How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners living in Poland are forced to exchange their driving license in their country for one issued by Poland. This is especially the case for those who spend more than 180 days as a legally resident (documented by local address registration, visa or residence permit).
To do this they must pass a series tests and exams. The most important ones are:
Medical Examination
The process of getting a driver's license in Poland is a challenging task, particularly for foreigners. The process begins with a medical exam to determine if you are physically fit to drive. You will then have to take a written test to prove your understanding of Polish safety and road regulations. In addition, you'll need to pass a series of driving classes with a qualified instructor to prove your competency to operate a vehicle on Polish roads.
Depending on where you are from The process can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months or longer. If you're an EU citizen or from 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, an International Driving Permit is recommended.
However, even if are from was kostet der führerschein in polen of these countries, you will require a PKK (Profile Kandydata Na Kierowce - Driver Candidate Profile) and undergo an exam for medical conditions. You'll also need to carry a translation of your driver's licence in Polish as well as a copy your passport and proof of residency, or a valid visa.
After you have completed all the necessary steps, you will be given a driving test time at your local road traffic center (osrodek ruchu drogowego). The test will be performed on an automated device and will consist of multiple-choice questions about traffic laws, road signs and safety regulations. The test in practice will be conducted by a licensed instructor. It will require you to demonstrate your ability to operate a vehicle, including changing gears, navigating curves and parking.
At present, drivers working for ridesharing companies like Uber or Bolt are not required to have an Polish driving license, but in June 2017, this will change. New laws will force drivers to have an active Polish driving license or face insurance problems. motorrad führerschein in polen kosten who are not part of the Eurozone must also get a Polish license within 185 days of settling in Poland or risk having their licenses exchanged.
Theory Exam
If you own a driver's license issued by a country that is a signatory to the Road Traffic Convention, you can exchange it for the Polish license after 185 days of legally residing in the event that your residence is documented by local address registration (Zameldowanie) or a residence card, visa or other document confirming your right to stay. However, you'll need to pass the theoretical portion of the national test in the event that your foreign license is accompanied by an International Driving Permit.
The theory test is divided into two parts that are written and a practical part. It is notoriously difficult, even for the Polish people, and the majority of people fail on their first or second attempt, despite much 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 preparation.
To book your theory test to take it, go to the nearest WORD (Wojewodzki Osrodek Ruchu Drogowego). When you register, you'll need a passport along with your profile as a driver candidate (PKK). The fee for the theoretical portion of the test is 30 PLN.
After passing the theory test, you must register at your district authority (osdzie). (drogowy), to take a test. This process usually takes about a week, especially in large cities. You will require your PKK, passport and document that confirms that you have the right to stay in Poland (Zameldowanie).
After passing the test, you will receive your driving license within a few days. You'll need the exact documents as you did to register your PKK plus a certificate of the driving school. Driving in Poland can be full of fun, but also the responsibility. To ensure safety on the road, it is important to follow all road rules, which includes wearing your seat belt, paying attention to traffic signals, and obeying speed limits. You could be fined by the police if you don't. This is why it is very important to learn Polish driving etiquette.
Practical Exam
You will need to first enroll in an accredited driving school and then complete a series of practical lessons before you are able to take your test. You can locate a driving school in your location by searching online or asking around for recommendations. The cost of the course is reasonable and lasts a few weeks. In the course, you will learn to drive a vehicle and test your driving theory.
The final step in obtaining a Polish driving license is the state test. This is conducted at the Province Road Traffic Centers. The exam is divided into two parts: theory and practice. The theory portion is available in many languages, making it easy for non-Polish-speaking candidates to prepare. In the practice portion of the state examination you must demonstrate your ability to drive by showing your abilities and understanding.
You'll also have to pass a course in first aid and an eye exam. Depending on the kind of license you're planning to pursue, you might need to take additional oral or written tests.
You must submit your birth certificate along with identification documents when applying for an Polish driving license. If you are less than 18 years old, you'll need a written consent of your legal guardian or parent. If you are a non-native citizen, you must submit the photocopy of your residence card or visa and an official document that proves your legal residence in Poland like the certificate of studies or visa stamp.
You can apply for a Polish driving license at the local Voivodeship Office once you have met all the requirements and passed the tests. Bring your international driving permit If you have one along with the other documents listed above. Once you have all of the necessary documents, the office will process them and issue your driver's license within two weeks. The driving license is valid for 15 years for drivers who are younger than 70, and for three years for those older than 70. Having a driving license will make it much easier to travel around Poland and discover all Poland has to offer.
Registration
Like many countries in Europe the rules of the road in Poland are generally straightforward. Seatbelts are compulsory and alcohol consumption is strictly forbidden and speed limits are enforced. However, specific requirements for foreign drivers have to be taken into account. For instance, foreigners wishing to get a driver's license in Poland must pass a medical examination and take practical classes before they can sit for the state exam.
The process isn't without challenges, particularly for those who don't speak in Polish. There are other options, like driving classes provided by language schools or private tutors. These classes provide individualized instruction to prepare students for the license exam. There are numerous online resources that can assist students in understanding Polish road signs, driving etiquette and other aspects of driving.
A foreigner should have all the required documents prior to applying for an driver's license. This includes a completed application form (which is available for download but must be filled out by hand in Polish and Polish, so Google Translate is your best friend) and a medical certificate stating that the applicant is healthy enough to drive, as well as a current photo that is in compliance with size and format requirements.
If a candidate wishes to get a license in categories C or D they must also pass an oral and a written test that covers the types of vehicles and safety regulations. Additionally the first aid course is required to learn how to react to road accidents.
Good news for those with an international driving permit, or foreign driving license: they can use it in Poland up to 185 days after their date of legal residence. In June the policy will change. Drivers who work for ride-sharing companies like Bolt or Uber are now required to exchange their foreign driving license in exchange for the Polish license.
The new rule was put in place to enhance safety of passengers and stop people from being transported by vehicles driven by drivers that don't meet the requirements. The new requirement has already been criticized by ridesharing companies and politicians who believe that it will cause longer wait times for drivers and more expensive prices.