If you are planning to move to Poland, you are probably wondering whether you can drive in your host country. This depends on a number of factors, but in general, you should not have any problems getting behind the wheel. However, we recommend that you inquire about traffic rules and road safety conditions.
European Union citizens, for example, can drive in Poland with their original driver’s license, while others need an international driving permit in addition to their local license.
Who can drive in Poland?
As mentioned above, if you are from one of the European Union member states, you can drive in the country with your original license, but this is limited to 180 days. After 6 months of staying in Poland, you will need to apply for a Polish license.
If you are coming from outside the EU, you will need your original driving license and an international driving permit. However, this international permit is also only valid for 180 days. After that, you will need to apply for a Polish driving license to avoid problems with car insurance.
Applying for a local driver’s license
The process of obtaining a driver’s license in Poland is practically the same for those who already have a driver’s license in their country and those who do not.
Here are the requirements for obtaining a Polish driving license:
- First, you must legally reside in Poland.
- Secondly, you must have resided in the country for more than 180 days.
- Third, you must meet the age restrictions for your driving category (18 years for category B, for example).
- Fourth, you will need to undergo a medical examination to ensure you meet all health requirements for driving (vision, hearing, etc.).
- Finally, you need to pass two driving exams: theory and practical.
If you need to take a driving course, please note that most driving schools only offer lessons in Polish. However, you can hire a German or English-speaking instructor for an additional fee. You will be entitled to a minimum of 30 hours of theoretical and practical driving lessons with an accredited driving instructor. After successfully completing these courses, you can register for the exams, which can take place on the same day.
Roads in Poland
Since Poland became a member of the European Union, it has invested heavily in road development, as the country is a major exchange platform for the region. Thus, new roads are built every year to facilitate access to all large and small cities.
Read also: Toll roads in Poland
The motorway is tolled in different sections. In large cities it can be paid by credit card. Large toll stations accept payment in PLN, EUR and USD. In general, toll rates vary depending on the type, size and weight of the vehicle.
Car insurance and technical inspection in Poland
In Poland you are required to have car insurance and there are several insurance options to choose from. OC (third party liability insurance) will cover you in the event of an accident that is not your fault, however, if the accident is indeed your fault you will not be covered. There is also AC (auto helmet insurance) which will cover you if you are the cause of the accident. However, residents are generally advised to get a comprehensive insurance package including OC and AC, as well as accident and theft insurance, free towing, etc.
Another reason why you will need insurance in Poland is to undergo a MOT (technical inspection of the car). You can undergo a MOT and obtain the necessary documents only if you are insured in Poland. If your car is insured abroad, it is best to either undergo a MOT in the country where your car is insured, or purchase local insurance.
Road safety and rules in Poland
Driving rules and etiquette in Poland are quite simple, and if you follow the rules carefully, you should have no problems on the road. Always wear your seat belt, never drive under the influence of alcohol (the legal blood alcohol content is 0.02%) and obey the speed limit.
The speed limit is 50-60 km/h in city centers, 90-120 km/h outside cities, 120 km/h on expressways and 140 km/h on motorways. As in most countries, you will drive on the right and will be overtaken on the left. Priority is given to trams in cities and horse-drawn carriages in small villages. All vehicles must be equipped with a fire extinguisher. Otherwise, the driver will be fined. Headlights must be on, both day and night, all year round.
Useful to know:
If a car driving towards you flashes its headlights, it could mean one of two things: there’s a traffic police station nearby or you forgot to turn on your lights.
Fines in Poland
If you are fined, you must pay within 7 days of receipt. In case of dangerous driving due to alcohol consumption (0.05 g per liter), you face imprisonment.