How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners living in Poland have to exchange their home country's driving license for one issued by Poland. This is especially true for those who have spent more than 185 days as a legal resident (documented by local address registration, visa or residence permit).
To accomplish this, they have to pass several tests and tests. The most important ones are:
Medical Exam
It can be difficult to get a driving license in Poland especially for foreigners. The process begins with a medical examination to ensure that you are physically fit to drive. You must then take a written test to demonstrate your knowledge of Polish safety and road rules. Finally, you will need to pass a series of driving lessons in a practical manner with a certified instructor in order to prove your competency to operate the vehicle on Polish roads.
Based on the country of your birth It could take anywhere from 6 to 12 months or longer. If you're a citizen of the EU or a member country of the Vienna Convention, then your domestic driving licence will be accepted in Poland without needing to exchange it. Alternatively, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for those who reside in countries that are not part of the Vienna 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 undergo an exam for medical conditions. You'll also need to bring a translated version of your driver's license into Polish, as well as an original passport and proof of residency, or an official visa.
Once you have completed all the steps, you will be given an appointment for your driving test at your local road traffic centre (osrodek ruchu drogowego). The test is performed on an automated device and will consist of multiple-choice questions about traffic laws road signs, safety rules. The practical test will be administered by a certified instructor and will require you to demonstrate your ability to operate a car and change gears, maneuvering around curves and parking.
Currently, drivers employed by ridesharing firms such as Uber or Bolt are not required to possess an Polish driving license, however in June 2017 the law will change. New laws will require drivers to possess an active Polish license, or face insurance issues for cars. In addition, drivers from outside the Eurozone will need to get a Polish license within the 185-day period after settling in Poland or risk losing their license.
Theory Exam
If you have an driving license issued by the country that is a signatory to the Road Traffic Convention you can exchange it with a Polish license after 185 legal days, if your residency is confirmed by the registration of your address in Poland (Zameldowanie) or visa, residence card or any other document that proves your right to remain. You must still pass the part that is theoretical of the national examination in the event that you hold an international driving license that is accompanied by a International Driving Permit.
The theory exam is a multiple-part test comprised of a written portion and a practical part. Even the Polish struggle with it and many fail their first or second attempts despite a lot of study. There are many companies that offer preparation for the test, but beware of their swindles - they may take your money and never provide the training you need.
Visit your nearest WORD location to schedule your theory test. You will require a passport and a candidate driver profile (PKK) during registration. A fee for the theoretical part of the test is 30 PLN.
After passing the theory test, you will need to sign up with your district authority (osdzie). (drogowy), to take a test. The process usually takes a week or two, especially in big cities. In this stage, you'll need an PKK, a passport and a document that confirms your right to remain in Poland (Zameldowanie or Residence Card).
Once the practical exam is passed, you can obtain your driving licence in some days. You'll need the exact documents that you used to obtain your PKK and a certification from the driving school. Driving in Poland is an enjoyable experience however, it's also a duty. If you want to drive safely, you must adhere to all the rules of the road. including wearing seat belts, adhering to speed limits and following traffic signals. You will be fined by the police if do not. It is essential to be aware of the Polish driving rules and etiquette.
Practical Exam
You'll need to enroll at a driving academy and complete an extensive series of practical classes 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 course is inexpensive and lasts a few weeks. In the lessons, you will learn how to drive a car and be tested on the driving theory.
The state test, which is the final step to obtain an Polish license, is held at the Province Road Traffic Centers (Wojewodzki Osrodki Ruchu Drogowego). The exam is divided into two parts: theory, and practice. The theory portion is available in a variety of languages, making it easy for non-Polish speakers to study. During the state exam practice, you will need to demonstrate your driving skills and knowledge.
You'll also need to pass a first-aid course and pass an eye test. Based on the type of license you're pursuing, you may have to take additional oral or written exams.
You must submit your birth certificate along with proof of identity when applying for a Polish driving license. If you are younger than 18 years old, you must present an official written consent from your legal guardian or parent. If you are an international citizen, you'll require a photocopy of your residence card or visa and any other document that proves your legal stay in Poland.
You can apply for your Polish driving license at the local Voivodeship Office once you have fulfilled all requirements and passed the tests. Bring your international driving permit, if you have it as well as the other documents mentioned above. After you have all the required documents the office will process them and issue your driver's license in about two weeks. The driving license is valid for 15 years for drivers who are younger than 70 and three years for those who are older than 70. A driving permit will make it easier to explore Poland and all it has to offer.
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Like most countries in Europe, the rules of the road in Poland are generally straightforward. Seatbelts are compulsory and drinking alcohol is strictly forbidden and speed limits are enforced. However, certain specific requirements for foreign drivers have to be considered. For instance, foreigners who want to obtain a driving license in Poland must undergo a medical examination and practical lessons before they can sit for the state exam.
It's not an easy process, especially for those who have limited Polish proficiency. There are other options available, for instance, driving lessons offered by language schools or private tutors. These classes provide individual instruction to prepare students for the test. There are also many online resources that can assist students in understanding Polish road signs, driving etiquette, and other aspects of driving.
A foreign national should have all of the necessary documents before applying for a driver's license. This includes a completed application form (which can be downloaded but must be completed by hand in Polish and Polish, so Google Translate is your best option), a medical certificate that states that the applicant is fit to drive, and a current photograph that meets the requirements for size and format.
Additionally, if the candidate intends to pursue a license under categories C or D, they must also pass an oral and written test that is focused on the types of vehicles and safety regulations. In addition an initial aid course must be attended to learn how to respond to accidents on the road.
If you have an international driving permit or foreign driving license, there's great news: they'll be able to use it in Poland for 185 days after the date they have legal residency. In June the policy will change. Drivers who are employed by ride-sharing companies like Bolt or Uber are now required to swap their foreign driving license in exchange for one that is a Polish license.
The new requirement was introduced to ensure the safety of passengers and stop the transportation of people on vehicles driven by drivers who don't meet the necessary requirements. However, it has been criticised by ridesharing companies as well as politicians who believe it could lead to longer wait times and higher costs for drivers.