Everything You Need to Know About Getting a Polish Driving License
If you’re planning to live, work, or study in Poland, having a valid Polish driving license (Polski prawo jazdy) will make everyday life a lot smoother. Whether you already hold a license from another EU country or you’re starting from scratch, the process is straightforward—provided you know the steps, the paperwork, and the rules. This guide walks you through everything you need, in a clear, second‑person format, and includes handy tables, checklists, and a FAQ section to answer the most common questions.
1. What Types of Licences Exist in Poland?
Poland follows the European Union (EU) classification system. Below is a quick reference table that shows the main categories you may encounter.
| Category | Vehicle(s) Covered | Minimum Age* | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Motorcycles (any engine size) | 24 (or 20 with A2) | Two‑wheelers, scooters |
| B | Cars ≤ 3 500 kg, ≤ 8 passengers | 18 | Passenger cars, light vans |
| C | Trucks > 3 500 kg | 21 | Heavy goods vehicles |
| D | Buses, coaches | 24 | Public transport, large passenger vehicles |
| E | Trailer combinations (B+E, C+E, D+E) | Same as base category | Vehicles pulling trailers > 750 kg |
*Age limits can be reduced with a progressive licence (e.g., you can obtain A2 at 18 and then upgrade to A after two years).
2. When Do You Need a Polish Licence?
| Situation | Do you need to exchange or obtain a new licence? |
|---|---|
| EU/EEA licence holder | Exchange for a Polish licence (no test required). |
| Non‑EU licence holder | Must pass theory + practical exams; exchange possible after 6 months of residence if the home country has a bilateral agreement. |
| New driver (no licence) | Enroll in a driving school, pass theory, then practical test. |
| Temporary stay (< 6 months) | You may drive with your foreign licence as long as it is valid and accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP). |
3. Step‑by‑Step Checklist: Getting Your Polish Driving Licence
Below is a practical list you can print out and tick off as you go.
- Confirm Eligibility
- Minimum age met?
- Medical fitness (see medical certificate below).
- Gather Required Documents
- Valid ID (passport or Polish ID card).
- Proof of residence (e.g., rental contract, utility bill).
- Recent passport‑size photo (35 × 45 mm, white background).
- Medical certificate (issued by an authorized Polish physician).
- Existing foreign licence (if you have one).
- Enroll in a Driving School (if you’re a first‑time driver)
- Choose a licensed school.
- Complete at least 30 hours of theory and 20 hours of practical lessons (minimum).
- Pass the Theory Test
- 32 multiple‑choice questions, 68 % passing score.
- Available in Polish, English, and several other languages.
- Pass the Practical Test
- 45‑minute road test with an examiner.
- Includes basic manoeuvres, traffic situations, and emergency stops.
- Submit Your Application
- Visit your local Wydział Komunikacji (Road Transport Office).
- Pay the licence fee (see table below).
- Collect Your Licence
- Usually issued on the same day; a temporary paper licence may be given if processing takes longer.
4. Fees & Processing Times (2025)
| Service | Fee (PLN) | Approx. Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Theory test (first attempt) | 30 | Immediate (same day) |
| Practical test (first attempt) | 150 | Same day (subject to examiner availability) |
| Licence issuance (category B) | 80 | 1‑3 business days |
| Licence exchange (EU licence) | 60 | 1‑2 business days |
| Medical certificate | 50‑120 (depends on clinic) | Same day |
| Duplicate licence (lost/ stolen) | 100 | 3‑5 business days |
All fees are payable in cash or by card at the office. Prices are subject to change; always verify on the official website of the Polish Ministry of Infrastructure before you go.
5. Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
| Pitfall | Why It Happens | How to Prevent It |
|---|---|---|
| Missing medical certificate | People assume a simple health declaration is enough. | Book your medical exam before your theory test; keep the certificate in a folder. |
| Insufficient theory prep | The test includes many road‑sign variations. | Use the official Prawo Jazdy app or online mock exams; aim for at least 90 % correct answers in practice. |
| Choosing a non‑licensed driving school | Some “budget” schools cut corners. | Verify the school’s license number on the Polish Road Transport Authority website. |
| Not bringing a photo | Offices refuse to process applications without the exact photo size. | Print two photos in advance; keep a spare in your wallet. |
| Forgetting to bring ID proof | Many applicants rely on a foreign passport that isn’t recognized for residence proof. | Bring a temporary residence card or a PESEL number confirmation. |
6. Quick Reference List: Documents You Must Have
- Valid passport or Polish ID card
- Proof of Polish residency (rental agreement, utility bill, or registration certificate)
- PESEL number (Polish national identification number)
- Medical certificate (valid for 6 months)
- Two passport‑size photos (35 × 45 mm)
- Existing foreign licence (if you’re swapping)
- Receipt of licence fee payment (if paid online)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: I have a UK licence. Do I need to take any tests?
A: Yes. Since the UK is no longer part of the EU, you must exchange your licence within 6 months of establishing residence in Poland. You will need to pass the theory test (practical test is optional if your licence is still valid).
Q2: Can I drive in Poland with an EU licence while waiting for the exchange?
A: Absolutely. You may use your EU licence for up to 6 months after moving to Poland. After that period, you must obtain a Polish licence.
Q3: How long is a Polish driving licence valid?
A: For most categories (A, B, C, D) the licence is valid for 10 years. After that, you must renew it, which generally involves a simple health check and a fee.
Q4: I’m 17 and want to drive a car. Is it possible?
A: You can obtain a Category B licence at 18. However, at 17 you may apply for a Category B1 (light quadricycles up to 550 kg) if you have a learner’s permit and are supervised by a licensed driver.
Q5: What if I lose my licence while abroad?
A: Contact the nearest Polish consulate. They can issue a temporary replacement licence that will be valid for up to 90 days, after which you must apply for a new permanent licence at a local Wydział Komunikacji.
Q6: Are there any discounts for students or seniors?
A: No official discounts exist, but some driving schools offer reduced rates for students. Seniors (65+) only need to undergo a medical examination more frequently (every 5 years).
Q7: I have a disability. Can I get a special licence?
A: Yes. Poland issues restricted licences for drivers with physical limitations (e.g., hand‑controlled vehicles). You’ll need a specialist medical certificate and may have to pass an adapted practical test.
Final Thoughts
Getting a Polish driving licence is a manageable process once you have the right checklist, understand the costs, and know which tests apply to you. Keep this guide handy, double‑check all documents, and schedule your theory and practical exams early—especially during peak periods (summer holidays and early autumn).
With a valid licence in your pocket, you’ll be free to explore Poland’s historic cities, scenic countryside, and vibrant road trips without a hitch. Safe driving!