the road. which includes wearing seat belts, adhering to speed limits, and obeying traffic signals. You will be fined by the police if you do not. This is why it is important to learn the Polish driving manners.
Practical Exam
You must first enroll in a driving academy and complete a series of practical lessons before you can take your practical exam. You can search online for driving schools in your area or ask for suggestions. The course is inexpensive and lasts a few weeks. During the lessons you will be taught how to drive a vehicle and be assessed on the theory of driving.
The state exam which is the final step of getting a Polish license, is conducted at the Province Road Traffic Centers (Wojewodzki Osrodki Ruchu Drogowego). The exam is split into two parts: theory and practice. The theory part of the exam is available in several languages, which makes it easier for non Polish speakers to prepare. During the practice part of the state examination, you must demonstrate your ability to drive by showing your skills and understanding.
You'll also have to complete a first aid course and pass an eye test. You may be required to pass written or oral tests based on the type of license you're pursuing.
You must provide your birth certificate and identification documents when you apply for an Polish driving license. If you are under 18 years old, you must submit an official written consent from your legal guardian or parent. If you are an international citizen, you'll require a photocopy of your residence card or visa and any other document that proves your legal residence in Poland.
After you have fulfilled all the requirements and passed all of the tests, you can apply for the Polish driving license at your local Voivodeship office. Bring your international driving permit, if you have it along with the other documents mentioned above. After you have all the required documents the office will process them and issue your driver's license in about two weeks. The license is valid for 15 years for drivers younger than 70, and for three years for drivers older than 70. Having a driving license will make it much easier for you to move around Poland and explore all that it offers.
Registration
As with most countries in Europe the rules of the road in Poland are generally simple. Seatbelts are required and alcohol consumption is not permitted and speed limits are strictly enforced. However, some specific requirements for foreign drivers need to be considered. For instance, foreigners who wish to get their driving licenses in Poland must first pass a medical test and undergo practical training.
It is not an easy process, especially for those with a limited Polish proficiency. There are other options, like driving classes offered by language schools or private tutors. These courses provide specific instruction that prepares students for the test. There are numerous online resources to help students understand Polish road signs, driving etiquette and other aspects of driving.
Foreigners must have all of the necessary documents prior to applying for an driver's license. Google Translate can help you complete the application form which is available for download, but is required to be completed in person.
If a candidate wishes to obtain a license for categories C or D, they will also need to pass an oral and written exam which covers vehicle types and safety regulations. In addition, a first aid course must be attended to learn how to respond to road accidents.
If you're a holder of an international driving permit or foreign driving license, there's good news: they can continue to use it in Poland for 185 days from the date they have legal residency. However, beginning in June, this will change. drivers working for ridesharing companies such as Uber or Bolt are now required by law to exchange their foreign license to one in the Polish one.
The new rule was enacted to improve safety for passengers and stop the transportation of passengers in vehicles driven by drivers who don't meet the required requirements. It has been criticized already by the ridesharing industry and politicians who believe that it will result in longer waiting times for drivers and higher prices.