Ukrainian driver's licenses will become invalid in Poland from October 1: what to do

From October 1, 2025, Ukrainian driver's licenses will be invalid for Ukrainian citizens residing in Poland for more than 180 days. Drivers who do not exchange their documents for Polish ones face fines of up to 2000 zlotys (about 22,800 UAH). This change is related to the expiration of a decree that allowed Ukrainian refugees to use their national driver's licenses without mandatory replacement.

From October 1, for nearly a million Ukrainians, Ukrainian licenses will become just an unnecessary piece of plastic

According to the new rules, Ukrainians residing in Poland for more than 180 days must have a Polish driver's license. Ignoring this requirement is equated with driving a vehicle without a license. Violating such rules could result in a fine of up to 2000 zlotys (about 22,800 UAH).

How to legalize your right to drive a car?

1. Exchange of Ukrainian license for a Polish one

This option is available for drivers whose Ukrainian licenses are valid and comply with the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. The procedure does not require retaking exams.

• Original Ukrainian driver's license.

• Translation of the document performed by a sworn translator.

• Document confirming legal stay in Poland (for example, PESEL UKR or Residency Card).

• Medical certificate from a Polish doctor.

• Receipt for administrative fee payment (about 100 zlotys).

2. Retraining and taking exams

If the exchange is impossible, Ukrainians will have to undergo a full training course at a Polish driving school and pass theoretical and practical exams at the Voivodeship Center of Road Traffic (WORD). The cost of such training ranges from 2500 to 3500 zlotys (30,000 – 42,000 UAH).

Consequences of ignoring new requirements

Driving with an invalid license may lead to problems with insurance companies in case of an accident or even vehicle confiscation. It is also important to keep in mind the mandatory presence of the 'Green Card' insurance policy for traveling in Poland and other EU countries.

Ukrainians residing in Poland for more than 180 days must have a Polish driver's license from October 1, 2025. It is necessary to meet several conditions to exchange the national license for a Polish one or to undergo training at a driving school and exams to legalize the right to drive a car in Poland.