A driving licence is simply a paper without which it becomes impossible to travel on the road. Although most people have a lifelong license, there are certain rules on its validity in Poland, especially for older drivers. What are the provisions for the mandatory exchange of a driving licence after 65? What should be done to keep the right to drive after exceeding this age? Let's look at the details.
Validity of driving licence – what do you request to know?
There are 2 types of driving licences in Poland: time and unlimited. By 2013, most drivers received an unlimited driving licence, which meant that this paper did not require an exchange or renewal throughout their lives. After the introduction of fresh regulations in 2013, all issued driving licences have a certain expiry date – usually for 15 years. This applies to both younger and older drivers.
However, people over 65 must pay peculiar attention to the date of validity of their driving licence. Mandatory medical examinations and the request to exchange papers become an crucial aspect for this age group.
Mandatory exchange of driving licences after 65 years of age
According to the regulations, persons aged 65 may be required to undergo periodic medical examinations if they want to extend the validity of their driving licence. It is up to the doctor to decide how long the paper will be extended and the tests may include:
- visual examination – the assessment of imagination is crucial as age-related changes can affect road safety,
- health examination – the doctor can measure the general wellness of the driver, including motor functions, reactions or possible chronic diseases.
A doctor’s decision to extend a driving licence may concern a period of 1 year to respective years, depending on the condition of the driver. In the event of a negative test result, the driver may be required to surrender his driving licence.
How is the exchange of driving licences going?
If a individual over 65 years of age holds a driving licence which is invalid, he must take the following steps:
- Medical examinations – go to a doctor who is entitled to examine drivers. The cost of specified a test is about PLN 200-250 and its results decide to extend the validity of the driving licence.
- Application for the exchange of driving licences – After obtaining a affirmative test result, it is essential to submit a request for the exchange of a paper in the communication department appropriate to the check-in place. The application shall be accompanied by:
- medical certificate,
- current photo,
- identity card,
- charge for the issue of a fresh driving licence (about PLN 100).
- Waiting for a fresh driving licence – the issue of a fresh paper usually takes up to 30 days. During this time, the driver may usage a temporary certificate which allows driving.
What are the chances of driving with a expired license?
A driver who moves in a vehicle with an invalid driving licence shall be subject to serious legal consequences. Police may impose a fine of up to PLN 500 and in utmost cases the case may go to court. In addition, driving without a valid driving licence can have serious consequences in the event of a road collision – the insurer may refuse to pay compensation, which will exposure the driver to additional costs.
Does everyone gotta exchange a driver's license?
If the licence was issued before 2013 and is unlimited, there is no work to exchange it. However, drivers after 65 years of age who want to proceed driving must undergo regular medical examinations. These provisions aim to increase road safety and guarantee that older people are able to decision safely.
Mandatory replacement of a driving licence after 65 years of age in Poland is simply a substance that concerns many drivers. Regular medical examinations and compliance are key to safe and legal driving. This allows older drivers to enjoy mobility while besides ensuring their and another road users' safety.
Continued here:
When does your licence expire? Mandatory exchange for persons over 65 years in Poland
