How to Get a Driving License in Poland
Many foreigners who reside in Poland are forced to exchange their driving license in their country for one issued by Poland. This is especially relevant for those who have lived in Poland for more than 185 consecutive days (documented with a local address registration or visa or residence permit).
To achieve this, they must to pass several tests and tests. The most important are:
Medical Examination
Getting a driver's license In Poland is a difficult task, particularly for expats. The process starts with a medical examination to confirm that you're physically fit to drive. Then you need to take a written exam to demonstrate your knowledge of Polish road rules and safety regulations. In addition, you'll need to pass a series of practical driving lessons with a qualified instructor to prove your competency to operate the vehicle on Polish roads.
Depending on where you are from, the process could take 6 months or even 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 having to exchange it. For citizens of countries that aren't included in the Vienna Convention, an International Driving Permit is recommended.
However, even if are from one of these countries, you will need to obtain a PKK (Profile Kandydata Na Kierowce - Driver Candidate Profile) and pass an examination for medical reasons. You'll also need to bring the translation of your driver's license in Polish, a copy of your passport, and an original visa or proof of residency.
After you have completed all the necessary steps, you will be given a driving test date at your local road traffic center (osrodek ruchu drogowego). The theory test will be administered by an automated machine. It will comprise multiple-choice questions about traffic laws, road signs, and safety regulations. The test on the practical side is conducted by a licensed driver and requires you to demonstrate the ability to drive a car including changing gears, navigating corners and parking.
Currently, drivers employed by ridesharing companies like Uber or Bolt are not required to hold a Polish driving license, but as of June 2017, this will change. New laws will require drivers to have an active Polish driving license or face insurance problems. Drivers who are not part of the Eurozone must also obtain an Polish license within 185 days of settling in Poland or risk having their license exchanged.
Theory Exam
If you hold the driving license of an country that is a signatory to the Road Traffic Convention you can swap it out for the Polish license after 185 legal days, if your residency is documented by the registration of your address in Poland (Zameldowanie) or residence card, visa or any other document that confirms your right to remain. However, you'll be required to pass the theory portion of the national examination in the event that your foreign license 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 a majority of test takers fail on their first or second attempt even after a lot of studying. There are several companies that offer to help you prepare for the exam, but beware of frauds by these companies - they might make you pay and then not give you the preparations.
Visit your nearest WORD to arrange your theory test. During the registration you will need a passport along with your driver profile for candidates (PKK). A fee for the theoretical portion of the test is 30 PLN.
After passing the theory test, you must register at your district authority (osdzie). drogowy) for a practical test. The process typically lasts a few weeks particularly in cities with large populations. You'll require your PKK along with a passport and a document that proves you have the right to stay in Poland (Zameldowanie).
After the practical test has been passed, you can obtain your driving licence in some days. You'll need the same documents that you used to get your PKK and a certification from the driving school. Driving in Poland is full of fun, but it also comes with a great deal of responsibility. To drive safely, it is important to adhere to all traffic regulations, including wearing the seat belt, obeying traffic signals and observing speed limits. You could be penalized by the police if you don't. This is why it is very important to master the Polish driving etiquette.
Practical Exam
You must first enroll in a driving academy and complete an extensive series of practical classes before you can sit for your practical test. motorrad führerschein polen can locate a driving school in your location by searching online or asking around for suggestions. The course is affordable and takes a few weeks. During the lessons you will learn how to drive a car and will be tested in driving theory.
The final step to get the Polish driving license is the state test. The test is held at the Province Road Traffic Centers. The test is divided into two parts: theory, and practice. The theory portion of the exam is offered in several languages, making it easier for non Polish natives to prepare. During the practice part of the state examination you will be required to demonstrate your ability to drive by showing your skills and understanding.
You'll also have to pass a first aid course and take an eye test. Based on the kind of license you're planning to pursue, you might need to take additional oral or written exams.
You must submit your birth certificate along with evidence of identity when you apply for a Polish driving license. If you are younger than 18, you will need a written consent of your parent or legal guardian. If you are a non-native citizen, you must submit an image of your visa or residence card and the document that confirms your legal residency in Poland for example, the certificate of studies or a visa stamp.
You can apply for a Polish driving license at the local Voivodeship Office when you have fulfilled all requirements and passed the exams. Be sure to bring your international driving permit if you have one, along with all of the documents mentioned above. After you have all the necessary documents the office will process them and issue your driver's license in about two weeks. The driving license will be valid for 15 years for those less than 70 and for three years for those who are older than 70. A driving license makes it easier to explore Poland and all it has to offer.
Registration
Like many countries in Europe the rules of the roads in Poland are generally clear. Seatbelts are compulsory and drinking alcohol is strictly prohibited and speed limits are enforced. However, some specific requirements for foreign drivers need to be taken into account. For example foreigners wishing to get their driving licenses in Poland must first pass a medical test and undergo practical training.
It's not an easy task particularly for those with limited Polish proficiency. But there are solutions, such as driving courses offered by various private tutors or language schools, which provide individualized instruction and prepare students for the licensing examination. There are many online resources to assist students in understanding Polish road signs, driving etiquette and other aspects of driving.
Foreigners must have all of the necessary documents before applying for an driver's license. Google Translate can assist you to fill out the application form which can be downloaded, but must be completed by hand.
If the applicant 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 handle road accidents, the candidate must also take a class on first aid.
For those who have an international driving permit or a foreign driving license, there's some good news: they can continue to use it in Poland for 185 days following their date of legal residence. Starting in June the policy will change. Drivers who are employed by ride-sharing companies like Bolt or Uber are now required to exchange their foreign driving license to the Polish license.
The new rule was put in place to enhance safety of passengers and stop people from being transported by vehicles driven by drivers who don't meet the requirements. However, it has been condemned by ridesharing companies as well as politicians who believe it will lead to longer waiting times and more expensive costs for drivers.