How do you convert a driving licence in Poland in 2026?

EU and EFTA licence holders may keep driving on a valid home-country card in Poland. Exchange becomes practical when the card expires, is lost, or you want a local document for police interactions. Mutual recognition applies while the home-country card remains valid.

Non-EU licence holders who have lived in Poland for at least 185 days can apply to exchange through the starosta or city office that handles rights to drive. Gov.pl lists the application, photo, identity or residence documents, proof of address registration, a copy of the foreign licence, and the issue fee. A sworn Polish translation is commonly required for non-EU cards. Confirm whether your origin also triggers a medical certificate or theory exam before you assume a pure paper swap.

Bring passport or residence proof, meldunek confirmation, and PESEL details when offices ask: Register your address and Get a PESEL. A plastic karta pobytu helps identity checks after a positive permit decision: Get a residence card. Data confirmation with the foreign authority can take weeks beyond the short local issue window once paperwork is complete.

You normally surrender the foreign card when collecting the Polish one. International permits alone are not exchanged for Polish photocards. City life without a car remains workable in Warsaw and Krakow on transit and bikes: Utilities, internet and transport and Cycling culture. Arrival sequence: Paperwork after moving.