Obtaining a driver's license in Poland

Having a driver’s license in Poland provides numerous advantages, making daily life easier and opening up opportunities. This guide explains the process of obtaining a driver’s license in Poland for the first time, how to exchange a foreign license, and obtaining an International Driving License.

Exchanging a Foreign Driver’s License in Poland

According to Polish law, foreigners must exchange their existing driving licenses for a Polish one after staying in Poland for more than 185 days (six months). Here’s the step-by-step procedure:

Required Documents:

• Application form for driver’s license exchange
• Passport-sized photographs (35х45 mm)
• Foreign passport, residence permit, and their photocopies
• Proof of address in Poland (registration)
• Original and photocopy of the existing driver’s license
• Notarized Polish translation of the original license
• Proof of payment (receipt)

Cost:

• Replacement fee: 100.50 zł
• Authorization fee (if applied by a trusted person): 17 zł (no fee for immediate family members)

Procedure:

1. Submit your documents in person or by mail to the local district authority.
2. Pay the fee via bank transfer or at the authority’s cash office.
3. The authority verifies your original license with the issuing country.
4. Receive your new Polish driver’s license (typically within 9 days).

Your original driver’s license is surrendered upon receiving the new one.

Getting Your First Driver’s License in Poland

Obtaining a new driver’s license in Poland involves several steps and considerable costs (approximately 600 USD). Here is a detailed breakdown of the process:

Eligibility:

• Minimum age: 18 years (16 years for category B1)

Step 1: Obtain a Driver Candidate Profile (PKK)

• Register at the local Civil Affairs Department
• Obtain your electronic driver candidate profile (Profil Kandydata na Kierowcę – PKK)

Step 2: Medical Examination

• Medical check-up by a licensed doctor, usually conducted at driving schools or local clinics (Gabinet Medycyny Pracy)
• The exam checks general health, vision, and basic motor skills
• Cost: 200 zł (standard fee throughout Poland)

Step 3: Documentation for PKK Registration

• Medical certificate
• Proof of residence permit in Poland (temporary or permanent)
• Passport or ID
• Passport-sized photograph
• PKK profile registration fee (paid on-site)

Step 4: Select a Driving School

• Choose a suitable driving school based on location, schedule, and fees
• Training includes:
  • 30 hours of theory (approx. 1000-1500 zł)
  • First aid training (4 hours)
  • Practical driving lessons (minimum 30 hours)

Theory Course:

• Attend scheduled theory lessons (regular or intensive courses)
• Receive study materials and online testing access
• Complete internal exams at the driving school (necessary for certification)

Practical Training:

• Minimum 30 hours of practical driving
• Practice in real traffic conditions
• Complete an internal practical examination at your driving school

Step 5: Official Examinations (WORD)

Theory Exam:

• Conducted electronically at the Voivodeship Road Traffic Centre (WORD)
• Cost: 30 zł
• Passing score: minimum 68 out of 74 points
• Valid for 6 months

Practical Exam:

• Cost: 140 zł
• Assessed areas:
  • Vehicle preparation (checking oil, fluids, lights, mirrors)
  • Maneuvering on training grounds (start/stop, obstacle avoidance, parking)
  • City driving (traffic rules, safety, examiner’s instructions)
• Passing rate on first attempt: approximately 15%

Step 6: Driver’s License Issuance

After passing both exams:

• Return to your local district authority
• Pay the license issuance fee: 100 zł
• Provide exam results, passport, and residence permit
• Receive your driver’s license within a few days

WORD examinations

Step 5: Official Examinations (WORD)

Theory Exam:

• Conducted electronically at the Voivodeship Road Traffic Centre (WORD)
• Cost: 30 zł
• Passing score: minimum 68 out of 74 points
• Valid for 6 months

Practical Exam:

• Cost: 140 zł
• Assessed areas:
  • Vehicle preparation (checking oil, fluids, lights, mirrors)
  • Maneuvering on training grounds (start/stop, obstacle avoidance, parking)
  • City driving (traffic rules, safety, examiner’s instructions)
• Passing rate on first attempt: approximately 15%

Registration of driver’s license

Step 6: Driver’s License Issuance

After passing both exams:

• Return to your local district authority
• Pay the license issuance fee: 100 zł
• Provide exam results, passport, and residence permit
• Receive your driver’s license within a few days

Obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Don’t forget that obtaining an International Driving License in Poland gives you the opportunity of owning an international one. You can issue it directly on our website, without any problems and long waiting.

• Polish driver’s license holders can easily apply for an IDP
• Facilitates driving in numerous countries worldwide
• Requires basic documentation and fee payment at relevant authorities or automobile associations

Important Tips:

• Always keep copies of important documents
• Regularly verify current regulations and fees
• Be patient and well-prepared to ensure success in both theory and practical examinations

Obtaining a driver’s license in Poland is a thorough process that demands patience and investment, but the freedom and benefits it provides are invaluable.