International Driving License In Poland
Are you considering driving in Poland? If so, one of the essential preparations you should make is to familiarize yourself with getting an International Driving License (IDL) in this country.
A valid IDL will allow drivers from countries outside the European Union and EEA to legally drive on Polish roads and access public transportation.
This blog post will explain all the basics about getting an International Driving License in Poland, including what documents are needed for application, where to apply, and more. So if you’re ready to start planning your travels through this wonderful country by car or bus, read on!
Why do you need an IDL when in Poland
An International Driving License (IDL) is a document that acts as a valid permit for drivers from foreign countries outside of the European Union and EEA to drive legally on Polish roads. It also grants access to public transportation. If you plan a trip to Poland, getting an IDL is recommended for your safety.
Important Documents Needed for International Driving License Application in Poland
You will need to bring the following documents with you when applying for an easy process valid in Poland:
A valid driver’s license from your home country
You must first have a valid driver’s license from your home country to obtain an International Driving License. This license must be current and not expired in any way. Your license must be issued in the same language as the one used to write the IDL application form.
Proof of identity
You will also need to provide proof of your identity. This can be done with a valid passport, national ID card, or other valid identification form. Make sure that the name on the documents matches the information provided on your driver’s license.
Proof of address
In addition, you must provide proof of your current address in Poland. This can be done with a utility bill, lease agreement, or any other official document showing the same address as the one on your driver’s license and ID card.
Two passport-size photographs
You will also need two passport-size photographs taken within the last six months. The photos must be of the same person and be taken in front of a white background.
Proof of vehicle insurance
You will need to provide proof that your car is insured in Poland. This can be done with an official certificate issued by a Polish insurance provider or any other proof accepted by the local authorities.
Health Insurance
Lastly, you must provide proof that you have medical insurance in Poland. This can be done with a health insurance card issued by a Polish provider or any other valid proof accepted by the local authorities.
Criminal Record
You will also need proof that you have no criminal record in Poland. This can be done with a police report or any other legal document issued by the Polish authorities.
Once you have gathered all these documents, you can apply for your International Driving License in Poland. This can be done at any local Polish authorizing authorities office.
How to Apply for an International Driving License In Poland
Applying for an International Driving License (IDL) in Poland is relatively straightforward. Here are the steps you’ll need to take to obtain an IDL in Poland:
Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility
To be eligible for an International Driving License in Poland, you must have a valid domestic driver’s license issued by your home country. You also need to prove that you are either a citizen of the European Union (EU) or EEA countries or a legal resident of one of those countries.
If you do not meet these criteria, you must apply for a Temporary Resident Permit from the foreign affairs authorities before applying for an International Driving License.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
You must gather and submit several documents to apply for an IDL. Ensure these all are valid and up to date.
Step 3: Complete Application Forms
You can complete the application forms once you have all the necessary documents. These forms are available online and must be filled out in Polish. If you don’t speak Polish, it is recommended that you use an interpreter to help with this step.
Step 4: Submit Documents and Pay Fees
Once your application forms are complete, gather all the required documents and submit them to the Issuing authority. You will also need to pay a fee for processing your application.
Step 5: Get Your International Driving License
Once your application has been approved and all the necessary fees have been paid, you will receive an International Driving License in the mail. This license will be valid for up to 3 years from the issue date.
Following these steps, you can easily obtain an International Driving License in Poland and begin exploring this beautiful country without worry. Check with local authorities before driving in any foreign country to ensure you know all applicable laws and regulations.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Applying for an International Driving License in Poland
If you plan to begin traveling in Poland, getting an International Driving License is necessary. However, people need to correct certain common mistakes when applying for the IDL. To ensure that your application goes smoothly and without delay, it’s important to be aware of and avoid these potential errors.
Incorrectly Completing Application Form
One of the most common mistakes when applying for an International Driving License in Poland is incorrectly completing or submitting the application form.
Make sure to review all instructions carefully before submitting your application and double-check all details that have been provided. This will help prevent unnecessary delays and ensure your application is processed quickly and efficiently.
Not Submitting All Necessary Documentation
You must submit all required documentation to be approved for an International Driving License in Poland. Failing to provide these documents can delay the processing of your application or even rejection.
Not Paying the Required Fees
Several fees are associated with applying for an International Driving License in Poland. These include the actual cost of the license and any taxes and fees associated with its acquisition. You must pay one of these fees to ensure your application is accepted and completed due to complete payment.
By avoiding these common errors when applying for an International Driving License in Poland, you can ensure that your application process goes smoothly and without delay.
