How to Exchange Your Driver’s License in Poland: Step-by-Step Guide for Foreigners (2025)

If you’re living in Poland and planning to drive, you’ll likely need to exchange your foreign driver’s license for a Polish one. Poland allows foreigners to drive temporarily with a valid national license, but if you’re staying long-term, exchanging it becomes mandatory. In this guide, we explain who needs to exchange their license, what documents are required, how long it takes, and where to apply.

Who Needs to Exchange a Foreign Driver’s License in Poland?

If you’re a non-EU resident and have been living in Poland for more than 185 days per year, you are legally required to exchange your driver’s license for a Polish one.

✅ You can exchange your license without exams if:

• Your license was issued by a country that is a party to the Vienna or Geneva Road Traffic Convention

• You legally reside in Poland (residence permit, long-stay visa, temporary protection, etc.)

Countries eligible for direct exchange (no exam):

• Ukraine

• Belarus

• Russia

• Georgia

• Kazakhstan

• Armenia

• Moldova

• All EU/EEA countries and Switzerland

You must take theory and practical exams if:

• Your license was issued by a country not party to international traffic conventions (e.g., China, India, Syria)

When Should You Exchange Your License?

• You can drive in Poland using your national license for up to 185 days

• After this period, you are legally required to exchange it for a Polish one

• Driving beyond this limit with a foreign license may result in fines up to 1,500 PLN

Required Documents for License Exchange in Poland

To apply for the license exchange, you need the following documents:

Required list:

1. Original foreign driver’s license

2. Official Polish translation of the license (by a sworn translator – tłumacz przysięgły)

3. Application form for license exchange

4. One passport-sized photo (35×45 mm)

5. Proof of legal stay in Poland (residence card, visa, passport)

6. Proof of residence (Meldunek, rental agreement, or utility bill)

Optional:

• Medical certificate – may be required if your license is expired or has health conditions

Where to Apply for the License Exchange

You must apply in person at the Wydział Komunikacji (Transport Department) in your local City Hall (Urząd Miasta)or Municipal Office (Urząd Gminy) based on your place of residence.

Online Appointment:

• Via ePUAP platform — requires a Trusted Profile (Profil Zaufany)

• Some cities (e.g., Warsaw, Kraków) offer online booking via their official websites

 How Much Does It Cost?

💡 Payment is made via bank transfer or directly at the city office (Urząd).

 Processing Time

• The standard processing time ranges from 2 to 8 weeks

• The Transport Department will verify your license with the issuing authority (via embassy or official channels)

• Temporary licenses are generally not issued, so you may need to pause driving until you receive the Polish one

 Common Mistakes and Issues

• 📝 Incorrect or incomplete translation

• ❌ No confirmed address of residence

• 📅 Expired or mismatched license

• 💳 Wrong payment or missing confirmation

• 🔍 Inconsistent data (name, DOB, etc.) across documents

If your application is denied:

• Fix the errors and reapply

• If the refusal is unreasonable, you may appeal to the Samorządowe Kolegium Odwoławcze (Administrative Appeals Board)

 Useful Resources

• ePUAP – Electronic Platform of Public Services

• Vienna Road Convention Signatories – UN ECE

• Warsaw City Hall – Driver’s License Info

• Check application status in Warsaw

 FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long can I drive in Poland with a foreign license?

Up to 185 days per calendar year. After that, a Polish license is mandatory.

2. Do I need to take driving exams in Poland?

Only if your license was issued in a country not covered by international road conventions. Otherwise — no exams are required.

3. How much does the exchange process cost?

Between 180 and 300 PLN, including translation and government fees.

4. Where do I exchange my license?

At the local transport department (Wydział Komunikacji) in your city or municipal office.

5. Can I drive while waiting for the Polish license?

No, if more than 185 days have passed. You’re required to wait for the official Polish license.

6. What if my license is expired?

You may be asked to provide a medical certificate, or in some cases, retake exams.

7. Can I apply without a meldunek (residence registration)?

Yes, but you’ll need another valid proof of residence, like a rental agreement or utility bill.