Why should you do a category B driver’s license before September 2026? The “Lauto” driving school from Warsaw indicates what changes in the regulations this year will bring

As a driving school from Warsaw, we will tell this story to the warning… It happened in January this year, when the new regulations came into force. Patrick, an experienced driver aged 40, drove his sedan into the parking lot of the company he worked in.

It probably wouldn’t be surprising if it wasn’t for the fact that he was driving a zigzag and constantly honking on other drivers who wanted to park. It was morning and people were in a hurry to work, but when he showed up in the parking lot, everyone stood wry looking at the unusual event.

Patrick alternated and slowed down, nervously gesturing on pedestrians and throwing profanity at them. Finally, someone from the crowd flew up to him as he stopped and got into an altercation with a colleague from the company, then opened the door of his car and pulled the keys out of the ignition.

A man reached for his phone and called the police, who showed up remarkably quickly. Patrick at the sight of the police officers paled and softened. He voluntarily underwent a sobriety test by the first police officer. Its result was more than 3.4 per mile of alcohol in the body.

Meanwhile, the second officer, who checked his data in the police car, reported that Patrick was in the system as a road recidivist with two active driving bans and revoked permissions…

How did the story of the intoxicated driver turn out? About that in a moment. First, we will explain what changes in the regulations the year 2026 brought and why it is worth making a category B license before September…

What has changed since January 1, 2026? Driving school from Warsaw indicates what drivers should know

Since the beginning of the year, there has been a tightening of regulations for drivers of vehicles. And so they have fallen more responsibility or harsher consequences for the most dangerous offences. In addition, the duties of drivers have been clarified.

Thanks to these changes, prison can threaten not only the perpetrator of the accident, but also for participation in illegal races, failure to comply with the court ban on driving or for a particularly dangerous ride.

What changes have taken place in the Penal Code? OSK from Warsaw indicates what drivers can be punished with a mandate

  • If we take part in illegal races involving at least two vehicles, we will face punishment.
  • If we deliberately put the car in the skid or detachment of the wheels from the surface during illegal rallies, we will answer from article 178c, as well as the organizer of these races.
  • If we grossly exceed the speed limit, violate the rules of traffic and expose other people to immediate danger of loss of health or life, then we will commit the crime of bravado driving from article 178d.
  • If we deliberately slip the vehicle or lead to loss of contact between the wheels and the surface, in the light of article 86c, we will commit the offense.
  • If we are in the role of spectators of these illegal races, we will also face a penalty from article 52aa.
  • If we plan to organize a rally in the open, which concerns more than ten vehicles, we need to notify the relevant municipal authority.

What changes have occurred in the penalty point tariffer? The OSK from the capital indicates how many penalty points the driver will pay

  • If we cause an accident in an illegal race, driving a vehicle despite a driving ban or grossly exceeding the speed limit, we can collect 15 penalty points.
  • If we use the vehicle in a way that threatens the safety of other traffic participants or causes a traffic hazard due to so-called drifting or driving on the rear wheel, we are threatened with 12 penalty points in the event that a collision occurs during their time (if not, 10 penalty points are provided).
  • It is worth bearing this in mind that the limit of points after which we will lose the right is 24 points, and in the case of young drivers with a license for less than a year: 20 points.

What other rules have come into effect since the New Year? The driving school from Warsaw indicates what drivers should pay special attention to

  • From now on, the ambulance can also use buses without the use of sound and light signals.
  • In addition, electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles can move on the buspas by 31 December 2027.
  • Some more serious offences will no longer be subject to a reduction in penalty points after completing the course in WORD.
  • The practical exam in WORD may be interrupted before all the prescribed tasks are performed if the behavior of the examinee endangers the life or health of the examiner or other traffic participant.
  • Obtaining a driving license will be under the new rules, which we have already written about in an earlier article.

Who has to ride in a protective helmet? The driving school from Warsaw indicates what changes in the regulations apply to a bicycle or an electric scooter

  • From March 3, 2026, the age of a child traveling with an electric scooter or a personal transport device has been increased to the age of 13.
  • If the child is in the care of an adult, he can use an electric scooter under the age of 13.
  • People up to the age of 16 will have to wear a protective helmet when moving by bicycle, electric scooter or other personal transport device.
  • You can transport a child under the age of 7 by bicycle, provided that he will wear a protective helmet and we will protect them in an additional saddle, car seat or in a trailer adapted to the carriage of people.
  • If we decide on the last two variants, we do not have to dress the child in a protective helmet, it is enough that we fasten them with a seat belt.
  • The new rules prohibit the carriage of a child by a bicycle with a drive in a trailer to protect them from burning exhaust gas from an exhaust pipe facing him.

Why should you make a category B license before starting a new school year? The driving school from Warsaw explains what changes will come into effect on September 3, 2026

Firstly, because from September 3, 2026, every driver obtaining a category B driving licence for the first time will be covered by a trial period.

What are the main rules of this trial period?

