Can I make an exchange of a foreign driving licence? It depends.
If your foreign driving license is from one of the European Union countries, you just keep driving using it, it’s totally acceptable and valid in Poland.
If the foreign driving licence you have is from the outside of the European Union, you need to check if this country’s driver’s license is compliant with the Geneva Convention or with the Vienna Convention. When you have permanent or temporary residence in Poland for a longer time than 6 months, you must exchange a driving license in the nearest city office.
If your driving licence is not compliant with the Geneva or the Vienna Conventions, you will have to pass the theory driving license test, which can be taken in English, German or Ukrainian.
Exchange of a foreign driving license for driving legally in Poland.
If you already hold a driving licence issued abroad, you may need to swap it for a polish document to legally drive in the country. The process of obtaining a polish driving license depends on where your original document was issued, as not all foreign driving licenses are recognized automatically across different license categories. In many cases, driving licences issued in non-EU countries require a translation of the foreign document before applying for a new driving document or a polish equivalent. Once approved, you can easily exchange your driving license for a fully recognized version, including a C license or B category, ensuring you meet all legal requirements for driving on Polish roads.
I don’t have a driving licence – how to get a Polish driving licence?
The path to obtain a Polish driving licence may seem complicated but a good driving school like Vroom will help you with everything.
First you need to apply for a PKK number (Driver Candidate Profile). To do this, you will need to schedule a health check with a doctor first. Then, you must present proof of residence in Poznań at the City Hall – for example, an employment contract or a lease agreement.
Once you have your PKK number, you can learn the theory using an online platform designed specifically for students. After studying and feeling ready, you can schedule your exam and take it.
After passing the theoretical exam, you need to take a driving course at the school of your choice. It includes 30 hours of learning how to drive in a road traffic. Once you feel ready for a driving test, you take it and if you pass it, you get the driving licence in Poland, just like any other Polish citizen. You will then have a valid driving licence accepted in most countries around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I take the driving test before turning 18?
The new amendment states that a Category B driving license can be obtained from the age of 17. You will be able to start your driving lessons 3 months before your 17th birthday.
Will I lose my driving license outside built-up areas?
To lose my driving license, according to the new regulations, the driver must commit this offense in a built-up area or on a two-way single carriageway outside a built-up area.