How to Buy a Polish Driving License
If you're a non-native living in Poland, getting a Polish driving license can be a real problem. It needs a lot of documentation and can take some time for the process to be completed.
There are some things you can do to aid in making the process more smoothly. This article will explain how to exchange a foreign driving licence for one that is a Polish license.
What do you need to know?
A Polish driving license, also known as kup prawo jazdy kat B+ Jazdy (Polish for "driver's license") is essential to experience the stunning scenery of Poland as well as its old cities and charming villages. As such, it's important to know the procedure for obtaining one and the different categories available.
To obtain the driver's license in Poland, you must be at minimum 16 years old to drive the motorcycle and 17 for a car (with or without a legal guardian). You will also need to take an eye test and a first aid course. In certain instances you might be required to pass additional oral and written exams as well.
You'll need to send an application form that is completed along with the necessary documents to the Urzad Miasta in your city to start the process. You can find the address of your city using Google Maps or visiting their website. Once you've submitted the documents you'll get a number and have to wait until your name is called to take the test.
Depending on the country of origin, it can take a few months for the authorities to forward your complete driving record to Poland. Once the information is received, you'll receive a notification that your Polish licence is ready to pickup.
If you're a EU or EFTA citizen, your driving license will be recognized automatically in Poland. If you're from a country which is not part of EU or EFTA you'll need to obtain an international driving permit. These are not the international driving permits and can be purchased by companies who specialize in this kind of service.
The good news is that the process is quite simple and there are a lot of online resources to help you navigate it. For instance, you could check the mObywatel 2.0 application to learn the steps to take to get an Polish driver's license.
A driver's license in Poland will give you the liberty to explore this beautiful nation at your own pace. It's a fantastic option for expats and a major step towards integrating. So why are you sitting around for? Grab your keys and head out on the road!
How to do it
If you're a traveler or studying abroad, or moving to Poland for work, it's essential to understand the local driving laws and regulations. Having the Polish driving license makes it easier to travel around the country and ensures you're following the law driving. While it might seem like a hassle, it's actually quite simple to get one if meet the requirements.
First, you must satisfy the residency requirement. You must be a resident of Poland. This can be accomplished by submitting your passport and certificate of registration at the place of residence. Once you have proof that you are a resident of the country, you can begin the process of getting a driving licence.
After you've fulfilled the residency requirements, you'll be required to sit for a driver's test and be able to pass it. You can find driver's examination WORD centers in the majority of cities, and in some smaller towns. They are usually run by volunteers, and often offer their services for free or for a small fee.
Before you take the test, you must get your driving license from a foreign country translated into Polish by an authorized translator. You'll also need to purchase the 35mm x 45mm photos for your new license. After you've got all these items, you'll have to visit your local "Starostwo Miasta" or driver licensing office.
The office will examine your documents and determine if you're eligible to receive a Polish driving license. If you're not eligible, you'll be issued an interim driving license to use until your application has been processed. After your application is completed you can pick up your new license in person.
If you're a resident of a nation that is part of the EU or EEA your driving license will be valid in Poland. If you're from a country that doesn't belong to the agreement, or if your foreign license is approaching its expiration date, you'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Consult your country of birth or embassy for more information on what documents you will need.
Fees
The process of getting a driver's license in Poland can be a tense process. It takes several years to obtain a driving permit, especially for immigrants. There are also fees to be paid. Some of these costs include translation and other miscellaneous costs. It is crucial to be aware of these costs ahead time to allow you to plan accordingly.
If you have a driver's license from an EU country you may exchange it to a Polish one. This is because EU countries have reciprocal recognition of driving licenses. To exchange your driving license, you must be a permanent resident of the country. You must also be at least 18 years old age. If you are under 18, you must have a parent or legal guardian present during the process.
You must be at least 18 years old to obtain an Polish driving license. You'll also have to pass a theory test and a practical test. You can prepare for these tests by attending a course at a driving school. The courses typically last for 3 months and start at 1100PLN.
When you are preparing for your practical and theory exams, it's recommended to study as much as possible about the driving laws in Poland. This will allow you to understand the rules of the road and avoid infractions. Apart from that you should be acquainted with the fact that Poland drives on the right side of the road, wears seat belts as a norm, and has strict drunk-driving laws.
The last step to exchange your foreign driving license for a Polish license is to pick it from the communications department. You'll need to show your passport as well as proof that you are a resident of the country. You may also need to submit a copy your driving record from your home country which must be translated into Polish.
Keep your new license safe when you receive it. It's an important document that could be taken away when you break the law when driving.
Requirements
If you are an EU citizen, the process of obtaining a Polish driving license is relatively simple - as long as your existing licence is valid. It could be more difficult for non EU citizens who wish to exchange their international driving permit for the Polish driving license. It is good news that Poland is a signatory of various international conventions that permit it to recognize driving licenses from other countries. However it is crucial to note that you are required to change your foreign driving license after a period of 180 days in Poland if you wish to avoid issues with your insurance for your car.
To get an driver's license in Poland, you must be 18 years old and successfully pass a written and an practical test. The written test covers the laws and signs of the road and the practical test allows you to demonstrate your driving abilities. If you pass both tests, your driving license will be issued. It will contain your personal details as well as the types of vehicles you are allowed to drive.
You must possess a valid passport, ID card with a photo, proof of your safety and health, and medical evidence that proves you are qualified to drive a car. A written consent is required if not yet 18 years old.
If you are applying for the category C or D license, you'll need to pass an oral and written test that is focused on the types of vehicles and regulations. You might also be required to attend a first aid course.
Because of these requirements, the license could take up to 2 weeks to be issued once you've passed the test. In some instances, you will need to visit the office multiple times in order to complete the process and submit all the necessary documents. In this instance it is best to call ahead and inquire what the exact requirements are for your particular situation.