  • Duration. The standard is 2 years for adults. For 17-year-olds, this period will extend to 3 years, unless they reach the age of 20 earlier.
  • Ruthless sobriety. There is a limit of 0.0‰ alcohol in the body.
  • Speed limits. Slower driving – up to 50 km/h in the built-up area, 80 km/h outside it and 100 km/h on motorways and expressways (for the first 8 months).
  • Punishment points and training. After exceeding 12 points, paid practical training in ODTJ is required. The commission of two offences extends the trial period by another 2 years.
  • Vehicle designation. The need to place a sticker with a “green leaf” on the car window for the first 8 months.
  • Restrictions for 17-year-olds. To the age of majority driving only with an experienced passenger (at least 25 years, driving license for 5 years) and a ban on working as a courier or taxi driver.

Secondly, because the penalty for driving after stopping the driver’s license will be tightened. Earlier, when the driver was driving after stopping the license for three months (for example, for speeding by more than 50 km/h), then his driver’s license was retained for an additional three months. From now on, his powers will be fully revoked for a period of five years.

Summary. Driving school from Warsaw reveals how the story from the first paragraph turned out

Patrick was brought before a high court and heard a conviction:

„In the light of the new regulations,” said the judge, „I acknowledge the guilty of the charges presented and I pronounce a lifetime ban on you from driving motor vehicles, I impose on you a penalty of one year and two months of absolute imprisonment, the obligation to pay a benefit of 10 thousand zlotys to the Victims’ Relief Fund and a reference of 6 thousand zlotys to the State Treasury…

The judge looked at Patrick, who paled momentarily without expecting such a sentence, and thick drops of tears gathered under his eyes.

„I think,” said the judge, „that the head of the driving school from Warsaw, where you were doing a course for category B, to put it mildly, is not proud of you now…

How to buy a used car step by step? The driving school “Lauto” from Warsaw indicates how to hunt down a great opportunityccc

When Wiktor completed the course in the driving school from Warsaw and passed the exam in WORD, he immediately started buying a used car. First he looked for his friends and friends among his friends, then he ventured into OLX.

Every day he browsed dozens of offers, thanks to which he gained skill in the search and determined what kind of car he wanted and what requirements he should meet. In this way, he came to a great opportunity near Warsaw…

Before we get to the finale of this story, let’s explain how step by step Wiktor carried out the purchase process of a used car at a good price…

Step 1. Searching for the right car from the area. Driving school from Warsaw indicates how to find a great opportunity

Wiktor decided to buy a popular car so that there would be no problem with the availability of parts and expensive repairs. For this purpose, he chose the Opel Astra brand. In addition, he determined the price range and the course that interested him, and also looked for opportunities in the immediate area.

The day started by reviewing the offers on the OLX. Because he worked from home, he did it every hour. If there was an opportunity, as in this case, he immediately proceeded to act.

How did the young driver check if he was dealing with an opportunity?

  • First of all, he carefully reviewed the announcement, both the photo and the text. He definitely wanted to buy his first car from a private retailer, not from a trader. He also knew what tricks clever traders use. Fortunately, the chosen opel was not wet, which could indicate that the trader wanted to enhance the visual effect, because the wet varnish looks better. The interior of the car also did not look very nice, but it was neat. The text of the announcement was not written by a copywriter, it was natural and unpretentious. Wiktor also glanced at whether a salesman named Kazik also exhibited other cars or provided services in the field of automotive. He didn’t find anything like that.
  • Secondly, the boy reached for the phone and phoned the number indicated in the announcement. At first, he said he was calling about the car, but he didn’t tell me what he was talking about. If he had come across a trader, he would probably have asked which car he was interested in. As it turned out, Kazik came from the village and was the first owner of the opel astra, whom he serviced in Poland. He confirmed that the car was accident-free and gave his VIN number. Witek arranged with him that in two hours he would come to him to finalize the transaction. It’s just that the boy knew that if this was a real opportunity, the announcement would soon disappear from OLX…
  • Thirdly, the young driver made screenshots of the announcement to secure himself in case of later problems with the lack of memory of the seller. And he also used the portal ” autoDNA ” , where by entering the VIN number of the car from the announcement he obtained for a fee information about his insurance, accident or theft history.

Step 2. Self-check the car on site. Driving school from Warsaw indicates what to look for

When Victor arrived at the scene, the opel was waiting for him in the barn. Immediately the boy proceeded to pre-verify the copy.

How did the young driver check the condition of the car?

