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Publication date: 04.09.2024
Vitaliy Kolomiets is an experienced lawyer specializing in assisting with obtaining residence permits and residence cards in Poland. He has in-depth knowledge of Polish law and many years of experience in migration matters. He has over 5 years of experience.
Replacing a driving licence in Poland
This is a procedure that may be required in case of loss, theft, damage to the document or in case of changes in personal data. Before replacing your driving licence with a Polish one, you need to find out about the conditions of this process and prepare all the relevant documents. The procedure may take several weeks, after which you will receive a new driving licence valid in Poland and other EU countries.
Reasons for replacing a driving licence
There are various reasons for changing a driving licence in Poland. The most common ones include:
- Moving to another country. If you move to Poland from another country, you may need to replace your driving licence with a local one.
- Change of medical status. In case of changes in your medical condition that affect your ability to drive a vehicle, you may need to replace your licence. Poland is a country where this is monitored very closely, so do not hesitate.
- Change of personal data. Changing your surname, name or other personal data requires replacing your driving licence to reflect the new information.
- Damage. If the licence has become unusable due to damage, it must be replaced. This also includes the condition of their expiry date.
- Loss or theft. If your licence is lost or stolen, you must apply for a replacement to avoid illegal use of the document.
Documents required to replace a driving licence
You can replace a driving licence in Poland with the following documents:
- Application for replacement of a driving licence. It is filled in at the local communication office.
- A valid passport or other identity document.
- Old driving licence (foreign driving licence). If they are available.
- A photograph. In accordance with the requirements for official documents (35x45 mm).
- Receipt of payment of the administrative fee.
- Medical certificate (if necessary).
The procedure for replacing a driving licence in Poland
This process consists of the following main steps:
Preparation of documents.
Filling in the application form, payment of the fee.
Submission of documents.
Waiting for the issuance.
Replacement of the driving licence.
Processing time for the replacement of a driving licence
This period in Poland usually ranges from 7 to 30 working days, depending on the workload of the local communication office and the applicant's specific circumstances. Replacing a driving licence in Poland can be either faster or slower in some cases. Therefore, it is recommended to check the actual processing time of the application directly with the relevant office.
Replacement of a driving licence for foreigners
This is a process that allows holders of driving licences issued outside the EU to obtain a Polish driving licence. Replacing a driving licence in Poland is mandatory for those planning a long-term stay or permanent residence in Poland. Foreigners have to submit the following documents translated into Polish to the local communication office (Urząd Komunikacji). After submitting the application and paying the fee, the replacement process can take from several weeks to a month.
Contacting a professional lawyer to replace your driving licence can greatly simplify and speed up the process. A lawyer will ensure that all procedural requirements are met, help you collect and properly prepare all the necessary documents, including translations and medical certificates. He or she will also represent your interests in case of any problems or misunderstandings with administrative authorities during such a procedure as replacing a driving licence. Poland is a country where this is treated with special attention, and even minor mistakes can lead to delays or refusals. A professional lawyer will help you avoid these problems by ensuring that all the necessary steps are taken correctly and in a timely manner.
