Poland Traffic Guide

The Road Traffic in Poland

Poland boasts an extensive network of railways and bus services for both short and long distances. However, if you wish to explore the country's diverse landscapes flexibly and at your own pace, traveling by car is the best option. Thanks to Poland's well-developed road network, most destinations are easily and comfortably accessible by car.

In the following article, you will learn what you, as a tourist, need to know about driving in Poland, the traffic rules that apply, and how feasible it is to travel around the country in an electric car.

Overview of Traffic Rules in Poland

• Driving is permitted from the age of 18 in Poland. As Poland is a member of the European Union, an EU driver's license is sufficient to operate a vehicle.
• Vehicles must drive on the right side of the road. Consequently, the right-before-left rule applies, overtaking is done on the left, and roundabouts are navigated counterclockwise.
• Speed limits in Poland are as follows: 50 km/h within city limits, 90 km/h outside city limits, 100 km/h on dual carriageways, and 120 km/h on motorways with four or more lanes. The maximum speed limit on motorways is 140 km/h.
• Headlights must be turned on at all times, regardless of the time of day or year.
• Seat belts must be worn by all passengers while the vehicle is in motion. Mobile phones may only be used with a hands-free device.
• Every vehicle must be equipped with a warning triangle, first aid kit, and reflective vests. Vehicles registered in Poland (including rental cars) must also carry a fire extinguisher.
• The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.2‰. Penalties for exceeding this limit are significantly severe, and driving with a blood alcohol content of 0.5‰ or higher is considered a criminal offense.

Driving in Poland

The Roads in Poland

Poland has a well-developed road network. Therefore, you can travel easily by car both within cities and between cities.

Petrol stations and charging points

Gasoline and Diesel: The network of gas stations in Poland is very well developed. In rural areas, gas stations are usually open during normal business hours on weekdays and weekends. In cities or along main roads, there are also gas stations that are open 24/7. Drivers of gasoline and diesel vehicles can also enjoy slightly lower prices.

Rental car or own car?

Poland is easily accessible by car from anywhere in Europe due to its central location on the European continent. Proof of liability insurance is necessary for entry with a car. For those entering from the EU with their own vehicle, this proof is generally provided by the EU vehicle registration plate. However, to ensure coverage in case of an insurance-relevant accident, it is advisable to also carry the International Insurance Card.

For those who do not own a car or prefer not to drive their own vehicle to Poland, renting a car is a great option. Rental agencies are especially plentiful in larger cities and near international airports.

To rent a car in Poland, you must be at least 18 years old. Depending on the rental company, the minimum age requirement may be higher. Additionally, a surcharge may apply for drivers under 25.

When renting a car or driving another person's vehicle, you will need an authorization to use it in Poland—even if the car's owner is in the vehicle with you. Make sure the rental agency provides you with a usage permission document.

Fines

Traffic offenses in Poland are subject to particularly stringent penalties. For example, exceeding the speed limit by more than 50 km/h results in an immediate revocation of the driver's license. Foreign drivers in this situation are issued a certificate that allows them to drive a vehicle for the next 72 hours.

Driving under the influence of alcohol also carries severe penalties. A blood alcohol content of 0.2 or higher can lead to a driving ban as well as the revocation of both the driver's license and the vehicle. Driving with a blood alcohol content over 0.5 is considered a criminal offense and may result in imprisonment.