The Costs of Getting a Driving License in Poland
A driver's license in Poland is a crucial step towards exploring the country's stunning landscapes, historic cities, and charming villages. But, prior to planning your road journey, you need to know the costs that come with obtaining a license in Poland.
The procedure includes paying an application fee and taking a medical examination. There are also costs involved when you sign up for driving schools and taking the state exams (practical and the theory).
1. Medical examination
You'll be required to undergo an examination orzeczenie Lkarskie (in Polish) during the process of obtaining a license. The exam is conducted by a doctor of occupational medicine who will test your hearing, vision motor skills, as well as your mental state. It is crucial to inform the doctor if you have any medical conditions that could affect your driving ability. The cost of this examination ranges between 100 and 200 PLN, depending on the clinic you select. On the website of the Ministry of Health, you will find a physician who provides these services.
A driver's license in Poland is composed of two parts: theory and practice. Both are governed by the regulations of the provincial road traffic center. The theoretical test can be taken at any language in Poland by a new driver, regardless of where they live. For the practical portion they need to first enroll in a driving course.
There are a variety of driving schools in Poland, and a few offer courses in other languages, like English, Ukrainian, or Russian. The driving course is for 2-3 months and costs around PLN 1000 (depending on the city). Once you pass the course, you will be required to enrol for the state test at the same location where you completed your training course.
If you're a citizen of a European Union member state, you are able to use your driving license in Poland without having to exchange it for one that is a Polish one. If, however, you are from a state outside the EU that is not a signatory to the international road traffic conventions then you'll need to change your license to one that is a Polish one after passing the theory examination in Poland.
To accomplish this you must submit the following documents:
2. Theory test
In order to obtain an driving license in Poland you must pass both a theoretical test and a practical test. The costs for these tests differ according to the size of the vehicle category you want to operate. The categories are A for motorcycles B for cars, C for large trucks and trucks.
The charge for the theoretical course is usually affordable, and can range from 500 PLN to 2,500 pounds. However, road-based training and practical lessons are more expensive than what you would expect. You'll need money in this case to cover the costs of these lessons and exam fees.
If you already hold an active license issued by an EU country or a nation that has accepted the 1968 Vienna Convention, you will not need to take a theory test or pass the test. You will still need to register to get a Polish driving licence. You can sign up at your local provincial road traffic centre (osrodek ruchu drogowego).
In most instances, you will be asked to bring these documents:
The completed application form. This form can be downloaded online but you will need to fill it out in Polish. It is important to know that the language requirements to get an Polish driver's license are high. Therefore, it is recommended to always have a translator.
Proof of your identity This can take the form of an ID card, passport or any other document that reveals information about your name and birth date. If you are a non-resident you'll also require an entry visa or a residence permit, the written permission of your legal guardian or parent for those who are under 18 years older, and a certification from a driving academy confirming you've passed both test of theory and practice.
You might be asked to present a medical certificate as well. This is usually the case if you're an international. However, if you hold an international driving permit and are staying in Poland longer than the time it is valid for, you won't be required to have a medical examination.
3. Practical test
If you're planning to drive in Poland (especially if your visa or residence permit does not require a Polish driving license) You should be aware that taking bribes to pass the test isn't an option. The process is strictly controlled and monitored and even a minor attempt to bribe an instructor could be a cause for being arrested. If you're not a resident of Poland you'll have to pass a test of theory and a practical class before obtaining the driver's license in Poland.
Theoretical test
It is a test written on traffic rules such as road signs and safety regulations. This exam is available in several languages and is required for foreigners to obtain their Polish driving license.
Practical lessons:
After you have passed the theory test, you'll need to enroll in driving classes in a driving school close to your home. This will require a specific amount of lessons with an instructor, that will be based on your previous experience and the category of license you're seeking.
State driving test:
State exams are conducted in Province Road Traffic Centers, which are referred to as WORD in Polish. Both the theory and examination's practice portion are scheduled at the same times and you must be present for both. Drivers who don't speak Polish can have a sworn translator accompany them during the theory portion of the driving test for state drivers.
In order to pass the state-issued driving test, you'll need a completed driver's profile (PKK - profil kandydata na kierowce) and an authentic passport and evidence of your Polish residence, as well as a medical certificate. Once you've filled out all of these information, you'll need to submit the documents to the office - this can be your starost's office (starostwo powiatowe), city or town hall or district authority in Warsaw (urzad dzielnicy). The final step is to buy an International Driving Permit if necessary to allow you to drive in Poland. It can be a long and difficult process, but if you meet all the requirements, it's possible to obtain an official Polish driving license from a foreign country. Read This method can be expensive and is dependent on the country. It is best to start early.
4. Practical lessons
The theory exam is one of the most difficult steps to getting a driver's license in Poland. It covers everything from road signs to safety rules and traffic rules. It's available in several languages, so even if you don't speak Polish it is possible to take the test. After you pass the exam, you will need to join a driving school and take a specific number practical lessons with an instructor. These lessons will help you prepare for the state exam and will allow you to practice driving. You'll learn about Polish car maintenance, including how to check the oil level as well as antifreeze levels and lights. adjust your seat and mirrors.
The cost of driving lessons is contingent on the class of driver. It's about 100 Z. for a course of Cat. B license. Some schools offer a package which includes both the theory and practical tests at a lower cost.
Before you can take the state driving exam, you'll need to bring certain documents. If you're not yet 18 years old, you'll need to have a written consent from your parent or legal guardian. If you're a foreigner, you will need a valid visa or a document that proves that you are legally in Poland. Also, you'll need an official certificate from the doctor stating that there are no contraindications to driving. The driving school will provide this certificate at an amount.
After you've completed the training and successfully passed the state examination and passed the state examination, you will be issued the Driving Candidates Profile. This profile will allow you to legally drive in Poland for two years. You'll need to renew your license following this. To get this done, you'll need to provide a document showing your legal residency in Poland along with an official medical certificate. If you own a vehicle you'll need an official registration certificate for your vehicle and proof of insurance. If you don't, you'll need to purchase an insurance policy through an insurer that is private. It will cost you around 350 PLN per year.