Driving Tips in Poland
Car Hire Depot information in Poland
DriveAway Holidays offers competitive rates and a wide range of choices with reputable suppliers in Poland. Our Suppliers are located throughout major cities of Poland.
Car Hire Driving Distances in Poland
- Krakow to Warsaw – 295 kms (4hrs/ 25mins)
- Krakow to Katowice – 80 kms (1 hr)
- Warsaw to Bydgoszcz – 270 kms (4 hrs)
Driving Licence
A full valid driver’s license is required for a minimum of 1 year. An International licence is required for Australian drivers licence holders.
Age Restrictions
Generally the minimum age is 23 years, but can vary between the car hire company and location. Maximum age limits apply in some locations, a young/senior driver surcharge may apply. Please check Terms and Conditions when making an enquiry or booking.
Rules and Regulations
General driving rules and regulations in Poland;
- Vehicles drive on the right hand side of the road.
- Overtake on the left hand side of the road.
- Dipped headlights are to be used at all times.
- Driving while using a mobile is prohibited, with the exception of a hands free system.
- Radar detectors are strictly banned.
- Seat belts are to be used by all passengers and driver.
- Drivers are to carry at all times while driving, a valid drivers licence, registration documents and insurance documents.
Equipment
The following equipment are required to be carried in the vehicle and which are to be used in the event of an incident, accident or breakdown.
- Warning Triangle; to be used at the event of an accident or breakdown to warn following traffic.
- Fire Extinguisher
- First-Aid Kit
Child Safety Seats
It is required that a child under the age of 4 years old be seated in an appropriate child seat. Children under 1.5m in height are to be seated in a booster seat.
Speed Limits
Roads in Poland aren't in the best condition, so it is important that speed limits are followed. If stopped by police for any traffic violation, any fines received on the spot must be paid immediately. Below the speed limits in Poland, unless signed otherwise;
- Residential Areas: 20-40 km/h
- Urban Areas (built up areas): 50-60 km/h
- Rural Roads (outside towns): 90-110 km/h
- Motorways: 130 km/h
Drink Driving
It is illegal to drive a vehicle on Polish roads and be under the influence of alcohol that exceeds a blood alcohol content (BAC) limit of 0.2mg/100ml. Police have the authority to stop motorists and carry out random alcohol test, if found over the limit you'll need to pay an on the spot fine.
Tolls
Tolls currently exist on the following motorways;
- Autostrada A1
- Autostrada A2
- Autostrada A4
Tolls can be paid by most major credit cards, cash, fleet cards, or discount cards.
Road Signs
Road signs in Poland follow the same order like other countries in Europe. Signs will commonly be displayed in the countries local language with English shown below, however for easy understanding symbols are used mostly. Unlike most other European countries, Poland warning signs uses a yellow background with black text/symbol in the middle and red border instead of black on white. Prohibitory Signs are generally found in a circle shape either a black on white with a red border or white on blue. Mandatory signs will have a blue background with white text or symbol. Information Signs come in a blue or green background with white text or/and a symbol.
Parking
Street parking within Polish cities is mostly paid parking and timed regulated. Be sure to check signage along the street for parking restrictions. Garage parking is also available in major cities for extended parking, but can tend to be more expensive than street parking.
Visa Information
Visa, passport and entry requirements for Australians visiting Poland;
- Australian passport holders do not require a visa for non-work related stays up to 90 days within a 6-months period from the first date of entry. Contact the Consulate of the Republic of Poland in your local state for additional information regarding any special visa's.
- A valid passport is required.

*Please note distances and time should only be used as a guide, and may vary according to the route taken.
Last Updated 3 June 2010