How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners who reside in Poland are forced to exchange their home country's driving license to a Polish one. This is particularly true for those who have lived in Poland for more than 185 consecutive days (documented with a local address registration, a visa or a residence permit).
To accomplish this they must pass a string of tests and exams. The most important ones are:
Medical Exam
It can be difficult to get a driving permit in Poland particularly for foreigners. The procedure begins with a medical test to ensure you are physically fit enough to drive. The next step is to take a written test to prove your understanding of Polish safety and road regulations. In addition, you'll need to complete a series of practical driving lessons with a certified instructor in order to prove your competency to operate an automobile on Polish roads.
Depending on the country you're from, the process can take up to 6 months or one year or more. Luckily, if you are an EU citizen or a country that is party to the Vienna Convention, your domestic driving license will be recognized in Poland without the need to exchange it. In addition, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is a must for citizens of countries that aren't a part of the convention.
Even if you are an a resident of one of these countries, you still have to obtain a PKK and be able to pass a medical exam. You'll also need to bring the translation of your driver's license in Polish and a copy of your passport, and a valid visa or proof of residency.
After you have completed all the required steps, you will be offered a test time at your local road traffic center (osrodek ruchu drogowego). The theoretical test will be taken on an automated machine and will consist of multiple choice questions on traffic laws road signs, safety regulations. The practical test will be administered by a certified instructor and will require you to demonstrate your ability to operate a vehicle that includes changing gears, navigating curves and parking.
At present, drivers employed by ridesharing companies such as Uber or Bolt are not required to possess an Polish driving license, but in June 2017 the situation will change. The new laws will require drivers to have a valid Polish license or face car insurance issues. In addition, drivers who are outside the Eurozone must obtain a Polish licence within 185 days of settling in Poland or risk exchanging their license.
Theory Exam
If you hold a driving licence issued by an country that is a signatory to the Road Traffic Convention you can swap it out for an Polish licence after 185 days, if your residency is confirmed by an address registration for your local area (Zameldowanie) or residence card, visa or any other document that confirms your right to remain. You will still have to pass the part that is theoretical of the national examination in the event that you hold an international driving permit which is accompanied by an International Driving Permit.
The theory exam is a multiple-part test comprised of a written part and a practical part. It is notoriously difficult even for Polish people, and most of test takers fail on their first or second try, despite much studying. Many companies offer to help you prepare for the test. Beware of scams - they will make you pay, but they will never offer you the necessary training.
To book your theory test to take it, go to your local WORD (Wojewodzki Osrodek Ruchu Drogowego). You will require your passport as well as the candidate driver profile (PKK) during registration. The fee for the theoretical part of the test is 30 PLN.
After passing the theory exam, you need to sign up at the district authority office (osdzie (drogowy) (drogowy) to take a test. This process usually takes about a week, especially in large cities. At this time you will require a PKK, a passport and a document that confirms your right to stay in Poland (Zameldowanie or Residence Card).
After passing the test, you'll receive your driving license within couple of days. You'll need the exact documents as you did to obtain your PKK along with a proof of the driving school. Driving in Poland can be full of fun, but it also comes with the responsibility. To drive safely, it is important to follow all road rules, which includes wearing a seat belt, following traffic signals and observing speed limits. You will be penalized by the police if don't. This is why it is so important to master the Polish driving etiquette.
Practical Exam
Before you can pass the test you must enroll in an driving school and pass a number of practical lessons. You can search online 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 be taught how to drive a car and also be tested on the theory of driving.
The final step to get the Polish driving license is passing the state test. It is administered at the Province Road Traffic Centers. The exam is split into two parts: theory, and practice. The theory portion of the exam is offered in multiple languages, which makes it easier for non Polish natives to prepare. In the state test practice, you will need to demonstrate your driving abilities and knowledge.
You will also need to pass a first-aid course and have an eye test. Depending on the type of license you are planning to pursue, you might need to pass additional written or oral examinations.
In order to obtain a Polish license You must also provide an original birth certificate and evidence of your identity. If you are under 18 years old, you must submit the written consent of your legal guardian or parent. If you are a foreign citizen, you must provide the photocopy of your visa or residence card along with an official document that proves your legal stay in Poland for example, the certificate of studies or a visa stamp.
Once you have met all of the requirements and passed all exams, you can apply for the Polish driving license at the local voivodeship office. Bring your international driving permit If you have one, and the other documents listed above. After you've provided all the required documents, your driving license will be issued in two weeks. The driving license will be valid for 15 years for those who are younger than 70, and three years for those over 70. A driving license 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 easy in Poland, as they are in most European countries. Seatbelts are mandatory, alcohol consumption is prohibited and speed limits are strictly enforced. There are some conditions that must be fulfilled by foreign drivers. For get more info , foreigners wishing to get their driving license in Poland must take a medical exam and take practical classes before they can sit for the state examination.
The process isn't without challenges, particularly for those who don't speak in Polish. But there are solutions, such as driving courses offered by various private tutors or language schools, which provide individualized instruction and help students prepare for the licensing exam. In addition there are numerous online resources that can assist students to comprehend Polish road signs and driving etiquette.
A foreign national should have all of the necessary documents prior to applying for a driver's license. Google Translate can help you complete the application form, which is available for download, but must be filled out by hand.
If the candidate wants to get a license in categories C or D they must pass an oral and a written exam that covers vehicle types and safety regulations. To learn how to deal with road accidents, the driver must also attend a course on first aid.
A good thing for those with an international driving permit, or foreign driving licence you can use it in Poland up to 185 calendar days after the date of their legal residence. Beginning in June, this will change. Drivers who work for ride-sharing companies like Bolt or Uber are now required to exchange their driving licenses from abroad to the Polish license.
The new law was enacted to enhance safety of passengers and to prevent people from being transported by vehicles driven by drivers that do not meet the required standards. However, it has been criticized by ridesharing companies and politicians who believe it will result in longer waiting times and more expensive costs for drivers.