How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners who live in Poland are required to exchange their home driving license to one issued by Poland. was kostet der führerschein in polen is especially the case for people who spend more than 185 days as a legal resident (documented by local address registration or visa).
To do this, they must pass a string of tests and examinations. The most important are:
Medical Exam
The process of getting a driver's license in Poland is a difficult job, especially for those who are expats. The process begins with a medical examination to confirm that you're physically fit enough to drive. You will then have to take a written test to prove your understanding of Polish safety and road rules. You must also take a series driving lessons with an instructor who is certified to demonstrate that you are able to safely operate a vehicle on Polish roads.
Depending on where you're from, the process may 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 can be recognized in Poland without the need to exchange it. Alternatively, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for citizens of countries that aren't part of the Vienna Convention.
However, even if you are from one of these countries, you will need to obtain a PKK (Profile Kandydata Na Kierowce Driver Candidate Profile) and take a medical exam. You'll also have to carry a translation of your driver's licence in Polish as well as a copy your passport and proof of residency, or an official visa.
Once you have completed all the steps, you will be given an appointment date for your driving test at your local road traffic centre (osrodek ruchu drogowego). The test will be conducted on an automated machine. It will comprise multiple-choice tests on traffic laws, road signs and safety rules. The practical test will be administered by a licensed instructor. It will require you to demonstrate your ability to operate a vehicle and change gears, driving around curves and parking.
At present, drivers employed by ridesharing firms such as Uber or Bolt are not required to hold an Polish driving license. However, as of June 2017 the law will change. New laws will require drivers to possess an active Polish license, or face car insurance issues. Drivers who are not part of the Eurozone must also obtain a Polish license within 185 days of settling in Poland or risk having their license revoked.
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 a Polish license after 185 days of legally residing and if your residence is confirmed by local address registration (Zameldowanie) or residence card, visa or other document confirming your right remain. You will still have to pass the theory portion of the national examination unless you have an international driving license that is accompanied by a International Driving Permit.
The theory exam is a multi-part test that consists of a written part and a practical part. It is notoriously difficult even for the Polish people, and most of people fail on their first or second try despite a lot of study. Many companies offer to help you prepare for the test. Beware of scams - they'll make you pay, but they will never offer you the necessary practice.
To book your theory test, visit your nearest WORD (Wojewodzki Osrodek Ruchudrogowego). During the registration you will need a passport along with your driver profile for candidates (PKK). The cost for the part that is theoretical is 30 PLN.
After passing the theory test, you need to register at your district authority (osdzie). drogowy) to pass a practical exam. The process typically lasts a few weeks especially in large cities. You'll need your PKK passport, passport and a document that confirms that you are able to stay in Poland (Zameldowanie).
After passing the practical test, you will receive your driving license within couple of days. To obtain your licence, you'll be required to bring the same documents you 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 responsibilities. To ensure that you drive safely it is essential to adhere to all traffic rules, including wearing the seat belt, obeying traffic signals and observing speed limits. You could be penalized by the police if you don't. It is crucial to understand the Polish driving manners.
Practical Exam
Before you can pass the practical test, you have to enroll in an driving school and pass a number of practical lessons. You can look online for driving schools in your area or ask around for recommendations. The course runs for a few weeks and is extremely affordable. In the course you will be taught how to drive a vehicle and be tested on the driving theory.
The final step in obtaining an Polish driving license is passing the state exam. The test is held at the Province Road Traffic Centers. The exam is divided into two parts: theory and practice. The theory portion is offered in several languages, making it easier for non-Polish-speaking candidates to prepare. In the state test practice you'll have to demonstrate your driving skills and understanding.
You'll also have to pass a course in first aid and eye examination. You may be required to pass oral or written tests based on the type of license you're looking to obtain.
When you apply for a Polish license, you must also submit a copy of your birth certificate as well as proof of identity. If you are younger than 18 years old, you must present an official written consent from your legal guardian or parent. If you are a non-native citizen, you must submit the photocopy of your visa or residence card as well as 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 the requirements and passed all examinations, you are eligible to apply for an Polish driving license at your local Voivodeship office. Bring your international driving permit, if you have it, and the other documents listed above. After you have all the required documents the office will review them and issue your driving license within two weeks. The driving license is valid for 15 years for drivers younger than 70, and for three years for those who are older than 70. The possession of a driving permit will make it easier to travel around Poland and discover all Poland offers.
Registration
The rules of the road are relatively straightforward in Poland the same way as they are in many European countries. Seatbelts are mandatory, alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited and speed limits are enforced. There are some requirements that must be met by foreign drivers. For instance, foreigners who want to get their driving license in Poland must undergo a medical examination and practical lessons before they can take the state examination.
It is not an easy task, especially for those who have limited Polish proficiency. There are other options available, such as driving classes provided by language schools or private tutors. These courses provide individual instruction to prepare students for the licensing exam. In addition, there are various online resources that will help students to comprehend Polish road signs and driving etiquette.
Before submitting an application for a license the applicant must ensure that they have all the required documents on hand. Google Translate can assist you to fill out the application form that 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 pass an oral and written test which covers vehicle types and safety regulations. In addition an initial aid course is required to learn how to react to road accidents.
There's good news for those who have an international driving permit or foreign driving license: they can use it in Poland for up to 185 days after the date of their legal residence. However, from June, this will change: drivers working for ridesharing firms like Uber or Bolt are now required by law to exchange their license from abroad for one in the Polish one.
The new rule was put in place to improve passenger safety and stop people from being transported in vehicles driven by drivers who do not meet the required requirements. It has already been criticized by ridesharing companies and politicians who believe it will cause longer waiting times for drivers as well as increased costs for passengers.