Check What’s on Your Front Windshield — It Could Cost 300 zł

9 April 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

Police can fine drivers up to 300 zł for objects on the front windshield. Learn why this matters and what expats should do.

Police in Poland increasingly ticket drivers for objects on the front windshield. Consequently, many discover a 300 zł fine only during a roadside stop.

Table of Contents

Why the front windshield matters

Officers look beyond speed and papers. Moreover, they inspect the driver’s view. Therefore, even a small smartphone mount can draw attention. In addition, dashcams, GPS units, and stickers often sit in the same forbidden zone. However, drivers get used to such items. Consequently, they forget these items can block a slice of the road. Moreover, that slice can hide a pedestrian or a cyclist at a junction. Therefore, visibility matters in critical moments like turns and lane changes.

What police can do during a stop

During a check, the officer evaluates safety. Moreover, the officer can issue a fine if the device limits the view. Therefore, fines can reach 300 zł. In addition, the officer may temporarily take the dowód rejestracyjny (vehicle registration certificate). However, authorities use that option mainly if the car clearly fails safety checks. Consequently, drivers sometimes face administrative follow-ups beyond the fine.

Everyday items that cause trouble

Many believe a suction phone holder is harmless. However, such a holder can sit directly in the driver’s field of vision. Moreover, even a small sticker on the glass can obscure a traffic sign. In addition, some dashcams attach low on the glass and block a driver’s view. Therefore, simple relocation solves most problems. Move mounts to the dashboard rim. Consequently, you reduce the risk of a ticket. Moreover, removable sticks and small stickers go best outside the main sightline.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: As an expat, know that Polish police enforce rules about the windscreen. In practice, a minor object can lead to a mandat (fine) of up to 300 zł or a temporary withdrawal of the dowód rejestracyjny (vehicle registration certificate). Therefore, check your car before an inspection. Moreover, keep your documents ready: driving licence, insurance (OC), and vehicle registration. In addition, understand local terms: ZUS and NFZ refer to social and health systems, while PESEL is the national ID number. However, you do not need a PESEL to drive, but you do need valid vehicle papers.

Practical tips help avoid trouble. Move mounts lower on the dash. Moreover, use non-permanent adhesives for temporary gadgets. Therefore, clean the glass of stickers near the A-pillars. In addition, ask a local mechanic or service for compliant mounting spots. However, if police stop you, stay calm. Present documents quickly and explain politely. Consequently, officers usually resolve minor issues with a warning or a fine.

For many expats, this rule seems surprising. Moreover, they treat gadgets as universal car gear. However, Polish officers focus on safety above convenience. Therefore, a small change now can save money and time later. In addition, reviewing your car from an officer’s point of view is the best precaution.

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