Driver’s license – new regulations

Do you work as a cab driver or bus driver?
From June 17, you must have a Polish driver’s license!

New regulations for drivers in passenger transport and taxi services

From June 17 in Poland, regulations will come into effect that require drivers providing passenger transport or taxi services to exchange their foreign driver’s licenses for Polish ones. This change aims to increase safety and standardize standards in the transportation industry.

Driver’s license exchanges – who is affected by the changes?

The new regulations are directed at drivers who are not Polish citizens and who work as drivers in the provision of passenger transport or taxi services in Poland. This applies to both employees of transport companies and self-employed individuals. So, if you work for Uber, Bolt, or FreeNow, iTaxi, get ready for changes!

Requirements and procedure for exchanging a driver’s license

A foreigner wanting to exchange their driver’s license for a Polish one, with valid qualifications, must meet the condition of residing in the territory of the Republic of Poland for at least 185 days in each calendar year, due to personal or professional ties or have a certificate of studying for at least 6 months a year. Additionally, if the driver’s license that the foreigner wants to exchange does not originate from a country that is a party to the Vienna or Geneva Conventions, and is not a member of the European Union, the Swiss Confederation, or the European Free Trade Agreement, the exchange is only made after passing a state theoretical exam concerning traffic regulations in Poland.

To comply with the new requirements, drivers will need to submit an application for the exchange of the driver’s license at the appropriate communication office. The necessary documents include:

• a completed application for the exchange of the driver’s license,
• the current driver’s license along with a sworn translation,
• medical examination,
• certificate of no criminal record,
• proof of legal residence in Poland,
• confirmation of a residence address (registration).

From practice, we know that different communication offices have slightly different requirements for the documents submitted. Remember, the exchange process can take several months. This is because the office conducting the procedure must confirm your driver’s license in the country of its issuance. So do not delay!

Driver’s license exchange – the purpose of introducing new regulations

The main purpose of the new regulations is to raise the level of safety in passenger transport. Exchanging a driver’s license for a document issued in Poland will allow for better verification of driver qualifications and facilitate the enforcement of local traffic regulations.

Consequences of non-compliance with the regulations

Drivers who do not comply with the new obligation may face legal sanctions, including financial penalties and imprisonment. Additionally, they will lose the ability to legally provide transportation services.

Exchange of a driver’s license for a Polish one – summary

The new regulations are an important step towards ensuring greater safety and professionalism in the transportation industry in Poland. Drivers providing passenger transport or taxi services should familiarize themselves with the driver’s license exchange procedure as soon as possible to ensure the continuity of their professional activity and avoid potential legal consequences.

If you want to start the process of replacing your driver’s license, contact us. As part of a free consultation, we will tell you whether you can start exchanging your document now and whether you need to take a state theoretical exam. Take advantage of the free consultation. Foreigner – Service Centre for Foreigners.