From Sept 3: New Probation Rules for Drivers

27 August 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

Poland introduces a probationary period for new drivers from Sept 3, 2026. Learn 0.0 alcohol, points rules, training and expat implications.

Poland introduces a probationary period for new drivers starting 3 September 2026. The new rule changes how fresh licence holders face alcohol limits and penalty points.

Table of Contents

What the probationary period for new drivers means

The government changed the Road Traffic Act on 17 October 2025. Consequently, authorities will apply the new Article 91 from 3 September 2026. New category B drivers face a two year probationary period. Moreover, drivers who gained a licence before age 18 will serve three years. Therefore, the countdown starts on the licence issue date or on granting the electronic temporary licence.

Key rules: alcohol, points and extra training

First, authorities impose a strict 0.0 alcohol limit for the whole probation. In addition, the law bans driving under the influence of substances similar to alcohol. Consequently, even trace amounts the morning after can cause breaches. Second, drivers accumulate penalty points as usual. However, if a probationary driver exceeds 12 points, the state forces a practical hazard training. Moreover, they must complete the course at a Driving Technique Improvement Centre within 12 months. If a court decision comes late, the deadline shortens to three months after final judgement.

Extension and serious offences

Two serious offences during the probation can extend it by two years. For example, causing a danger, drunk driving, extreme speeding, or dangerous overtaking qualify. Therefore, a driver can face a four year probation in total. In addition, the law allows authorities to add a two year probation later. Consequently, lengthy court cases can trigger extra restrictions even after the original period ends.

What does not change

The law does not reintroduce the old system fully. For instance, authorities will not require a green sticker on vehicles. Moreover, lawmakers removed mandatory mid-probation courses for every new driver. Therefore, most fresh drivers will not face extra courses unless they hit 12 points.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: If you are an expat, check when you actually obtain your Polish licence. If you receive a Polish category B licence for the first time, the probation rules apply. If you exchanged an EU or third-country licence, the rules may differ. Also, install mObywatel to see alerts. Remember Polish terms: mandat (fine), PESEL (national ID number), ZUS (social insurance), NFZ (National Health Fund).

Practical effects appear fast in big cities. For example, Warsaw exam centres show waits up to 30 days for practical tests. Consequently, many candidates might pass after the new rules begin. Moreover, the state set the public exam fees in Mazovia at 56.98 PLN for theory and 229.99 PLN for practical parts. Therefore, candidates should plan test dates carefully.

Finally, data drove this policy. Young drivers aged 18-24 caused 2,941 crashes in 2025. Moreover, this group showed the highest crash rate per 10,000 people. Consequently, lawmakers aim to reduce deaths and injuries with stricter early-career rules.

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