The new regulations introduce the loss of driving license for speeding, including outside built-up areas.
Exceeding the speed limit by more than 50 km/h will result in a three-month license revocation, but not in every situation. To lose your license, according to the new regulations, a driver must commit this offense in a built-up area or on a two-way single-carriageway road outside a built-up area. Simply put, on a road with only two lanes, one in each direction. This means that a driving ban does not apply to drivers who commit this offense, for example, on a motorway or expressway. The Ministry of Infrastructure cites road safety and general road safety as the reason for introducing the regulations increasing penalties, especially since new regulations regarding the possibility of obtaining a driving license at the age of 17 are also in effect from March 3, 2026.
New regulations for young drivers are in effect from March 3, 2026 – driving courses from the age of 17 are included in road traffic regulations.
The amendment stipulates that a category B driving license will be available from the age of 17. Driving lessons will be available three months before the age of 17.
The Road Traffic Law stipulates that after obtaining a category B driving license, a person must drive in the presence of a guardian who meets the following requirements:
- must be at least 25 years old,
- have held a driving license for at least five years,
- have not been banned from driving for the last five years,
- be completely sober.
These rules apply for six months or until the age of 18.
In addition to the possibility of obtaining a driving license at the age of 17, the Road Traffic Law will also provide for a probationary period.
In this case, the new law will not take effect until September 3, 2026. The provisions regarding the probationary period provide for a two-year probationary period during which:
- a young driver will not be allowed to exceed the blood alcohol content (BAC) limit of 0.0‰;
- two offenses will result in an extension of the probationary period by another two years;
- immediate suspension of the driver’s license for exceeding 20 penalty points instead of the standard 24;
- a mandatory reeducation course at a Driving Improvement Center after exceeding 12 penalty points.
The new law also provides for the loss of the driver’s license for illegal racing and dangerous driving.
The new law, which came into effect on March 3, provides for the loss of the driver’s license for participating in an illegal race, for drifting (intentionally causing the vehicle to skid), and for lifting even one of the vehicle’s wheels off the road, for riding a motorcycle on one wheel. The changes stem from the need to improve the safety of other drivers. Drivers who commit these offenses will be fined 1,500 PLN and have their driving license suspended for three months, similar to those for exceeding the speed limit by 50 km/h.
Summary – what do the new regulations bring? What about penalty points?
The changes that have come into effect stem from the need to improve road safety. Once you receive your license, it will be much easier to lose it. If you don’t want your license suspended immediately and you absolutely must have a category B license, it’s best to familiarize yourself with these changes. Penalties for drivers will now be much harsher, and there will certainly be more retakes.
FAQ:
Can I take my driving test before I turn 18?
The amendment stipulates that a category B driving license will be available from the age of 17. Driving lessons can be started three months before turning 17
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.