It is quite convenient to come to Poland by your own transportation and since Poland’s acceptance into the European Union, lines at border crossings have dropped significantly as the time it takes to enter the country is minimal (usually just a few minutes). 

However, borders with Poland’s non-EU neighbors tend to have long queues and can take up to several hours to pass through. 

It is recommended taking a scenic route through the border stations located in the mountainous areas, most of all Jakuszyce and the Okraj Pass which are situated on both sides of the highest range of the Sudety Mountains, called Karkonosze. 

The road regulations enforced in Poland do not differ markedly from those in the rest of Europe. As everywhere on the continent, in Poland, you drive on the right side of the road.  The rules of circulation on the Polish roads defer in certain points from those of the European Union. Among the main differences can be noted the inexistence of the rule of the priority to the right, the absolute priority for the tramways, the prohibition of studded tires in winter and the 0 tolerance for alcohol when driving. Driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious offence. BAC limits are: up to 0.02% - not prosecuted by law, up to 0.05% - an offence, above 0.05% - criminal offence. An amount higher or equal to 0,5 mg/litre of alcool in blood is regarded as an offence which can involve a high fine, as well as a prison sentence up to 2 years and with immediate provisional detention. In case of accident, a report must be carried out on the spot by the police.

Speed limits are: -50km/h in city (60km/h at night) -90km/h outside city, 10km/h more if directions are separated 100km/h on car-only roads (white car on the blue sign), 10km/h more if directions are separated -130km/h on highways 

Driving with lights on is obligatory at all times. It is required to drive with the headlights on low beams from the 1st of October, to the end of February. . 

The Polish road network is inferior to that of most Western European countries, but quite functional and dense. The biggest problem is that there is no inter-city highway system and most of the country is linked only with single-carriageway roads, which are not suitable for the traffic volume they are experiencing. The most common problem with Polish highways is the prevalence of ruts, or potholes, but they tend to be well-marked and easy to navigate. 

 

Other useful sections of the website

Tourism in Poland

Travel to Poland