Driving in Poland is a great way to discover its diverse landscapes, from scenic countryside roads to vibrant cities rich in culture and history. Whether you’re exploring Kraków’s historic streets or Warsaw’s modern avenues, understanding Poland’s driving laws and requirements is essential for a safe and enjoyable trip. This guide will help prepare you for your Polish road adventure with key information and tips to make your journey smooth and stress-free.

Emergency Telephone Number in Poland

Emergency telephones are linked to a nationwide SOS network and are located along major roads and motorways.

112 – You can dial 112 from anywhere in Europe and an operator will connect you to the relevant emergency service in Poland.

Operators can answer your call in Polish or English.

Polish Driving Licence Laws

Visitors must be aged 18 or over and hold a full, valid driving licence to legally drive in Poland. Driving licences issued in EU and EEA countries are accepted. International driving permits are recognised but not required unless you’re staying for more than 185 days.

What You Cannot Bring into Poland

Please be aware that you cannot bring the following items into Poland:

• Meat or products containing meat 
• Milk or dairy products 

You cannot take the following without an inspection and a ‘phytosanitary certificate’:

• Fresh fruit (apart from bananas, coconuts, dates, pineapples and durians) 
• Vegetables 
• Plants 
• Plant products 

Documents You Need to Drive in Poland

UK-registered vehicles can be temporarily imported into Poland for up to six months within any 12-month period. To comply with legal requirements, you should always carry:

• A full, valid UK driving licence 
• Proof of identification (passport) 
• Motor insurance certificate 
• V5 registration document  

If your vehicle’s number plate does not include a UK identifier, you must display a UK sticker when driving in Poland.

Compulsory Equipment for Driving in Poland

When driving in Poland, you are legally required to carry the following items in your vehicle:

• Reflective jackets: These must be worn by all passengers if you are involved in a breakdown or an accident and are exiting the vehicle on a busy road.
• Warning triangle: Mandatory for all vehicles with four or more wheels. 
• Headlamp beam deflectors: Required for driving vehicles with left-hand headlights on the right-hand side of the road.
• First-aid kit and fire extinguisher: : Strongly recommended and compulsory for vehicles registered in Poland.

Polish Rules of the Road

Seat Belt Law in Poland

Seat belts must be worn by both drivers and passengers where provided. Failure to comply can result in fines.

What side of the road do they drive on in Poland?

In Poland, motorists drive on the right-hand side of the road. Take time to familiarise yourself with this before navigating busier roads.

How to overtake in Poland

Drivers must overtake on the left. When passing a cyclist or moped, maintain a minimum distance of 1.5 metres.

Overtaking is prohibited:

• At level crossings 
• On pedestrian crossings
• Near the crest of a hill or a bend where visibility is limited

Who has priority in Poland?

In Poland, vehicles coming from the right have priority unless otherwise indicated.

• Buses: Drivers must yield when buses signal leaving a stop.
• Emergency vehicles: Drivers must give way immediately.
• Roundabouts: Vehicles already on the roundabout have priority.
• Pedestrian crossings: Drivers must yield to pedestrians. 

Using your horn in Poland

Horn use is restricted to prevent accidents and should not be used in built-up areas except in emergencies.

Traffic light system

Poland uses the international three-colour traffic light system with green, amber, and red arrows in some intersections..

What are the speed limits in Poland?

• Residential areas: 20 km/h
• Built-up areas: 50 km/h (40 km/h near schools)
• Outside built-up areas: 90 km/h on single carriageways, 100 km/h on dual carriageways
• Motorways: 140 km/h

Polish Speeding Fines

Fines vary depending on the speed and location, with on-the-spot fines issued to non-residents.

Are speed camera detectors allowed in Poland?

Navigation systems alerting drivers to speed cameras are allowed. Devices interfering with enforcement are prohibited.

Travelling with Children in Poland

Child Car Seat Rules in Poland

• Children under 150 cm must use an approved child seat or restraint.
• Children under 3 must be in a rear-facing child seat if in the front with an airbag active.

Driving Penalties and Fines in Poland

On-the-spot Fines

Police can issue on-the-spot fines for minor infringements, such as speeding or driving in a restricted area.

Minimum and Maximum Fines in Poland

Fines can range from approximately €50 to €1,200, depending on the offence.

Vehicle Confiscation

Police can confiscate vehicles if uninsured or used dangerously. Serious offences can result in tribunal-ordered seizure.

Parking in Poland

Parking Regulations

• Vehicles must be parked on the right-hand side unless otherwise marked.
• Engine should be off unless necessary.

Paid Parking

Regulated via meters and clearly marked zones. Blue zones require a parking disc when no meter is available.

Disabled Parking Access

Foreign disabled permits are recognised and spaces are marked with the internationally recognised symbol.

Toll Roads in Poland

Motorways and expressways are mostly toll-free, with some exceptions for heavier vehicles. If there is a toll road coming up you will be warned by a blue rectangular sign with the word “płatna” on it.

Alcohol Limits

Legal Limit

• Private vehicles: 0.02% BAC
• Commercial drivers: 0.00% BAC

Random Breath Test

Drivers may be tested at any time. Penalties range from fines to license suspension.

Fuel

Unleaded petrol, diesel, and LPG are widely available. Many stations operate 24/7 on major roads, but local stations may close overnight.

Hiring a Car in Poland

• Minimum Age: Usually 21+ but this depends on the rental provider. 
• Driving Licence: A full, valid UK driving licence is required.
• Licence Duration: At least 1 year. 
• Deposit Requirements: Credit cards are typically requried. 
• Travel Restrictions: Confirm if you’re able to travel outside of Poland with your rental provider.

It is recommended that you purchase rental car excess insurance so that you’re covered in case you incur accidental damage costs.

Taking the time to familiarise yourself with Polish driving rules and securing the right insurance coverage allows you to focus on enjoying the country’s beautiful landscapes, historic cities, and vibrant culture.