Poland to Phase Out Lifetime Driver's Licenses, Affecting 15 Million Motorists

Poland's Overhaul of Driver Licensing

According to ХВИЛЯ: Poland is implementing a major reform that will gradually eliminate lifetime driver's licenses issued before January 19, 2013. This move aligns with the European Union's Vision Zero strategy, which aims to reduce traffic accidents and improve road safety. As a result, approximately 15 million drivers will need to replace their documents. This change brings Poland in line with most other EU member states, which have already adopted time-limited licenses.

The License Replacement Process

The replacement of driver's licenses will occur between 2028 and 2033. Under the new requirements, updated documents will be valid for 15 years, or 10 years in certain cases. Drivers holding lifetime licenses must apply for new ones within the designated timeframe. The phased approach is designed to manage the administrative workload and ensure a smooth transition for the country's vast number of drivers.

• The fee for issuing a driver's license is scheduled to increase in the first half of 2026.
• The current cost of 100 złoty will rise to 115.5 złoty.
• These changes will impact a significant portion of the driving population, who must adapt to the new regulations.

This reform aims not only to improve road safety but also to modernize Poland's driver's license control system. Eliminating lifetime licenses will allow the state to better track and verify drivers' capabilities and promptly identify potentially dangerous road users. Given that Poland has one of the higher rates of road traffic incidents in the EU, implementing this strategy could substantially reduce future road risks by ensuring drivers' medical fitness and knowledge are regularly updated.