The traffic regulations in Poland are similar to those in most European countries, but there are some special features that foreign drivers should be aware of in order to drive safely on Polish roads. This article answers the most frequently asked questions by drivers before driving in Poland, based on the Polish Road Traffic Act of 20 June 1997, which has been updated several times since it came into force.
Requirements for driving in Poland
To drive in Poland, you must have a valid ID and driving licence, vehicle documents (including the registration certificate) and proof of civil liability insurance. Before driving abroad, it is recommended that you obtain a green card from your car insurance company. Vehicles insured in countries participating in the green card system do not need to present any additional insurance documents (almost all European countries are included). The minimum driving age is 18 and seat belts are compulsory for all passengers.
General traffic rules
In Poland, vehicles drive on the right, as in most European countries. Pedestrians must walk on the left side of the road if there is no pavement, a rule that also applies in car parks, squares and inside buildings. Drivers must give way to pedestrians at pedestrian crossings; the only exception to this rule is for trams: pedestrians do not have priority when a tram is approaching a pedestrian crossing. The use of a mobile phone while driving without a hands-free system is prohibited, so that the driver can concentrate their attention on the road.
Speed limits
Speed limits in Poland vary depending on the type of road and vehicle. For motorcycles and cars with a maximum weight of 3.5 tonnes, the limits are as follows:
- Urban areas: 50 km/h (from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.) and 60 km/h (from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m.).
- Roads outside built-up areas: 90 km/h.
- Single carriageway expressways: 100 km/h.
- Dual carriageway expressways and motorways: 120 km/h.
- Motorways: 140 km/h.
For heavier vehicles, such as trucks over 3.5 tonnes, stricter speed limits apply, and on public holidays, traffic restrictions may be imposed on vehicles over 12 tonnes. These rules are designed to ensure road safety and reduce congestion during busy periods.
Mandatory use of lights
In Poland, it is mandatory to drive with headlights on at all times of the year, regardless of weather conditions. During the day, in normal visibility conditions, the use of daytime running lights (including LEDs) is permitted. On roads that are not lit at night, drivers may use their high beams, provided they do not dazzle other road users. In tunnels or in poor visibility, daytime running lights are not sufficient and dipped headlights must be used. It is very important to keep this rule in mind, especially for drivers from countries where the use of dipped headlights is not mandatory at all times (Spain, France or Italy, among others).
Child restraint systems
Children under 150 cm tall must travel in an approved restraint system, such as a child seat or booster seat, except in vehicles such as taxis or buses, where this rule does not apply.
If a child is between 135 and 150 cm tall but cannot use a suitable seat due to their weight, they may travel in the back seat with a seat belt. If a child is transported facing backwards in the front seat, the airbag must be deactivated to ensure their safety. This regulation is very similar to that of other European countries, but it is recommended to be very strict in its application and to find out about specific requirements in advance.
Alcohol and drug limits
Poland has strict regulations on drinking and driving. The maximum blood alcohol level is 0.2 g/l, one of the lowest in Europe. No one under the influence of alcohol is allowed to travel in the front seat, and any trace of drugs in the blood is strictly prohibited. The penalties for exceeding these limits are severe, including fines, confiscation of driving licences and, in the most serious cases, imprisonment. The aim of these regulations is to minimise the risks associated with driving under the influence of substances.
Compulsory vehicle equipment
Vehicles travelling in Poland must be equipped with certain safety features. It is mandatory to have a fire extinguisher and a warning triangle, which must be accessible in the event of a breakdown or accident. In addition, the vehicle must comply with technical inspection regulations and be covered by compulsory insurance. Rental vehicles usually include fire insurance, third-party liability insurance, damage insurance and theft insurance, but it is recommended that you check the specific conditions when booking.
Parking rules in Poland
In Poland, vehicles must park on the right-hand side of the road; although there are a few exceptions, it is important to keep this general rule in mind. Vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes may park on the pavement, provided that a minimum space of 1.5 metres is left for pedestrians. Parking is prohibited on bridges, viaducts, in tunnels, within 10 metres of intersections, pedestrian crossings or tram crossings, or within 15 metres of bus or tram stops.
In cities, many parking areas are paid, regulated by parking meters or mobile apps. Drivers should therefore check rates and times. Mobile apps are usually available in a second language in addition to Polish, but this is not always the case.
Tolls and vignettes
Some motorways and roads in Poland are subject to tolls, which can be paid at toll booths in cash or by credit card. For vehicles over 3.5 tonnes, the use of a toll device with the eToll system is mandatory. In addition, some roads require electronic vignettes. These vignettes must be correctly registered and linked to the vehicle to avoid penalties. Drivers travelling to other European countries with a vehicle rented in Poland must obtain a green card to ensure insurance coverage outside the country.
Road signs
Road signs in Poland comply with international standards, making them easy to understand for drivers from other countries. The most common signs include the one-way sign (square or rectangular with a white background and a black arrow), the pedestrian crossing sign (yellow diamond with a pedestrian crossing symbol) and traffic lights, which regulate vehicle and pedestrian traffic with the colours red (stop), orange (prepare to stop) and green (go). These signs are essential for ensuring safe and efficient traffic on Polish roads.
Penalties for traffic offences
Traffic offences in Poland are punishable by penalties that vary depending on their severity. For example, fines for speeding can range from 100 to several hundred Polish zlotys for minor offences, while exceeding the alcohol limit or driving without insurance can result in more severe penalties, such as immobilisation of the vehicle or confiscation of the driving licence. In the case of foreign drivers, the Polish authorities may immobilise the vehicle until the traffic fines have been paid in full.
Differences between Poland and other European countries
Although traffic rules in Poland are similar to those in other EU countries, there are some differences that are important to know. For example, the maximum blood alcohol limit of 0.2 g/l is stricter than in Spain, where it is 0.5 g/l for non-novice drivers. The requirement to drive with headlights on all year round is not a rule that applies in all European countries, such as Spain or France, where it is only mandatory when visibility is reduced. Regulations on the use of toll stickers also vary, with countries such as Austria and Switzerland requiring stickers for all roads, while in Poland they only apply on certain motorways. Parking rules on pavements are more relaxed in Poland than in countries such as Germany.
Tips for foreign drivers
Foreign drivers visiting Poland should familiarise themselves with local regulations to avoid penalties and ensure a safe journey. It is recommended to check the validity of your driving licence, ensure that your vehicle complies with the requirements and take out adequate insurance, especially if the journey involves driving in other countries. In addition, knowing the road signs and paid parking areas in cities can make driving easier. Poland has a modern network of motorways and expressways, ideal for exploring its cities and rural landscapes, provided that the rules of the road are observed.
Traffic rules in Poland are designed to ensure road safety and facilitate mobility, with clear regulations on speed limits, the use of lights, child restraint systems and parking. Although they are similar to those in other European countries, local peculiarities require special attention. By following these rules, drivers can enjoy a safe and smooth journey on Polish roads.