If you plan to rent a car in Poland, this guide gives the practical, must know facts about licenses, International Driver’s Permit, rental requirements, insurance and the road rules that matter most.

Driving is one of the easiest ways to see Poland’s cities, coast, mountains and villages but it’s also one of the places where paperwork, local rules and tiny legal details matter. Read the short checklists and FAQs before you pick up the keys.

Who can drive in Poland with a foreign license?

• EU / EEA / Swiss licenses:

  • Valid for driving in Poland; EU standard licenses are recognised across EU countries. If you hold an EU license, you normally don’t need an International Driving Permit.

• Non-EU licenses (tourists / short stays):

  • Many non-EU visitors must carry an International Driving Permit also known as International Driving License; in addition to their valid home license especially visitors from the U.S., Canada, Australia and many Asian countries. Check your embassy guidance before travel.

• Longer stays:

  • If you move to Poland or stay more than a few months, you may need to exchange or obtain a Polish license rules vary by nationality and residency length.

Practical tips for renters 

• City driving:

  • Polish city drivers can be assertive; allow extra time for parking and narrow streets in older districts.

• Tolls:

  • Motorways often have tolls some use electronic vignettes or toll booths. Confirm payment method when renting.

• Fuel:

  • Petrol (benzyna) and diesel are widely available; most stations accept cards but carry some cash for remote roads.

• Winter driving:

  • Snow tyres or winter equipment may be mandatory in winter months; check with the rental company before driving into mountain areas.

• If you’re stopped by police:

  • Stay calm, show documents, photograph any incident and get the officer’s badge number if there’s a dispute. Inform your rental company immediately after any damage or collision.

Renting a car (License, age and payment rules)

• Minimum age:

  • Typical minimum is 21–25 depending on company and car category. Many firms require the driver to have held a valid license for at least 1 year. Extra "young driver" fees commonly apply under 25.

• Credit card and deposit:

  • Most companies require a major credit card for the security deposit, plus ID, passport and driving license.

• Additional drivers:

  • Add on drivers usually need to be present and named on the rental agreement (fees may apply).

Documents and insurance (what to carry)

• Documents to keep in the vehicle:

  • Original driving license, ID/passport, rental agreement, proof of insurance, vehicle registration (if provided), and a local emergency phone number. Polish authorities may request documents during spot checks.

• Insurance basics:

  • Third party liability is mandatory and usually included with rentals; it is valid across EU countries when issued by EU insurers. Consider Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)/super CDW and theft protection for rentals.

• Green Card:

  • For crossing non-EU borders, some insurers recommend or require a Green Card; check with your rental company and insurer if you plan to drive outside Poland.

Critical driving rules and safety points

• Side of road:

  • Drive on the right.

• Seat belts and children:

  • Seat belts are mandatory for all; child restraints required for young children.

• Speed limits (typical):

  • Builtup areas: 50 km/h.

  • Single carriageways: 90 km/h.

  • Dual carriageways: 100–120 km/h.

  • Motorways up to: 140 km/h.

• Headlights:

  • Use dipped headlights in tunnels and in poor visibility; some rural roads or highways may require daytime running lights  check local signage.

Practical tips for renters 

• City driving:

  • Polish city drivers can be assertive; allow extra time for parking and narrow streets in older districts.

• Tolls:

  • Motorways often have tolls some use electronic vignettes or toll booths. Confirm payment method when renting.

• Fuel:

  • Petrol (benzyna) and diesel are widely available; most stations accept cards but carry some cash for remote roads.

• Winter driving:

  • Snow tyres or winter equipment may be mandatory in winter months; check with the rental company before driving into mountain areas.

• If you’re stopped by police:

  • Stay calm, show documents, photograph any incident and get the officer’s badge number if there’s a dispute. Inform your rental company immediately after any damage or collision.

Quick point pre drive checklist

• 1) Passport/ID.

• Original driving license in hand.

• 2) International Driving Permit also known as International Driving License alongside your license.

• 3) Rental agreement, insurance documents and emergency number.

• 4) Credit card used for deposit; confirm amount and hold release process.

• 5) Inspect car: Photos of all panels, tyre condition and fuel level.

• 6) Understand tolls and motorway payment systems for your route.

• 7) Confirm what CDW / theft cover you have and excess amounts.

• 8) Check winter equipment if travelling in cold months.

• 9) Program local emergency numbers and the rental company hotline.

FAQ

• Can I drive with my U.S. license?

  • Yes for short visits, but bring an International Driving Permit in addition to your U.S. license.
    

• How old to rent?

  • Usually 21–25 minimum; many companies require 25 for certain categories. 

• Do I need extra insurance?

• • Third party is included; consider CDW/super CDW and travel insurance with motor coverage.
    

How to Obtain an IDP

Applying for an International Driver's Permit (IDP) is a straightforward process that allows you to legally drive in foreign countries. Here's how you can obtain one:

• Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for obtaining an International Driver's Permit. Requirements may but the most important one is that you must have your national or local driver's license issued by your county or state of origin, and it should be valid.

• Complete Application: Obtain the necessary application form from following the next link: https://internationalpermit.com/pages/apply-for-the-international-driving-permit

• Pay Fees: Pay the required fees for processing your IDP application. Fees may vary depending on the issuing authority and processing time.

• Submit Application: Submit your completed application form along with any supporting documents following their specific instructions.

• Receive IDP: Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your International Driver's Permit.

Remember to carry both your international driving permit and your original driver's license whenever you're behind the wheel. Double-check that your details match those on your valid driver's license to avoid any discrepancies. Once you have completed the application form and gathered all the necessary documents, submit them to the licensing authority along with any applicable fees.

BUY NOW!

Cost of an International Driver's Permit

The costs of obtaining an International Driver's Permit are the following:

1 YEAR VALIDITY: USD 39,99
2 YEARS VALIDITY: USD 54,99
3 YEARS VALIDITY: USD 69,99

USA SHIPPING
USPS 6-10 DAYS: FREE
EXPRESS 3-4 DAYS : USD 15
OVERNIGHT 2-3 DAYS: USD 35

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING
EXPRESS INTERNATIONAL 4-8 DAYS : USD 29.99

As of 2025

Before applying for an IDP, it's essential to check the fee schedule on the official website https://internationalpermit.com/pages/pricing-for-the-international-driving-permit

Conclusion (final advice for a smooth rental drive in Poland)

• Summary guidance:

  • Bring the right paperwork (license plus International Driving Permit), confirm rental insurance, deposits and safety rules. Having these basics in place turns a potentially stressful rental into freedom to explore Poland on your own schedule.

• Recommended next steps:

  • Before departure: Check whether you need an International Driving Permit, book a car with clear insurance terms, and download offline maps for rural routes.

• Stay safe and enjoy:

• • Poland rewards drivers who plan a little: Scenic roads (Mazury lakes, Tatra foothills, Baltic coast) are easily accessible and far more enjoyable when you’re prepared.