Benefits of Having an International Driving License
Peace of Mind
Having an International Driving License in Poland gives you peace of mind knowing that you can legally drive on Polish roads and access public transportation. With the IDL, you won’t have to worry about getting into legal trouble when you set out on your travels.
Easier to Rent a Vehicle
For those who want or need a rental car while traveling, having an International Driving License makes it much easier to do so. Many car rental companies require customers outside the EU and EEA countries to possess an IDL for insurance purposes before renting cars.
More Convenient Travel Experiences
Those with an International Driving License can enjoy a more convenient and stress-free travel experience. With the IDL, you can access public transportation such as buses and taxis without worrying about language barriers or lack of understanding. You also won’t have to worry about being unable to rent a car if needed.
Increased Safety
Having an International Driving License in Poland offers increased safety due to its acceptance by all police forces nationwide. Those with an IDL can access medical assistance in case of a breakdown or accident and be given assistance should they get lost or need help.
What Is the Exchange Of a Driving License for a Polish License
Exchanging your driving license for a Polish license means exchanging the valid driver’s license you already possess from your home country with one issued by the Polish authorities. This process is not always easy and time-consuming, but obtaining a valid driving license in Poland is possible.
The driving license must be exchanged within a validity period of six months of residence in Poland. Otherwise, you must take a written and practical test to receive a new driver’s license.
Documents Required To Exchange Driving License For a Polish One
- Your original driving license (NOT International Driving Permit)
- A certified translation of your license into Polish
- Proof of your legal stay in Poland (must be valid for 6+ months)
- 2x driving license-sized photos (35mm x 45mm)
- The completed application form. It must be completed by hand in Polish.
- Administrative fee payment.
How to Exchange Your Driving License for a Polish License
If your driving license comes from a country with which Poland has a bilateral agreement or from the European Union, that’s it! You’re done! Your documents will be processed on the spot, and you’ll have your new Polish driving license in about two weeks.
But if you are not fortunate to have a driving license from one of these countries, you will instead be given a Profil Kandydata na Kierowcę (Driving Candidate Profile). After completing this step, you must pass a written test on the Rules of the Road in Poland.
Once you’ve passed the test, you must return to the office with confirmation of your passing marks. Finally, once the authorizing authority has received confirmation of your clean driving record from your home country, you will receive your Polish license within a few weeks!
Driving Rules in Poland and Tips To Drive Safely
- Traffic moves on the right side of the road.
- Driving licenses are valid for 15 years.
- All passengers in the car must wear seat belts when drive vehicles abroad in Poland.
- Children under 150cm need a special seat.
- Headlights must be used all year and during the day (low beam or daytime running light).
- Alcohol laws limit blood alcohol content to 0.02%.
- Cars must have a fire extinguisher and a hazard-warning reflective triangle.
- Forbidden to use hand-held mobile phones while driving.
- Always have a driving license and insurance papers when driving in Poland.
- Urban/built-up areas: 50 km/h from 5 AM to 11 PM and 60km/h from 11 PM to 5 AM, on single carriageways 90 km/h, on dual carriageways or single carriageway expressways, 100 km/h on dual carriageway expressways 120 km/h and on motorways 140 km/h.
- Use of snow chains is restricted only to roads with snow and ice cover.
Tips:
- Always obey the speed limits
- Be aware of sudden changes in road conditions
- Pay attention to road signs
- Look out for pedestrians and give space to the police car and ambulance.
- Use headlights when driving through tunnels.
- Respect the right of way of other drivers; Be patient with cyclists, motorcyclists, and other motor vehicles that are slower than you; Be aware that GPS navigation may only sometimes be accurate in Poland.
- Keep a safe distance between your car and the one in front.
FAQs
Do you have to follow the same rules as a citizen of the European Union in Poland?
No, you must obtain an International Driving License from a country outside the European Union or EEA to legally drive on Polish roads and access public transportation.
What is the risk of not having a valid driving license?
If you are found to be driving without a valid International driver’s license in major cities, you may incur fines, have your car confiscated, and possibly receive a jail sentence.
Do I need a Polish driving license in Poland?
You do not need a Polish driving license to drive in Poland. You must have a valid International Driving License or foreign driving license issued from your home country.
Conclusion
Obtaining an international driving license is relatively easy and can be done online in only a few steps. Moreover, holding the license benefits foreign nationals visiting Poland and ensures they are well-prepared when driving around the country. At the same time, it is important to familiarize oneself with Polish laws and rules of the roads to drive safely and responsibly on local roads. Lastly, suppose you have a valid driver’s license from your home country but decide to stay in Poland for an extended period. In that case, you can exchange it for a Polish license without complications.