How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners who reside in Poland have to exchange their driving license in their country for one issued by Poland. This is especially relevant for those who have lived in Poland for more than 185 consecutive days (documented by an address registration for local addresses or visa, or a residence permit).
To do this they must pass a series of tests and examinations. The most important are:
Medical Examination
Getting a driver's license to drive in Poland is a difficult task, particularly for expats. The process starts with a medical examination to determine if you are physically fit enough to drive. You must then take a written test to demonstrate your knowledge of Polish safety and road rules. You will also need to take a series of driving classes with an instructor who is certified to demonstrate that you can safely operate a car on Polish roads.
Based on the country of your birth, the process could take up to 6 months or longer. If you're a citizen of the EU or a member of the Vienna Convention, then your driver's license from your country will be accepted in Poland without needing to exchange it. In addition, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is a must for those who reside in countries that aren't a part of the convention.
But, even if you are from one of these countries, you'll require a PKK (Profile Kandydata Na Kierowce - Driver Candidate Profile) and undergo an examination for medical reasons. You will also need to bring the translation of your driver's licence into Polish as well as a copy your passport, as well as a valid visa or proof of residency.
After you have completed all the steps, you will be given a date for your driving test at your local road traffic centre (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 regulations. The test on the practical side is administered by a licensed driver. It requires you to demonstrate the ability to drive a vehicle including changing gears, navigating corners and parking.
Currently, drivers employed by ridesharing companies such as Uber or Bolt are not required to hold an Polish driving license. However, 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. In addition, drivers from outside the Eurozone must obtain a Polish licence within the 185-day period after settling in Poland, or face exchanging their license.
Theory Exam
If you own a driver's license issued by a country that is a member to the Road Traffic Convention, you can exchange it for an Polish license after 185 days of legal residency and if your residence is documented by local address registration (Zameldowanie) or a residence card, visa or another document confirming your right to stay. You will still have to pass the part that is theoretical of the national exam in the event that you hold a foreign driving license that is accompanied by a International Driving Permit.
The theory test is split into two parts one written and the other practical part. Even the Polish struggle with it and many fail on their first or second attempt despite studying hard. There are many companies that offer preparation for the test, but beware of frauds by these companies - they might make you pay and then not give you the preparations.
Visit your nearest WORD office to schedule your theory test. During the registration you will need a passport along with your candidate driver profile (PKK). The cost for the part that is theoretical is 30 PLN.
After passing the theory exam You must then register at the district authority office (osdzie drogowy) for a practical exam. This process usually lasts a few weeks particularly in larger cities. At this point, you'll need a PKK, a passport and a proof of your right to remain in Poland (Zameldowanie or Residence Card).
Once the practical exam is completed, you will be able to get your driving license within some days. You'll need the same documents that 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 responsibility. If you want to drive safely, you must adhere to all the rules of the road - including wearing seat belts, observing speed limits and obeying traffic signals. If you do not you will be reprimanded by the police. It is important to know the Polish driving rules and etiquette.
Practical Exam
Before you can sit for the practical exam you must enroll in driving school and complete some practical lessons. You can look online for driving schools in your area or ask around for recommendations. The course is affordable and lasts a few weeks. In the course, you will learn how to drive a car and also be tested on the driving theory.
The state exam which is the final step in obtaining the Polish license, is conducted at the Province Road Traffic Centers (Wojewodzki Osrodki Ruchu Drogowego). The exam has two parts: theory and practice. führerschein polen kosten of the test is available in several languages, which makes it easier for non Polish people to prepare. In the state test practice you'll have to demonstrate your driving skills and understanding.
You will also be required to complete a first aid and an eye exam. You may need to take oral or written tests, based on the type of license you're looking to obtain.
You must submit your birth certificate and proof of identity when applying for the Polish driving license. If you are under 18 years old, you must present a written consent from your parent or legal guardian. If you are a foreign citizen, you must submit a photocopy of your residence card or visa along with the document that confirms your legal residency in Poland like a certificate of studies or a visa stamp.
After you have completed all the requirements and passed all of the exams, you can apply for a Polish driving license at the local Voivodeship office. Bring your international driving permit in the event that you have it along with the other documents listed above. After you have all the necessary documents the office will process them and issue your driving license within two weeks. The driving license will be valid for 15 years for drivers under the age of 70 and three years for those over 70. A driving license makes it easier to explore Poland and everything it has to offer.
Registration
Like most countries in Europe the rules of the road in Poland are generally straightforward. Seatbelts are mandatory and drinking alcohol is strictly prohibited and speed limits are enforced. However, some specific requirements for foreign drivers need to be taken into account. For instance foreigners wishing to obtain their driving licenses in Poland must first pass a medical examination and undergo practical training.
The process isn't without challenges, especially for those who don't speak in Polish. However, there are solutions such as driving courses provided by a variety of private tutors or language schools who provide individual instruction and prepare students for the licensing exam. In addition there are a variety of online resources that can assist students understand Polish road signs and driving manners.
Before applying for a driver's license the applicant must ensure that they have all the necessary documents in their possession. führerschein polen kosten 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 get a license in categories C or D they must also pass an oral and written exam which covers vehicle types and safety regulations. To be able to handle road accidents, the driver must also attend a course on first aid.
Good news for those with an international driving permit, or foreign driving licence: they can use it in Poland up to 185 days after their date of legal residence. In June the rules will change. Drivers who work for ridesharing services such as Bolt or Uber are now required to exchange their driving licenses from abroad for the Polish license.
The new law was enacted to increase safety for passengers and stop people from being transported by vehicles driven by drivers that don't meet the standards. It has already been criticized by riders and politicians who believe it will result in longer waiting times for drivers and higher prices.