How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners who live in Poland are required 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 185 days as a legal resident (documented by local address registration, visa or residence permit).
To do that they need to pass a variety of tests and tests. The most important are:
Medical Examination
The process of getting a driver's license to drive in Poland is a difficult job, especially for expats. The process begins with a medical test to ensure that you are physically fit to drive. The next step is to pass a written test to prove your understanding of Polish road rules and safety regulations. Then, you'll have to complete a set of driving classes with a certified instructor to prove your competency to operate a vehicle on Polish roads.
Based on the country of your birth, the process could take up to 6 months or longer. Fortunately, if you're 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. For those who are citizens of countries that are not included in the Vienna Convention and not part of the Vienna Convention, an International Driving Permit is recommended.
Even if you're an a resident of one of these countries you will still need to get a PKK and pass a medical examination. You will also need to bring an official translation of your driver's license into Polish and a copy of your passport, as well as a valid visa or proof of residence.
After you have completed the necessary steps, you'll be given a driving 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 regarding traffic laws, road signs and safety regulations. The practical test will be conducted by a licensed instructor and will require you to demonstrate your ability to operate a vehicle that includes changing gears, navigating curves and parking.
In June 2017, drivers working for ridesharing companies like Uber or Bolt will be required to hold a valid Polish driving license. The new laws will require drivers to have a valid Polish license or face car insurance issues. In addition, drivers who are outside of the Eurozone will require a Polish licence within the 185-day period after settling in Poland or risk losing their license.
Theory Exam
If you own a driver's licence issued in a country that is a member to the Road Traffic Convention, you can exchange it for a Polish licence after 185 days of legal residence in the event that your residence is documented by local address registration (Zameldowanie) or a residence card, visa or another document confirming your right reside. You will still need to pass the theory portion of the national test in the event that you hold an international driving permit that is accompanied by a International Driving Permit.
The theory test is divided into two parts: a written and a practical part. Even the Polish find it difficult and many fail their first or second attempts despite a lot of study. There are a variety of firms that promise to help you prepare for the exam, but beware of their swindles - they may take your money and never provide the training you need.
To schedule your theory test to take it, go to your local WORD (Wojewodzki Osrodek Ruchu Drogowego). You'll need your passport and the candidate driver profile (PKK) when you register. The cost for the part that is theoretical is 30 PLN.
After passing the theory test, you must sign up with your district authority (osdzie). drogowy) to pass a practical exam. The process typically takes about a week, particularly in cities with large populations. You'll require your PKK, passport and document confirming that you are legally entitled to remain in Poland (Zameldowanie).
After passing the test, you'll receive your driving licence within a few days. You will need the same documents that you used to obtain your PKK plus a certificate of the driving school. Driving in Poland is a lot of fun, but it is also a responsibility. To ensure safety on the road it is essential to observe all road rules, which includes wearing your seat belt, paying attention to traffic signals, and adhering to speed limits. You will be penalized by the police if do not. It is important to know the Polish driving rules and etiquette.
Practical Exam
You will need to first enroll in an accredited driving school and then complete the series of lessons before you can take your test. You can look online for driving schools in your area, or ask friends for recommendations. The course lasts for a few weeks and is affordable. In the course, you will learn to drive a vehicle and will be tested in driving theory.
The state exam which is the final step in obtaining an Polish license, is held at the Province Road Traffic Centers (Wojewodzki Osrodki Ruchu Drogowego). The exam is divided into two parts: the theory and practice. The theory portion of the test is available in several languages, making it easier for non Polish natives to prepare. In the practice portion of the state exam you will be required to demonstrate your ability to drive by demonstrating your abilities and knowledge.
You will also be required to pass a course in first aid and an eye test. Based on the kind of license you're seeking, you may need to pass additional written or oral tests.
You must submit your birth certificate along with identification documents when you apply for a Polish driving license. If you are under 18 years old, you need to have a written consent from your parent or legal guardian. If you are an international citizen, you will need to submit a photocopy your residence card or visa and any document that demonstrates your legal residency in Poland.
You can apply for a Polish driving licence at the local Voivodeship Office when you have fulfilled all requirements and passed the tests. Bring your international driving license in the event that you have it as well as the other documents listed above. After you've submitted all required documents, your driving license will be issued in two weeks. The driving license will be valid for 15 years for drivers who are younger than 70 and three years for those over 70. A driving license will make it easier to explore Poland and all it has to offer.
Registration
As with most countries in Europe, the rules of the roads in Poland are generally straightforward. Seatbelts are required, alcohol consumption is prohibited and speed limits are firmly enforced. There are some conditions that must be fulfilled by foreign drivers. For instance, foreigners wishing to get their driving license in Poland must pass a medical examination and take practical classes before they can sit for the state exam.
The process does not come without challenges, especially for those who aren't fluent in Polish. But there are solutions, 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 can assist students to comprehend Polish road signs and driving behavior.
Before submitting an application for a license, a foreigner should ensure that they have all required documents in their possession. This includes a completed application form (which can be downloaded but must be filled out by hand in Polish and Polish, so Google Translate is your best friend) and a medical certificate stating that the applicant is fit to drive, and a current photograph that meets the requirements for size and format.
Furthermore, if a candidate intends to pursue a license under categories C or D, they need to pass an oral and written exam that focuses on vehicle types and safety regulations. In addition the first aid course must be attended to learn how to react to road accidents.
If you have an international driving permit or foreign driving license, there's good news: they'll be able to use it in Poland for 185 days after their date of legal residency. Starting in June the rules will change. Drivers who are employed by ridesharing services such as Bolt or Uber are now required to swap their foreign driving license in exchange for one that is a Polish license.
The new law was introduced to improve safety for passengers and to prevent the transportation of people on vehicles driven by drivers who don't meet the requirements. But mouse click the next document has already been criticised by ridesharing companies and politicians who believe it will lead to longer waiting times and more expensive costs for drivers.