  • First of all, he took with him a meter of paint thickness. He knew that cars usually have a paint thickness of 90 to 150 microns, and in cavities from 40 to 80. And so the values in the range of 150 to 300 microns indicate re-varnishing, and even higher, that a putty was used. He especially pointed out whether it does not occur on the roof, in the trunk and in the alcoves, and whether the varnish has the same shade everywhere.
  • Second, he glanced under the hood at the engine. And such a clean engine could mean the seller wanted to hide the leaks. He also checked what color the oil is: whether it is worn, which would indicate poor use of the car. Then he started the car to listen to the engine, or if there are any taps. He waited for the car to warm up to assess whether the motor was not heating up and whether the cooling system was working well. He pointed out whether they were on fire, which could herald costly repairs.
  • Thirdly, he glanced at the interior of the car, which should not look better than a new one. If so, it is a sign that someone is trying to cover up the high mileage of the car. Similarly with scented Christmas trees: if there are a lot of them, perhaps it is a car after a flood.
  • Fourth, he did a test drive. During its time, he checked the operation of the clutch, gearbox, engine operation or brakes. He pointed out whether there are any taps, as well as how the air conditioning and electric equipment work.
  • Fifth, he checked the documents: the registration certificate and the vehicle card, and also glanced at the previous purchase invoices in the showroom.

Step 3. Order a car inspection from professionals. Driving school from Warsaw indicates where you can check the car

Although Victor did not notice anything disturbing, he wanted the specialists to verify that the car had no surprises. And so he had a choice of inspections at the sheet metal, mechanic, in ASO or by professionals who will get to the place and check the car.

The boy chose ASO because the car was several years old. As it turned out, the total cost of such inspections amounted to about 550 zł. The history of the vehicle was free. Although the price list of the inspection did not contain the „test drive” box, the boy persuaded the service mechanic to ride the opel and assess the condition in which he was.

How was the control in the ASO?

  • Oil leaks have been checked.
  • The engine status has been determined.
  • The chassis was inspected.
  • Computer diagnostics were carried out.
  • The thickness of the varnish was measured.
  • Complete documentation of visits to the site has been disclosed.
  • It was informed whether the warranty is valid because all inspections were done.

Step 4. Conclusion of a car purchase agreement. The driving school from Warsaw indicates how to effectively finalize the transaction

Although Wiktor already knew that he wanted to buy this opel, he decided to beat the price. At the time of his return, he exchanged things for Kazik that he would have to do by giving him a price list from the ASO. Due to the fact that these were trivialities, which did not require urgent action and the fact that Wiktor tried to beat the already low price, Kazik became furious.

When they returned to the farm, another customer was waiting for them. This man offered to take Opel to the diagnostic station, and then – if everything is OK – he will buy a car without breaking its price. Kazik agreed to this proposal.

How was the inspection at the diagnostic station?

  • The clearances were checked with jerks and a shock absorber tester, unmasking the clearances in the suspension.
  • Shock absorbers and brakes were inspected, the car was viewed from the bottom, checking whether it adorned the floor with a transverse weld along the threshold.
  • For 100 zlotys (plus 50 zlotys for inspection) the validity of the registration certificate was extended.
  • In addition, the potential buyer checked the history of the vehicle using a free government portal.

Immediately after the review, the man concluded a contract with Kazik to buy the sale of opel and sat behind his wheel, getting ready for the return road. The shocked Victor stood by the barn, with his mouth wide open. Then the buyer lowered the glass and said to the boy,

“My instructor from the LAUTO Warsaw driving school was right that such occasions come quickly and leave even faster, so you have to act quickly, not argue about a few PLN…

TOP 10
TOP 7 driving schools from Warsaw in 2026. OSK “Lauto” presents the ranking based on the opinion of students from the capital

Can I do a driving license course in 2 weeks? This question bothered Nicodemus, who received an offer that could not be rejected. It was about a great job with decent money.

Where was the hidden catch? The employer required the boy to have a license for category B. For the sake of anger, there was not much time to take the course, because in a month Nikodem was supposed to sit behind the wheel.

The boy didn’t give up. He invited seven friends to a pizza in the city who recently made a license for category B. They all passed the first or second approach, so apparently they chose a good OSK. Everyone also worked behind the wheel, either as a professional driver or as sales representatives.

So when they sat in a pizza place on the town, Nicodemus asked this key question:

“If you’re doing so well behind the wheel and you’ve passed the march in WORD, so tell me, where did you get your license?”

The answer that came out of their mouths shocked the boy. As it turned out, everyone was doing a course at the same school. Everyone also agreed that this is the best resort in the capital.

What school is this? About that in a moment. First, let’s list the seven best centers in Warsaw according to Google’s opinion. We chose only those OSKs that scored an average of 5.0 out of 5.0. The second selection criterion was the number of opinions. So if the school had more of them, it was ahead of the one that had fewer of them. Here are the best resorts, starting with the one who got the most grades with an average of 5.0 per 5.0.

Driving school “Gazelka” from Warsaw

  • Description. It is enough to go to the streets of the capital to come across an elka with the logo of this resort from time to time. This school is everywhere! We have to reckon with this, that when we open the refrigerator, you can leave it “Gazelle”. And seriously, it is the most popular in the city, the largest in the capital, a school that has been operating for years and has collected many great opinions of students.
  • Opinions. In Bemowo-Bielany alone, it scored 5.0 out of 5.0 at 1.2 thousand ratings.
  • Price list.

