How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners who live in Poland have to exchange their country's driving license for one issued by Poland. This is especially true for those who have resided in Poland for more than 185 consecutive days (documented with a local address registration, a visa or a residence permit).
To do that they need to pass several tests and tests. The most important ones are:
Medical Exam
To get a driver's licence In Poland is a daunting task, especially for foreigners. The process starts with a medical test to determine if you are physically fit to drive. The next step is to take a written test to prove your knowledge of Polish safety and road rules. You must also take a series driving lessons with an instructor who is certified to demonstrate that you can safely operate a vehicle on Polish roads.
Based on the country of your birth It could take anywhere from 6 to 12 months or longer. Luckily, if you are an EU citizen or from a country that is party to the Vienna Convention, your domestic driving license will be accepted in Poland without having to exchange it. For citizens of countries not included in the Vienna Convention, an International Driving Permit is recommended.
But, even if you are from one of these countries, you will require a PKK (Profile Kandydata Na Kierowce - Driver Candidate Profile) and pass a medical exam. You must also bring an official translation of your driver's license in Polish as well as a copy your passport, and the valid visa or proof of residency.
Once you have completed all steps, you will receive a date for your driving test at your local road traffic centre (osrodek ruchu drogowego). The theoretical test will be taken on an automated machine and will comprise multiple choice questions on traffic laws, road signs and safety regulations. The test in practice will be administered by a licensed instructor and will require you to demonstrate your ability to operate a vehicle and change gears, maneuvering around curves and parking.
Currently, drivers working for ridesharing companies such as Uber or Bolt are not required to have an Polish driving license, however in June 2017 the law will change. The new laws will require drivers to have an official Polish license, or face insurance issues for cars. Drivers who are not part of the Eurozone must also get an Polish license within 185 days after settling in Poland or risk having their licenses exchanged.
Theory Exam
If you are a holder of a driving licence issued by an country which is a signatory to the Road Traffic Convention you can exchange it with an Polish licence after 185 legal days, as long as your residency is documented by a local address registration (Zameldowanie), residence card, visa or any other document that proves your right to remain. You will still need to pass the part that is theoretical of the national test regardless of whether you have a foreign driving license that is accompanied by a International Driving Permit.
The theory exam is a multi-part test that consists of a written section and a practice one. Even the Polish aren't able to pass it, and many fail in their first or second attempts despite a lot of study. Numerous companies offer assistance to assist you in preparing for the test. Beware of scams - they'll take your money but never provide you with the training.
To schedule your theory exam you must visit the nearest WORD (Wojewodzki Osrodek Ruchudrogowego). You'll require a passport and a 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 test, you need to register at your district authority (osdzie). (drogowy), for a practical examination. The process typically takes a few weeks, especially in large cities. At this point, you'll need a PKK along with a passport, and a proof of your right to stay in Poland (Zameldowanie or Residence Card).
Once the practical exam is passed, you can obtain your driving license within a few days. To get your license, you'll have to present the same documents you have used to register your PKK along with a valid certificate from the driving school. Driving in Poland is an enjoyable experience however, it's also a duty. To drive safely, it is important to observe all road rules, which includes wearing the seat belt, obeying traffic signals and observing speed limits. If you don't you will be reprimanded by the police. This is why it is important to master the Polish driving etiquette.
Practical Exam
Before you can sit for the test, you have to enroll in a driving school and pass a number of practical lessons. You can look online for driving schools in your area or ask around for suggestions. The course is affordable and lasts for a few weeks. In the lessons you will be taught how to drive a vehicle and be tested on the driving theory.
The state test that is the last step to obtain the Polish license, is conducted at the Province Road Traffic Centers (Wojewodzki Osrodki Ruchu Drogowego). The exam has two parts of theory and practice. The theory part is available in several languages, making it simpler for non-Polish speakers to study. In the state test practice you'll have to demonstrate your driving skills and knowledge.
You'll also need to pass a course in first aid and an eye exam. You may also need to pass written or oral tests based on the type of license you're seeking.
In order to obtain a Polish license you will also need to submit a copy of your birth certificate as well as proof of identity. If you are under 18 years old, you'll need a written consent of your legal guardian or parent. If you are a foreign citizen, you must provide the photocopy of your residence card or visa along with an official document that proves your legal residency in Poland like a certificate of studies or a visa stamp.
You can apply for your Polish driving license at the local Voivodeship Office after you have fulfilled all requirements and passed the exams. Bring your international driving license in the event that you have it, and the other documents mentioned above. Once you have all the required documents the office will review them and issue your driving permit in about two weeks. The license is valid for 15-years for drivers younger than 70 and three years for drivers older than 70. The possession of a driving permit will make it much easier for you to get around Poland and discover all Poland has to offer.
Registration
The rules of the road are straightforward in Poland the same way as they are in many European countries. Seatbelts are required and alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited and speed limits are strictly enforced. However, some specific requirements for foreign drivers need to be taken into consideration. For instance, foreigners who want to get a driver's license in Poland must pass a medical examination and practical training before they can sit for the state exam.
The process isn't without difficulties, particularly for those who don't speak in Polish. But there are lkw führerschein in polen machen , such as driving classes offered by numerous language schools or private tutors that offer individualized instruction and help students prepare for the licensing examination. In addition there are a variety of online resources that will help students understand Polish road signs and driving manners.
A foreigner should possess all the required documents before applying for an 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.
Additionally, if the candidate intends to pursue a license under categories C or D, they need to be able to pass an oral and written test that focuses on the type of vehicle and safety regulations. In addition the first aid course must be taken to learn how to respond to road accidents.
For those who have an international driving permit or a foreign driving license, there's some good news: they are able to use it in Poland for 185 days after their date of legal residency. However, from June this will change: drivers working for ridesharing firms such as Uber or Bolt are legally required to exchange their foreign license for a Polish one.
The new law was enacted to enhance safety of passengers and prevent passengers from being transported in vehicles driven by drivers that don't meet the standards. It has been criticized already by ridesharing companies and politicians who believe it will result in longer wait periods for drivers and increased costs for passengers.