Do I have to exchange my foreign driving licence for a Polish one?

Short answer:

If you have lived in Poland for at least 185 days and hold a driving licence from a country outside the EU/EEA, you must exchange it for a Polish licence. Licences issued by EU, EEA and Swiss authorities remain valid as long as they are in date.

When does the 185 days start?

Official sources describe it as time of residence in Poland; some sources count it from the date you obtained a residence status. If you leave Poland before the period ends, counting may restart on return. Check with your local office how they count it in your case.

How do I exchange the licence?

  1. Apply at the county office (starostwo) or city office for your place of residence.
  2. Bring the application form, a recent photo, ID or passport/residence card, your original driving licence and a medical certificate if required.
  3. For licences from some non-EU countries a theory exam may be required.
  4. Processing usually takes about 9 working days but verification of foreign data can take longer.

Fee: check the current amount at your office or on gov.pl – fees changed recently.

Can I drive while the exchange is pending?

Do not assume you may keep driving on a foreign licence after the 185 days. Ask the office about your situation before the period ends and check whether an international driving permit or translation is required.

See also

How can a foreigner get a PESEL number in Poland?

How to get a PESEL number as a foreigner in Poland: free of charge, automatic after registering your address for over 30 days, or by application at the commune office.

Otwórz →

How do I apply for a residence permit and residence card in Poland?

Residence permit in Poland: apply to the voivode through the MOS system; official fees are 340 zł (temporary stay) or 440 zł (single permit), plus 100 zł for the card.

Otwórz →

How does health insurance (NFZ) work for foreigners in Poland?

Health insurance in Poland for foreigners: employees and contractors are covered through ZUS contributions; others can buy voluntary NFZ insurance (835.04 zł/month in Q2 2026).

Otwórz →

How do I register my address (meldunek) in Poland as a foreigner?

Register your address in Poland within 30 days of arrival for stays over 3 months (temporary) or permanently – free, online on gov.pl or at the commune office.

Otwórz →

Najczęstsze pytania

After how many days must I exchange my licence?

After 185 days of residence in Poland for non-EU licences.

Is a licence from Germany or Ukraine treated the same?

No. German (EU) licences stay valid. A Ukrainian licence is a non-EU licence, so exchange is required after the period. Check details with the office.

Where do I exchange it?

At the county or city office (wydział komunikacji).

Do I need a medical certificate?

Only if the office requires it in your case.

Do I need to take the exam again?

For some non-EU countries a theory exam may be needed; many exchanges need no exam.

Źródła

Last updated: 2026-11-04.