OSK “Expert” from Warsaw

  • Description. His instructors are people with the qualifications of an examiner, so you can say – although maybe it will be a bit far-fetched – that this is a school recommended by the WORD examiners. The rides run on the exam routes, so the student will practice all the traps or nooks and crannies that he can meet on the exam. It is the second most popular resort in the capital.
  • Opinions. In Bemowo, it is 5.0 by 5.0 at 1.2 thousand ratings.
  • Price list.

OSK Lejdis & Gentleman from Warsaw

  • Description. Like any big school, this one also has its pros and cons. Except that here the pros prevail, so ultimately it is worth to do training in this center. An undoubted advantage here is a wide staff of instructors, which makes that if we do not feel chemistry with one, we can exchange it for another, more tailored to us. We will definitely find here such an instructor who will be involved and casual in communication, so every ride will run in a pleasant and joyful atmosphere. Even on the day of the exam, we can count on the support of an instructor who will motivate us and entertain us so that we can take the exam without a spin and show the best version of ourselves.
  • Reviews. 5.0 out of 5.0 with 801 votes cast.
  • Price list.

Driving school “Auto Liga” from Warsaw

  • Description. This is a school that focuses on great psychological preparation for the exam in WORD. The instructors are cheerful and factual, and the preparation of the student individual, perfectly tailored to his needs and character. Thus, after driving, instructors will discuss every kilometre travelled, all the errors, but they will not do so to depress the student, but on the contrary: their tips will wing it and make the next rides better, and the WORD exam itself will become only a pleasant formality, because it will be passed on the first approach.
  • Reviews. 5.0 out of 5.0 at 624 ratings.
  • Price list.

OSK “Straight” from Warsaw

  • Description. An example of how this center works, let the story of Anka serve. Well, the girl was resigned, because in the previous school she left 80 hours behind the wheel and failed the exam in WORD 5 times. It would seem that he is not fit to be a driver. Nothing more wrong! It wasn’t her shortcomings that were the problem, but the center where she did the course. It was enough to change it to “Straight” so that all roads in the city became simple. The new school offered her driving in different cars, with different instructors and in different ways (a back mount or a bow in a million ways). Thanks to this, she became resistant to the stress of switching to an exam car with a new passenger (examiner) right next door. When she could not perform the manoeuvre during the training, the instructor patiently waited for her to cope, and did not grab the wheel and do not take it. So it’s no surprise that she passed without a problem…
  • Reviews. 5.0 out of 5.0 at 396 ratings issued.
  • Price list.

OSK “Konan” from Warsaw

  • Description. The ace of this center is Andrzej, a very friendly and patient instructor. Clearly and calmly explain everything, thanks to which the rides will run stress-free and in a relaxed atmosphere. You can ask him any question, and everyone will not be left without a substantive answer. So if you are looking for an instructor who has the characteristics of an ideal candidate for a husband (patient, ensuring safety, understanding, humorous and hardworking), Andrzej from OSK “Konann” will be a good choice. Unfortunately, but we have not been able to determine whether Andrew is married. There is no other way to find out: you need to sign up for a course in OSK “Konan”!
  • Reviews. 5.0 out of 5.0 at 359 ratings.
  • Price list. No price list for category B.

Driving school “IntroHL” from Warsaw

  • Description. Undoubtedly, starting the course in this center, you buy a first-class ticket, which can be seen at the price of the course. You pay here for the high quality of service, which is at every step, starting from running errands in the office, through theoretical training, and ending with practice. The instructors are nice, they approach their work in kind. They demand, but they do not terrorize the students, they only care about the great atmosphere, so that it is not known when the course will pass…
  • Reviews. 5.0 out of 5.0 at 345 ratings.
  • Price list.

Summary. What is the best driving school from Warsaw in 2026?

In order to answer this question, let’s go back to the story from the first paragraph. When Nikodem was looking for the best OSK, he invited seven friends to the pizza and asked them where they did the course. Everyone like one husband said:

— We did the license in the best school in the city, i.e. in OSK “Lauto”!

The boy went (or rather drove) in their footsteps.

How was Nicodemus’ training in driving school from Warsaw?

  • First, he did the theory in one weekend. Classes lasted from 9.00 to 18.00 on Saturday and Sunday.
  • Secondly, he enrolled in the WORD exam, which he passed 7 days later.
  • Thirdly, in the meantime, he sat behind the wheel every day, first after 2 hours, and then 3 hours a day.
  • Fourthly, he bought access to the “Fast Law” application, thanks to which – after leaving 30 hours – he signed up within 7 days for the practical exam in WORD in Bemowo.
  • Fifthly, 9 days later, he received his dream license and started working behind the wheel as a professional driver.

Now Nikodem is working behind the wheel at the same company where he was hired after making his license. When one day a friend invited him to a pizza and asked him where he had made his license, he said without hesitation:

“What do you mean where?” In the best driving school in Warsaw, i.e. in OSK “Lauto”!

