Driving in Poland (ambrozinio (123RF))
The 2025-2026 Stars and Stripes “European Road Guide” includes country-specific driving laws, vehicle purchase information and other essential details for drivers while stationed in Europe.
Here is a quick guide to driving in Poland, whether for vacation or while stationed in the country.
ROAD SIGNS
Here are a few Polish words you may see on road signs in Poland.
“Pobór” – Toll
“Zoll” – Customs
“W dni powszednie w godz ___” – (No stopping / parking) on weekdays at ___
“Droga wewnętrzna” – Private road
“mgła” – Fog
“Sypki żwir” – Loose gravel
“śnieg” – Snow
“natężenie ruchu” – Congestion
“objazd” – Detour
“wypadki” – Accident or accident risk
“kręta droga” – Winding road
PAYING FINES
Most traffic fines are paid to the police in person and with cash, or possibly bank transfer. Carry cash with you and be sure to ask for a receipt. If you do not have cash, the case will go to court and the fine will need to be paid within three days of the court hearing. Speeding violations between 10 and 30 kph over posted limits range from PLN 57 to PLN 342.
RESCUE LANE
On highways, if there is a “korytarz ratunkowy” (traffic jam) the left-most lane should drive further onto the shoulder while the lane beside it stays further right. This creates a rescue lane for emergency vehicles.
OTHER INFORMATION
Do not use your horn unless necessary during the day and never at night; penalties are high for excessive use of horns.
Watch for cyclist, scooter and motorcycle traffic, especially in urban areas.
Trams and busses have right of way in intersections and sometimes run alongside passenger cars.