How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners who live in Poland have to exchange their home driving license in their country for one issued by Poland. This is especially true 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 this they must pass a string of tests and exams. The most important ones are:
Medical Examination
Getting a driver's license in Poland is a daunting job, especially for foreigners. The process begins with a medical test to determine if you are physically fit to drive. After that, you must pass a written test to demonstrate your knowledge of Polish road rules and safety regulations. Additionally, you will need to take a series of driving classes with an instructor certified to show that you can safely operate a vehicle on Polish roads.
Based on the country of your birth It could take up to 6 months or longer. If you're a resident of the EU or a member of the Vienna Convention, then your domestic driving licence will be accepted in Poland without the need to exchange it. In addition, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for citizens of countries that aren't part of the Vienna Convention.
However, even if you are from one of these countries, you'll require a PKK (Profile Kandydata Na Kierowce Driver Candidate Profile) and pass an exam for medical conditions. wie viel kostet ein führerschein in polen 'll also need to bring the translation of your driver's license in Polish, a copy of your passport and a valid visa or proof of residency.
After you have completed the necessary steps, you'll be given a driving test date at your local road traffic center (osrodek ruchu drogowego). The test will be administered on an automated machine. It will comprise multiple-choice questions on traffic laws, road signs, and safety rules. The test in practice is conducted by a certified driver and requires you to demonstrate the ability to drive a vehicle including changing gears, navigating corners and parking.
As of June 2017, drivers working for ridesharing companies such as Uber or Bolt will be required to have an active Polish driving license. New laws will require drivers to have an official Polish license or face car insurance issues. In addition, drivers from outside of the Eurozone must obtain an Polish license within 180 days of arriving in Poland or risk losing their license.
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 license after 185 legal days, if your residency is documented through the registration of your address in Poland (Zameldowanie), visa, residence card or any other document that confirms your right to remain. You will still have to pass the part that is theoretical of the national test in the event that you hold an international driving permit that is accompanied by an International Driving Permit.
The theory test is a multi-part test that consists of a written portion and a practical one. It is notoriously difficult even for the Polish people, and the majority of people fail on the first or second attempt despite a lot of study. There are many companies offering preparation for the test, but beware scams - they could make you pay and then not provide you with the necessary preparations.
To schedule your theory test, visit your local WORD (Wojewodzki Osrodek Ruchudrogowego). When you register, you'll require a passport as well as your profile as a driver candidate (PKK). A fee for the theoretical part of the exam is 30 PLN.
After passing the theory test, you must register at your district authority (osdzie). (drogowy), for a practical test. This process usually takes a few weeks, especially in large cities. You'll require your PKK, passport and document that proves you have the right to remain in Poland (Zameldowanie).
After passing the practical test, you will receive your driving license within few working days. You'll need the same documents you used to get your PKK and a certification from the driving school. Driving in Poland is an enjoyable experience, but it is also a duty. 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. If you don't you will be penalized by the police. It is important to know the Polish driving manners.
Practical Exam
You must first enroll in an accredited driving school and then complete the series of lessons before you can take your practical test. You can search the internet for driving schools in your area, or ask friends for suggestions. The course is for a couple of weeks and is affordable. During the lessons, you will learn how to drive a car and be assessed on the theory of driving.
The final step to obtain the Polish driving license is to pass the state test. This is conducted at the Province Road Traffic Centers. The exam is divided into two parts: theory and practice. The theory part of the exam is available in several languages, which makes it easier for non Polish natives to prepare. During the state exam practice, you will need to demonstrate your driving abilities and knowledge.
You will also need to complete a first aid course and have an eye test. You may be required to pass oral or written tests based on the type of license you're pursuing.
In order to obtain a Polish license, you must also submit the original birth certificate as well as proof of identity. If you are younger than 18 years old, you need to have an official written consent from your parent or legal guardian. If you are an international citizen, you will require a photocopy of your residence card or visa, as well as any other document that proves your legal residence in Poland.
After you have completed all the requirements and passed all tests, you can apply for the Polish driving license at the 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 process them and issue your driving permit in about two weeks. The driving license will be valid for 15 years for those under the age of 70 and three years for those who are over 70. Having a driving license will make it much easier for you to move around Poland and explore all that Poland has to offer.
Registration
The rules of the road are relatively easy in Poland the same way as they are in most European countries. Seatbelts are mandatory and alcohol consumption is not permitted and speed limits are rigorously enforced. However, certain specific requirements for foreign drivers need to be considered. For instance, foreigners who want to get their driving license in Poland must undergo a medical examination and take practical classes before they can sit for the state examination.
It's not an easy task, especially for those with limited Polish proficiency. There are other options available, for instance, driving lessons provided by language schools or private tutors. These courses provide individual instruction to prepare students for the test. In addition there are a variety of online resources that can assist students understand Polish road signs and driving etiquette.
A foreign national should have all of the necessary documents before applying for the driver's license. Google Translate can help you fill out the application form which can be downloaded, but is required to be completed in person.
If a candidate wishes to get a license in categories C or D, they will also need to pass an oral and a written test that covers vehicle types and safety regulations. To learn how to deal with road accidents, the applicant must also take a class on first aid.
A good thing for those with an international driving permit, or a foreign driving license: they can use it in Poland for up to 185 days after their date of legal residence. In June the rules will change. Drivers who are employed by ridesharing services like Bolt or Uber are now required to exchange their foreign driving license to a Polish license.
The new rule was put in place to enhance safety of passengers and stop passengers from being transported in vehicles driven by drivers that do not meet the required requirements. It has already been criticized by riders and politicians who believe that it will result in longer wait times for drivers and more expensive prices.