The Biggest Issue With Get A Driving License In Poland, And How You Can Fix It

How to Get a Driving License in Poland Many foreigners who reside in Poland have to exchange their driving license in their country for one issued by Poland. This is especially true for those who have been in Poland for more than 185 consecutive days (documented by a local address registration, a visa or a residence permit). To do that they need to pass several tests and exams. The most important are: Medical Examination The process of getting a driver's license In Poland is a challenging task, particularly for foreigners. The procedure starts with a medical examination to ensure you are physically fit to drive. You will then have to take a written test to prove your knowledge of Polish safety and road regulations. Additionally, you will need to undergo a series of driving lessons with an instructor who is certified to demonstrate that you are able to safely operate a vehicle on Polish roads. Depending on where you're from, the process may take up to 6 months or up to one year or more. If you are a citizen of the EU or a member of the Vienna Convention, then your driver's license from your country will be accepted in Poland without the need to exchange it. For citizens of countries that aren't included in the Vienna Convention and not part of the Vienna Convention, an International Driving Permit is recommended. Even if you're an a resident of one of these nations, you still have to obtain a PKK as well as take a medical test. You will also need to bring an official translation of your driver's license into Polish as well as a copy your passport and a valid visa or proof of residence. Once you've completed all steps, you will be given an appointment for your driving test at the local road traffic centre (osrodek ruchu drogowego). The theoretical test will be performed on an automated device and will consist of multiple choice questions regarding traffic laws, road signs and safety rules. The test on the practical side is conducted by a certified driver. You must demonstrate the ability to drive a vehicle including changing gears, navigating corners and parking. As of June 2017, drivers who work for ride-sharing companies such as Uber or Bolt will be required to possess a valid Polish driving license. New laws will require drivers to possess an official Polish license, or else face issues with car insurance. Drivers from outside the Eurozone must also get an Polish license within 185 days of settling in Poland or risk having their licenses exchanged. Theory Exam If you own a driver's license issued in the country that is a party to the Road Traffic Convention, you can exchange it for the Polish licence after 185 days of legally residing in the event that your residence is documented by local address registration (Zameldowanie) or residence card, visa or other document confirming your right reside. You must still pass the part that is theoretical of the national test unless you have a foreign driving license that is accompanied by an International Driving Permit. The theory exam is a multi-part test consisting of a written part and a practice one. Even the Polish struggle with it and many fail in their first or second attempts even though they have studied hard. Numerous companies offer assistance to help you prepare for the test. Beware of scams – they will take your money but never offer any help in preparation. To schedule your theory exam you must visit the nearest WORD (Wojewodzki Osrodek Ruchu Drogowego). At the time of registration, you will need a passport and your driver profile for candidates (PKK). The fee for the theoretical part of the exam is 30 PLN. After passing the theory test, you need to sign up with your district authority (osdzie). (drogowy), for a practical test. The process usually takes about a week, especially in large cities. At this time you will require an PKK, a passport and a document that confirms your right to reside in Poland (Zameldowanie or Residence Card). Once the practical exam is passed, you can get your driving licence in a few days. To obtain your licence, you'll have to present the same documents you did for the registration of your PKK along with a valid certificate from the driving school. Driving in Poland is very enjoyable however, it's also a responsibilities. If you wish to drive safely, you must obey all the rules of the road – including wearing seat belts, observing speed limits, and obeying traffic lights. You could be penalized by the police if do not. It is essential to be aware of the Polish driving rules and etiquette. Practical Exam Before you can sit for the practical exam, you have to enroll in an driving school and pass several practical classes. You can find a driving school in your area by searching online or asking your friends for recommendations. The course is inexpensive and lasts for a few weeks. In the course you will learn to drive a car and be assessed on the theory of driving. The state exam which is the final step to obtain the Polish license, is conducted at the Province Road Traffic Centers (Wojewodzki Osrodki Ruchu Drogowego). The exam is split into two parts: theory, and practice. The theory portion is available in many languages, making it easier for non-Polish-speaking candidates to prepare. In the practice portion of the state examination you must demonstrate your ability to drive by demonstrating your abilities and knowledge. You will also be required to take a course in first aid and an eye test. Depending on the type of license you're pursuing, you may have to take additional oral or written examinations. You must submit your birth certificate along with evidence of identity when you apply for an Polish driving license. If you are less than 18 years old, you must submit the written consent of your legal guardian or parent. If you are a foreign citizen, you must provide an image of your visa or residence card as well as the document that confirms your legal stay in Poland for example, the certificate of studies or visa stamp. You can apply for your Polish driving license at the local Voivodeship Office after you have met all the requirements and passed the examinations. Make sure you bring your international driving permit if you have one, along with all of the documents mentioned above. Once you've submitted all the required documents, your driving permit will be issued in two weeks. The driving license is valid for 15 years for drivers who are younger than 70 and for three years for drivers older than 70. A driving license will make it easier for you to explore Poland and all it offers. Registration Like most countries in Europe the rules of the road in Poland are generally straightforward. Seatbelts are compulsory and alcohol consumption is strictly forbidden and speed limits are enforced. However, specific requirements for foreign drivers have to be considered. For example, foreigners who wish to get their driving licenses in Poland must first pass a medical test and undergo practical training. It is not an easy process, especially for those with a limited Polish proficiency. There are click for source , like driving classes provided by language schools or private tutors. These courses provide individual instruction to prepare students for the licensing exam. In killer deal there are numerous online resources that can assist students to comprehend Polish road signs and driving manners. A foreigner should have all the required documents before applying for a driver's license. This includes the completed application form (which can be downloaded but must be filled out by hand in Polish and Polish, so Google Translate is your best option) A medical certificate that states that the applicant is healthy enough to drive, and one current photograph that meets dimensions and format requirements. In addition, if the applicant intends to pursue a license under categories C or D, they must also be able to pass an oral and written test that is focused on the types of vehicles and safety regulations. Finally, a first aid course must be attended to learn how to react to road accidents. If you're a holder of an international driving permit or foreign driving license, there's good news: they can continue to use it in Poland for 185 days from their date of legal residence. However, starting in June this will change: drivers working for ridesharing firms such as Uber or Bolt are now required by law to exchange their license from abroad to a Polish one. The new law was enacted to enhance safety of passengers and to prevent people from being transported by vehicles driven by drivers who do not meet the required requirements. It has been criticized already by ridesharing companies and politicians who believe that it will lead to longer waiting times for drivers as well as more expensive prices.