How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners who live in Poland have to exchange their driving license in their country for one issued by Poland. This is particularly the case for those who have spent more than 180 days as a legally resident (documented by local address registration, visa or residence permit).
To do that they need to pass a number of tests and exams. The most important of these are:
Medical Examination
It isn't easy to obtain a driving license in Poland especially for foreigners. The process begins with a medical examination to confirm that you're physically fit to drive. After that, you must take a written exam to demonstrate your knowledge of Polish road rules and safety rules. Then, you'll have to complete a set of driving lessons in a practical manner with a qualified instructor to prove your competency to operate the vehicle on Polish roads.
Depending on where you are from The process can take 6 months or even longer. If you are a citizen of the EU or a member of the Vienna Convention, then your domestic driving licence will be accepted in Poland without having to exchange it. Alternatively an International Driving Permit (IDP) is a must for those from countries that aren't a part of the convention.
However, even if you are from one of these countries, you'll need to obtain a PKK (Profile Kandydata Na Kierowce Driver Candidate Profile) and take a medical exam. You'll also need to carry a translation of your driver's licence into Polish and the passport copy and proof of residency, or a valid visa.
Once you have completed all the steps, you will be given a date for your driving test at the local road traffic centre (osrodek ruchu drogowego). The test will be performed on an automated device and will comprise multiple-choice questions about traffic laws road signs, safety regulations. The test on the practical side is conducted by a certified driver and requires you to demonstrate the ability to drive a car such as changing gears, driving around corners and parking.
In June 2017, drivers working for ride-sharing companies such as Uber or Bolt will be required to hold an active Polish driving license. New laws will force drivers to have an active Polish driving license or face insurance problems. In addition, drivers who are outside of the Eurozone will require a Polish license within 185 days of settling in Poland or risk exchanging their license.
Theory Exam
If you are a holder of the driving license of a country that is a signatory of the Road Traffic Convention you can exchange it with an Polish licence after 185 days, if your residency is documented through a local address registration (Zameldowanie) or a residence card, visa, or any other document that proves your right to remain. You must still pass the theory portion of the national exam in the event that you hold a foreign driving license that is accompanied by a International Driving Permit.
The theory exam is a multiple-part test comprised of a written section and a practical one. It is notoriously difficult, even for the Polish people, and most of people fail on their first or second try, despite much studying. Numerous companies offer assistance to assist you in preparing for the test. Beware of scams - they'll take your money but never offer you the necessary training.
Visit your nearest WORD office to arrange your theory test. You'll require your passport as well as the candidate driver profile (PKK) at the time of registration. The fee for the theoretical portion of the test is 30 PLN.
After passing the theory exam After passing the theory exam, you must sign up at your district authority office (osdzie drogowy) for a practical exam. In most cases, this process takes a week or two particularly in large cities. At this point, you'll require a PKK, a passport and a document that confirms your right to stay in Poland (Zameldowanie or Residence Card).
If you pass the practical test, you'll receive your driving license within a few days. You'll need the same documents you used to obtain your PKK plus a certificate of the driving school. Driving in Poland can be a lot of fun, but also the responsibility. If you wish 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 don't you will be reprimanded by the police. This is why it is important to learn the Polish driving manners.
Practical Exam
You will need to first enroll in a driving academy and complete an extensive series of practical classes before you can take your practical exam. You can find a driving school in your location by searching online or asking your friends for recommendations. The course is inexpensive and takes a few weeks. In the course, you will learn how to drive a car and be tested in driving theory.
The state test that is the last step in obtaining the Polish license, is conducted at the Province Road Traffic Centers (Wojewodzki Osrodki Ruchu Drogowego). The test consists of two parts that are practice and theory. The theory portion is available in several languages, making it easier for non-Polish speakers to prepare. During the practice part of the state exam, you must demonstrate your ability to drive by demonstrating your skills and understanding.
You'll also need to take a course in first aid and an eye test. You may also need to pass oral or written tests based on the type of license you're looking to obtain.
You must provide your birth certificate along with proof of identity when applying for the Polish driving license. If you are younger than 18 years old, you'll need a written consent of your legal guardian or parent. If you are an international citizen, you'll require a photocopy of your visa or residence card, as well as any document that demonstrates your legal residence in Poland.
After you have fulfilled all of the requirements and passed all exams, you can apply for an Polish driving license at your 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 license within 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 older than 70. A driving permit will make it easier to explore Poland and all it offers.
Registration
The rules of the road are straightforward in Poland like they are in many European countries. Seatbelts are mandatory, alcohol consumption is prohibited and speed limits are rigorously enforced. However, some specific requirements for foreign drivers need to be taken into consideration. For instance foreigners looking to get their driving licenses in Poland must first pass a medical test and take practical lessons.
It's not an easy task particularly for those with limited Polish proficiency. There are other options available, such as driving classes offered by language schools or private tutors. These courses provide specific instruction that prepares 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.
motorradführerschein in polen should have all of the necessary documents before applying for an driver's license. This includes an application form that is completed (which is available for download but must be filled out in person in Polish, so Google Translate is your best option) and a medical certificate that states that the applicant is healthy enough to drive, and one current photo that is in compliance with dimensions and format requirements.
If the candidate wants to obtain a license for categories C or D they must also pass an oral and written exam which covers vehicle types and safety regulations. To be able to deal with road accidents, the applicant must also attend a course on first aid.
A good thing 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 are employed by ridesharing services such as Bolt or Uber are now required to exchange their foreign driving license in exchange for a Polish license.
The new requirement was introduced to improve safety for passengers and to prevent the transportation of passengers in vehicles driven by drivers who do not meet the standards. But it has already been criticized by ridesharing companies and politicians who believe it could lead to longer wait times and higher prices for drivers.