Exam center in Warsaw
Does the examiner know which test we’re taking? Lauto Driving School in Warsaw answers students’ questions.

Exam center in Warsaw
Driving school prepare for exam

January 14, 2026

Does the examiner know which test we’re taking? Lauto Driving School in Warsaw answers students’ questions.

In one of the clubs, four students from a driving school in Warsaw were sitting at a table, discussing Monday’s exam, which they were scheduled to take in three days.

Suddenly a guy approached them and said bluntly:

— I was just passing by your table and heard that you had an exam at WORD https://www.word.waw.pl/…

The boys looked at each other and one of them replied:

— That’s true, but why are you interested in that?

—Because it’s hard to pass the exam, and I can help you with that. I’m an examiner…

— OK, but how much will it cost?

— Two and a half thousand per person…

The students asked the man many questions and when they were sure that he actually had the appropriate knowledge and a document confirming his profession, they bought the exam.

How did their story unfold? More on that in a moment. First, let’s answer students’ questions about contacting the examiner.

Here are the most frequently asked questions by students regarding WORD examiners:

Does the examiner know which exam we are taking?

The examiner doesn’t know how many times we’re taking the exam. They don’t even know who they’ll be examining until the last minute. The procedure is as follows: just before the exam, they go to the computer and draw a number for the candidate. Only after drawing the number will they learn their identity. However, they may ask after the exam how many times they’ve taken the exam. We can tell them, but we don’t have to… It’s worth mentioning that you can’t change the examiner.

What does the examiner know about the candidate?

During the random number drawing, the examiner learns the candidate’s name, surname, PESEL number, and any restrictions (for example, vision impairment and the requirement to wear glasses). While the WORD database contains information about how many times someone has passed their driving test or for what reason they lost their license, the examiner doesn’t have access to this information. At best, they can guess who’s license was revoked and whether they’re dealing with a rally driver (a driver whose license was revoked due to excessive points) or a taster (a driver who lost their license for drunk driving).

Do examiners intentionally fail?

Not really, at least we haven’t encountered anything like that. However, we’ve noticed a pattern. In Bemowo, the last attempt at the exam is at 2:00 PM. The driving test center (WORD) closes at 3:00 PM. It’s possible, therefore, that an examiner will quickly fail a student on the square, only to—after completing the paperwork—go home at 2:30 PM. So, what’s the conclusion? Don’t register for the exam during the last hour of the WORD’s operation, either in Bemowo or on Odlewnicza Street.

What if the examiner doesn’t say anything?

Then nothing bad happens. Typically, aside from route instructions, the examiner remains silent most of the time. They provide the most information before the test, when they explain how they will communicate. For example, they might say, „If we’re going straight, I won’t say anything.” Another might say, „Turn right or left.” Another might phrase it differently: „At the next possible intersection, turn right or left.” Sometimes their statement will be short, other times long. For example, instead of instructing, „At the roundabout, take the third exit,” they might say, „Turn left at the next intersection.” In conclusion, it’s crucial to listen carefully to the examiner’s initial words to easily decipher their communication style.

Why is it so difficult to pass a driving test?

We’ll answer the question with a question: „Why don’t students commit to practical training and purchase additional driving hours when necessary?” This negligence is precisely why they lack the necessary experience, and we rarely encounter unusual situations during the exam. Typically, what happens is what we might have encountered during the driving lessons. If we don’t commit to training or purchase the appropriate number of driving hours, we’ll be in for an unpleasant surprise during the exam…

In addition to the above, there’s something else. The maneuvering area is a real challenge. In Europe, this type of task is only found in Poland and Lithuania. It would definitely be better for the student if the maneuvering area were excluded from the exam. Firstly, because as much as 30% of the basic driving course time must be spent on the area instead of practicing city driving. Secondly, it’s very easy to fail the exam here. It’s enough for the candidate not to look out the rear window when reversing around a curve. Even if they were looking in their mirrors, they’d still fail… It must be admitted that the maneuvering area is convenient for the examiners, as they can quickly complete the exam without having to drive out into the city. Besides, it’s more enjoyable to take the exam outdoors than sitting in a car.

Does OSK see the student’s exam results?

No. GDPR prohibits WORD from sharing such data with Warsaw driving schools. Typically, students who have a good relationship with their school will report their exam performance.

Can I talk to the examiner?

Can you talk during the final exam? Probably not. It’s similar here, but you can definitely ask for a question to be repeated if you didn’t understand it. Previously, examiners would engage in pleasant conversations. However, when it turned out they had to interrupt the exam abruptly, they were accused of chatting with the examinee, which allegedly contributed to the student failing. For this reason, they prudently avoid engaging in conversation, but they’ll gladly repeat instructions or explain what they mean.

How to make a good impression on the examiner?

