Drivers fined after photos through car windows
Postal inspectors photograph car dashboards and can trigger the car radio fee Poland. Learn who pays and how to avoid fines.
The postal operator walks parking lots and photographs dashboards through car windows. The practice links directly to the car radio fee Poland and can lead to a 285 PLN fine.
Consequently, this short article explains why inspectors act now and what expats should check. Read on to avoid surprise bills.
How the car radio fee Poland works
The rule stems from the 1992 Broadcasting Act. Moreover, the law lets inspectors document a receiver by photographing it with the vehicle plate. Therefore, a visible radio plus plate gives sufficient evidence. The Post carries out checks as the designated operator. In addition, the National Broadcasting Council sets rates yearly.
Who pays and how much
Not everyone must pay. If you pay the household TV or radio fee for your home, you do not owe extra for a car. However, private individuals who do not pay any household fee must register and pay for a car radio. Also, companies pay per vehicle. Consequently, a corporate fleet with 20 cars owes 20 times the fee. From January 1, 2026, radio fees rose. The monthly charge for a car radio equals 9.50 PLN. The annual rate equals 114 PLN. The penalty for unregistered receivers equals roughly 285 PLN. Furthermore, the tax office can demand up to five years of unpaid fees. Thus, arrears plus penalties can rise fast. The office may enforce payment directly from a bank account.
Evidence, sales and leased cars
Inspectors do not need your consent or presence. They photograph parked cars. Moreover, they match plates to registration records. Therefore, they can send a demand to the registered owner. If you sold a car but did not deregister the receiver at the Post, you still face charges. The courts confirmed this rule in administrative rulings. If a car belongs to a leasing company, the lessor carries the fee. Meanwhile, the user of a leased car usually does not pay.
Practical steps for expats
First, check whether you already pay a home TV or radio fee. If yes, you likely avoid the car charge. Second, verify ownership records if you sold a vehicle. Third, review any company car subscriptions for fleet vehicles. In addition, log into the Poczta Polska panel to see registered receivers. You can also call Poczta Polska at 43 842 40 40. Consequently, companies with fleets should audit payments now.
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