Three Reasons Why Your Get A Driving License In Poland Is Broken (And How To Fix It)
How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners living in Poland find themselves having to exchange their home country's driving license in order to obtain an Polish one. This is especially true for those who have resided in Poland for more than 185 consecutive days (documented by a local address registration, a visa or a residence permit).
To accomplish this they must pass a string of tests and examinations. The most important of these are:
Medical Exam
It isn't easy to obtain an driving license in Poland especially for foreigners. The process begins with a medical exam to confirm that you are physically fit for driving. Then you need to take a written exam to demonstrate your knowledge of Polish road rules and safety rules. In addition, you'll need to complete a set of driving lessons in a practical manner with a certified instructor to prove your competency to operate a vehicle 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 from one of the countries that are parties to the Vienna Convention, your domestic driving license can be recognized in Poland without having to exchange it. For citizens of countries that aren't included in the Vienna Convention and not part of the Vienna Convention, an International Driving Permit is recommended.
However, even if you are from one of these countries, you'll need to obtain a PKK (Profile Kandydata Na Kilorowce - Driver Candidate Profile) and pass an exam for medical conditions. You will also be required to carry a translation of your driver's licence in Polish as well as the passport copy and proof of residence or a valid visa.
After you have completed the necessary steps, you'll be given a driving test date at your local road traffic center (osrodek ruchu drogowego). The theory test will be conducted on an automated machine. It will comprise multiple-choice questions on traffic laws, road signs, and safety regulations. The test on the practical side is conducted by a licensed driver. It requires you to demonstrate your ability to drive a car including changing gears, maneuvering corners and parking.
At present, drivers working for ridesharing companies such as Uber or Bolt are not required to possess a Polish driving license, however in June 2017, this will change. The new laws will require drivers to have a valid Polish driving license or face insurance issues. Drivers who are not part of the Eurozone must also obtain a Polish license within 185 days after settling in Poland or risk having their licenses exchanged.
Theory Exam
If you hold a driving license issued in the country that is a member to the Road Traffic Convention, you can exchange it for a Polish licence after 185 days of legal residence, provided that your residency is documented by local address registration (Zameldowanie) or a residence card, visa or another document confirming your right to reside. You will still need to 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 test is divided into two parts: a written and a practical portion. It is notoriously difficult, even for the Polish people, and the majority of test takers fail on their first or second try even after a lot of studying. There are many companies that offer preparation for the test, but beware of their swindles - they may be able to take your money and not give you the preparations.
To schedule your theory test, visit your nearest WORD (Wojewodzki Osrodek Ruchu Drogowego). You will require a passport and a candidate driver profile (PKK) during registration. The fee for the part that is theoretical is 30 PLN.
After passing the theory test After passing the theory exam, you must sign up at the district authority office (osdzie (drogowy), for a practical examination. In most cases this process can take a week or two especially in the larger cities. In this stage, you'll need an PKK as well as a passport and a proof of your right to reside in Poland (Zameldowanie or Residence Card).
After the practical test has been passed, you can obtain your driving license within a few days. To obtain your licence, you'll need 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 a lot of fun but it's also a responsibility. If you want to drive safely, you must obey all the rules of the road - this includes using seat belts, observing speed limits and following traffic signals. You'll be fined by the police if you do not. It is essential to be aware of the Polish driving etiquette.
Practical Exam
You must first enroll in an accredited driving school and then complete an extensive series of practical classes before you are able to take your practical exam. You can search the internet for driving schools in your area or ask for recommendations. The course lasts for a couple of weeks and is affordable. During the lessons you will learn how to drive a car and test your driving theory.
The final step to obtain an Polish driving license is the state exam. The test is held at the Province Road Traffic Centers. The exam is divided into two parts: the theory and practice. The theory portion is available in a variety of languages, making it simpler for non-Polish speakers to study. When you take the state exam you'll need to demonstrate your driving skills and understanding.
You will also be required to pass a course in first aid and eye examination. Based on the type of license you're planning to pursue, you might need to take additional oral or written exams.
During the process of getting a Polish license, you must also submit an original birth certificate as well as evidence of your identity. If you are younger than 18 years old, you must submit the written consent of your legal guardian or parent. If you are a non-native citizen, you need to submit an image of your visa or residence card as well as the document that confirms your legal residence in Poland like an official certificate of study or visa stamp.
After you have fulfilled all the requirements and passed all exams, you can apply for an Polish driving license at your local Voivodeship office. Bring your international driving license, if you have it as well as the other documents mentioned above. After you've submitted all required documents, your driving licence 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 who are over 70. A driving permit will make it easier to explore Poland and all it has to offer.
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Like many countries in Europe the rules of the road in Poland are generally simple. Seatbelts are mandatory, alcohol consumption is prohibited and speed limits are rigorously enforced. However, specific requirements for foreign drivers have to be considered. For instance, foreigners who wish to obtain their driving licenses in Poland must first pass a medical examination and then take a practical driving course.
The process is not without challenges, especially for those who aren't fluent in Polish. However, there are solutions such as driving courses provided by a variety of language schools or private tutors, which provide individualized instruction and prepare students for the licensing examination. There are also many online resources to aid students in understanding Polish road signs, driving etiquette, and other aspects of driving.
A foreign national should have all of the necessary documents prior to applying for an driver's license. Google Translate can help you fill out the application form which is available for download, but must be completed by hand.
If the candidate wants to be licensed in categories C or D, they must pass an oral and written exam which covers vehicle types and safety regulations. To be able to deal with road accidents, the candidate must also complete a course on first aid.
Good news for those with an international driving permit or a foreign driving license you can use it in Poland up to 185 days after the date of legal residence. In June the policy will change. Drivers who work for ridesharing services like Bolt or Uber are now required to swap their foreign driving license for a Polish license.
The new requirement was introduced to improve safety for passengers and prevent the transport of passengers on vehicles operated by drivers who don't meet the required requirements. It has been criticized already by the ridesharing industry and politicians who believe that it will cause longer waiting periods for drivers and more expensive prices.