We arrive for the exam fifteen minutes early, well-rested and relaxed. We dress respectably rather than casually, but we don’t overdo it either way (nude or tailcoat). We are well-prepared and, from the very beginning of the exam, starting with the check under the hood, we have a command of everything. At the same time, we don’t argue, but rather humbly and calmly follow instructions. Our driving is smooth, and we always have a smile on our faces. We demonstrate high courtesy („please,” „thank you”) and don’t chew gum. In a situation where our fate hangs in the balance, these traits can tip the scales in our favor.

What types of examiners are there?

You can encounter formalists or laid-back types among both men and women. The former have every word carefully considered and quote the highway code by heart. The latter are human, behave naturally, and even smile at us.

However, it’s worth noting that it’s just as easy to pass with a formalist as it is to fail with a laid-back one. Personality doesn’t affect the exam’s outcome. It’s our skills that count. It’s also worth remembering that female examiners are just as good behind the wheel as male ones.

Summary. How did the story of the Warsaw driving school students end?

Let’s return to the story of the students from the first paragraph. They thought they had purchased the exam from a WORD examiner. However, on the day they took it, they discovered they had been deceived. The man who took 10,000 złoty from them did not work at the Warsaw WORD.

„Gentlemen,” said the head of the OSK, „since we joined the European Union, you can’t buy a driving license because cameras are installed in cars and the person taking the test is randomly selected. The only way to pass is through excellent training and learning to drive smoothly, which is what my driving school „Lauto” in Warsaw offers.”

driving license from 17th years old
17-Year-Olds Behind the Wheel? Warsaw’s Lauto Driving School Answers Students’ Questions

When Roman completed his driving course in Warsaw, he was just shy of 17. He then passed his driving tests at the Warsaw Driving School (WORD) and—after turning 17—received his dream category B license. Without hesitation, he got behind the wheel. He had previously met Klaudia, whom he decided to take on a date to celebrate getting his license. He had a surprise in the car that nearly gave her a heart attack.

That evening, Roman drove up to her house. He met her with a bouquet of roses and then opened the back door of the car. As soon as she settled into the backseat, she looked ahead and let out a shriek as if she’d seen a ghost. As it turned out, an old man was sitting in the front passenger seat, reading a newspaper. The man turned to the girl as if nothing had happened and, with a smile on his face, waved hello.

“Who is this gentleman?” she asked in a trembling voice.

„This is my Grandpa Antoni,” the boy replied, getting behind the wheel. „He’ll come with us, but don’t worry about him.”

„Hello, miss,” the older gentleman said, still looking at the girl from behind the front seat. „Please ignore me. I won’t bother you.”

„Is this some kind of joke?” the girl continued, unable to hide her shock and embarrassment. „What is this man doing here? Tell me this is a joke… No? I thought we were going on a date alone… What kind of man are you if you need your grandfather’s care?”

Before we reveal what Romek answered, let’s move on to the students’ questions about obtaining category B at the age of 17…

Here are 12 questions students have about getting their 17-year-old driver’s license. A driving school in Warsaw answers them.

Why was the age for category B lowered from 18 to 17?

This stems from the crisis currently affecting the European Union, which is a shortage of professional drivers. To address this, the age for obtaining a driving license for all categories is being lowered so that young drivers can obtain their truck and bus licenses earlier. Soon, 20-year-olds will be driving trucks, and 18-year-olds will be driving buses.

When will these regulations come into force?

This will take place three months after the publication of the Act of October 17, 2025, amending the Road Traffic Act and certain other acts, which entered into force on December 2, 2025. Therefore, the new regulations will apply from March 3, 2026. This means that from that date, juvenile learners will be able to take an earlier course at a driving school in Warsaw.

When is the earliest you can get a category B driving license?

The earliest you can start a driving course at a Warsaw driving school is three months before turning 17. Young learners will be able to take the Category B exam one month before turning 17. If they pass, they will receive their license on their 17th birthday at the earliest.

What are the disadvantages of getting a driving license at this age?

The biggest disadvantage may be the psychophysical immaturity of young learners, which, combined with reckless driving, may lead to a tragic accident on the road.

What are the advantages of getting a driving license at this age?

We definitely see more advantages to this solution than disadvantages. Young drivers will be mentored by an experienced driver for six months, which will improve road safety. Furthermore, knowledge is absorbed more quickly at this age, accelerating their learning. Young drivers will earn a driving license, which will expand their job opportunities and relieve their parents’ burdens in situations like picking up their sister from school. Transport companies are already popping the champagne corks, as the problem of the professional driver shortage will be addressed to some extent.

Will parental consent be required?

Of course, the consent of parents or legal guardians will be required, just as was the case when obtaining a driving license 3 months before reaching the age of majority.

Will it be possible to drive a car independently?

Underage drivers will be accompanied by a guardian for the first six months after obtaining their license or until they turn 18. The law specifies that this guardian must be at least 25 years old with five years of driving experience. These restrictions do not apply to driving school instructors or driving examiners from the Provincial Road Traffic Control (WORD), whose age may be lower. This guardian will sit in the front seat while the underage driver is driving. They must be sober and not be subject to a driving ban, either now or within the last five years. The law also specifies that underage drivers will be permitted to drive only within Poland until they turn 18.

