Exchanging a foreign driving license for a Polish one

If you already hold a driving licence from another country, you may be able to exchange it for a Polish one without taking the full course and exam. This guide explains who qualifies, who doesn't, what documents you'll need and what to do if exchange isn't possible for your licence.

Who can exchange directly (no exam required)

Holders of an EU/EEA driving licence can use it in Poland indefinitely and exchange it for a Polish equivalent on request.

Licences issued by countries that signed the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic of 1968 can usually be exchanged without an exam (most Western countries plus many others). The full list of accepted countries is maintained by the Polish Ministry of Infrastructure.

Who needs to take an additional theory exam

Holders of licences from countries that signed only the older Geneva Convention of 1949 (not Vienna) typically need to pass the Polish theory exam at WORD before the exchange is granted. The practical exam is usually waived.

This commonly applies to several countries in Asia and the Middle East — check the current Ministry list before assuming.

Who cannot exchange and needs the full course

Holders of licences from countries that are not party to either convention need to do the full Polish course (theory + 30 hours practical) and pass both WORD exams.

This is the route most expats from outside the recognised lists end up taking. If this is you, see our

How to get a Polish driving license as a foreigner — 2026 guide for the full process.

Documents you'll need

Your original foreign driving licence, plus a sworn (przysięgły) translation into Polish — done by a certified translator in Poland.

Your residence document (karta pobytu, UKR confirmation, EU residence or a registered long-stay visa).

A passport-size colour photo (35×45 mm).

An application form (available at the Wydział Komunikacji office).

Proof of payment of the administrative fee.

Where to apply

Submit the application at the Wydział Komunikacji of your city or district of residence. In Warsaw that's the relevant Urząd Dzielnicy depending on where you live.

Some districts allow online booking of an appointment slot. Same-day walk-in is sometimes possible but expect a wait.

How long does it take

Once you submit complete documents, the new Polish licence is typically issued within 30 days. You'll surrender your original foreign licence at the time of issue.

If exchange isn't an option for you

You're not blocked from driving — you just need to do the course. Warsaw Driving School handles the full process in English: PKK help, theory class, 30 hours practical, exam preparation. Reach out for a quote tailored to whether you already have driving experience or you're starting from scratch.