Poland to enforce new driver probation rules and replace indefinite licences

From 3 September 2026 Poland will introduce a mandatory probation period for new drivers who obtain a category B licence. The trial period lasts two years for drivers aged 18 and over, or up to three years for those who start at 17, with stricter penalties for violations, including a possible five‑year licence suspension for driving while a licence is already suspended.

In a separate reform, all indefinite Polish driving licences issued before 19 January 2013 will have to be exchanged for time‑limited documents. The exchange process will start on 19 January 2028 and run until 18 January 2033, affecting around 15 million licence holders. New licences will be valid for up to 15 years for categories A and B, with shorter terms for heavier‑vehicle categories.