Will there be a trial period?

As with 18-year-olds, there will also be a similar period here. However, for 18-year-olds it is 2 years, and for 17-year-olds it will be 3 years, or less if they turn 20 earlier.

What other restrictions will apply to 17-year-olds on probation?

First, a zero substance limit will apply. This means they will not be allowed to drive with even the minimum blood alcohol level or substances with similar effects. Second, they will not be allowed to transport minors without the presence of an experienced driver. Third, they will not be allowed to engage in commercial transport of passengers or goods.

Will there be penalty point limits during the probationary period?

If 17-year-olds exceed 12 penalty points, they will be required to complete mandatory practical training at a driving improvement center to address road hazards. Under the Act, this training will last one hour and cost a maximum of PLN 500.

Will there be speed limits during the trial period?

In built-up areas, 17-year-olds will have to drive no faster than 50 km/h, outside it no faster than 80 km/h, and on motorways and expressways they will be able to drive at a maximum speed of 100 km/h.

When can 17-year-olds expect their probation period to be extended?

If they commit a safety violation twice, however, if they commit the same violation twice again, they will lose their license.

Summary: A Warsaw driving school reveals whether a driving license for 17-year-olds is a good idea.

Let’s return to the story from the first paragraph. When Klaudia got into Roman’s car, she was shocked to find his grandfather, Antoni, sitting in the front passenger seat. He explained to her that these were the rules: he got his license at 17, and if he wanted to drive, he had to be accompanied by an experienced driver.

The rest of their date, however, turned out to be happier for Klaudia. First, she and Roman went to grab a bite to eat at the mall (while Grandpa Antoni was at the local cinema watching a war film), and then they went to the cinema to see a romantic comedy (while Grandpa was having vegan pizza). In short, everyone was satisfied.

Grandpa’s presence had a positive effect on Romek. The boy didn’t show off behind the wheel—he eased his heavy foot off the gas pedal and drove safely. As it soon turned out, things were even better. By the time they reached Klaudia’s house, Grandpa had dozed off, and the young couple were able to treat themselves to a farewell kiss.

“Thanks, Romek, for a wonderful evening!” the girl said cheerfully and disappeared into her house, the boy glad he had returned her in one piece.

Will a driving license for 17-year-olds be a hit? We don’t know for sure, but in our opinion—that of the „Lauto” driving school in Warsaw —the decision to grant licenses to young drivers has far more advantages than disadvantages and will positively impact road safety.

Rondo radosława
When does a tram have priority? Warsaw’s Lauto driving school highlights common mistakes drivers make.
Rondo radosława
Driving license in Warsaw

December 11, 2025

When does a tram have priority? Warsaw’s Lauto driving school highlights common mistakes drivers make.

A heated discussion was underway in the office of a Warsaw driving school. A father (a driver with thirty years of experience) and his son (a student preparing for the driving test at the Warsaw Driving School) were discussing the driving profession. The head of the Driving School (OSK) was listening in.

„What do you know about being a driver?” his father asked ironically, adding after a moment: „I’ve been behind the wheel for more than a quarter of a century. You’re just learning how to drive…”

The son’s blood boiled, especially since this remark was made in front of another man.

„But I know the rules better than you!” the student replied. „With your knowledge, it’s a miracle you survived on the road…”

The driver just laughed.

„If you’d like, gentlemen,” the center’s head replied conciliatorily, „I can ask you a few questions about tram priority. We’ll have a mini-quiz to determine who has the most knowledge. Are you in?”

Both men nodded in agreement, and a roguish smile lit up their faces. Which of them demonstrated greater knowledge? More on that in a moment. First, let’s examine the questions posed by the center’s director.

Tram Quiz. A Warsaw driving school lists the questions answered by the driver and student.

Who has priority: car or tram?

  • Question 1. We arrive at a parallel intersection. A tram is approaching from the opposite direction. We turn right, and the tram turns left, meaning our paths intersect.
  • Question 2: We arrive at an intersection with signs. We have priority, and a tram is coming from our right and has a „Yield” sign. We both go straight ahead, and our paths intersect.
  • Question 3. We are at an intersection with signs. Both we and the oncoming tram have priority. We turn left, and the tram turns right, meaning our paths intersect.
  • Question 4. We’re at a traffic light intersection. The light is green and we’re going straight ahead, but the tram in front of us also has a green light but is turning left, crossing our path.
  • Question 5. We’re at the intersection with traffic lights again. A tram is coming from the opposite direction and has a green light, just like us. However, we turn right, and the tram turns left, crossing our path.
  • Question 6. We are entering a circular intersection (also known as a roundabout) without „Yield” signs or traffic lights. Just as we enter the roundabout with priority, a tram pulls off the island, crossing our path.
  • Question 7. We are passing a roundabout with a „Give way” sign. Suddenly, we encounter a tram entering the roundabout where we are.
  • Question 8. We are entering a roundabout with traffic lights. Suddenly, a tram pulls out of the roundabout island, crossing our path.
  • Question 9. On our right, a tram is leaving the depot, wanting to join the traffic.
  • Question 10. We turn left at the intersection with traffic lights and a tram crosses our path.
  • Question 11. We are on a road with a so-called broken right-of-way. Thus, both we and the tram coming from our left have the right of way. Each of us is going straight ahead, and our paths intersect.

Tram priority rules. A driving school in Warsaw explains the rules that apply in traffic.

When does a tram have priority?

  • A level crossing. Here, regardless of which direction the tram is approaching from, it always has priority.
  • An intersection with signs. If a tram has a „Yield” sign, it must yield to us, while we have a „Priority Road.” However, if we are in an equal situation with a tram, because we have either a „Yield-Yield” sign or a „Priority-Priority,” then—if the tram turns, crossing our path because we are going straight—we must yield to it.
  • An intersection with traffic lights . If the light is green and we’re going straight, we have priority over a tram that’s turning and crossing our path. However, if the light is green and we’re turning left or right, the tram has priority over us, even if it’s also turning and crossing our path. This is the easiest way to collide with a tram, because we think we can safely go ahead…
  • Roundabouts without a „Yield” sign. Here, regardless of whether the tram is coming from the right or left, or whether it is entering or exiting the roundabout, it always has priority.
  • A circular intersection with a „Give Way ” sign. When a tram enters this roundabout, it, like other users, does not have priority, contrary to popular belief among many drivers. However, when it exits the roundabout (leaving the island), you must yield to it.
  • A roundabout intersection with traffic lights . Trams, like other vehicles, obey the traffic lights and have no priority here. However, if there are no separate signals for rail vehicles, a tram leaving the roundabout—coming off the island—has priority over us. However, if there were a signal on the island prohibiting trams from proceeding, they would have to yield to us.
  • Leaving a terminus or depot. If a tram is entering traffic, it must yield to us.
  • A stop with access across the road. If the tram stops at the stop, we must stop before the zigzag in the road. Even if the tram is close to stopping and people are already entering the road, we should also stop before the zigzag, without waiting for the tram to signal.
  • Becoming a „tram driver.” If we don’t want to become a „tram driver,” we must be careful not to turn right too quickly and enter a road with rails intended for trams. We should pay attention to vertical or horizontal signs that indicate we should turn further.

Answers to quiz questions. Warsaw driving school shows correct answers

What are the correct answers to the tram quiz?

  • Question 1. Answer: tram.
  • Question 2. Answer: car.
  • Question 3. Answer: tram.
  • Question 4. Answer: car.
  • Question 5. Answer: tram.
  • Question 6. Answer: tram.
  • Question 7. Answer: car.
  • Question 8. Answer: tram.
  • Question 9. Answer: car.
  • Question 10. Answer: tram.
  • Question 11. Answer: tram.

Who was the winner: the driver or the student? A Warsaw driving school reveals who got the most correct answers to tram quiz questions.

A quiz was taking place at the OSK office regarding tram priority rules. The center’s director posed 11 questions, and a father (the driver) and his son (the student) answered them. It soon turned out that the former had eight correct answers, while the latter had… 11!

„Dad, don’t worry,” said the student, patting the driver on the shoulder, „there’s no shame in not knowing all the rules…”

“The boy is right,” the center manager interjected, “because the driver doesn’t use all of them on a daily basis, so he might forget.”

„I’d be happy to give you some roadside training,” the son continued, „but on one condition: that you also give me some roadside training. That way, we can combine our new knowledge with our extensive roadside experience!”

In the office of the „Lauto” Warsaw driving school , there was a loud laugh from the men.

Wojewódzki ośrodek ruchu drogowego
Which WORD should you choose? The Lauto driving school in Warsaw shows you the easiest way to pass your category B driving test.

A large number of Warsaw driving school students were shocked to witness an unusual scene on a September morning. When they arrived at the WORD (Warsaw Driving School) on Radarowa Street for their driving test, they discovered the maneuvering area had been taken over by the president of the Okęcie Workers’ Sports Club.

The president of this club drove a tractor up a hill to perform maneuvers during the exam, then got out and spoke to the onlookers:

— Party’s over!

In this way, he plowed into a thriving driving test center with a tractor, which has yet to be restored. What was the issue? As usual, it was about money, as you can read about in this article: https://www.prawodrogowe.pl/informacje/ogloszenia/klopot-word-warszawa-czy-to-koniec-popularnej-radarowej .

Meanwhile, two branches of the Warsaw WORD remain: on Odlewnicza Street and in Bemowo. It’s worth remembering that this is a single WORD. For practical reasons, we’ll be referring to the WORD on Odlewnicza Street and the WORD on Bema Street, but we’re referring to one WORD, the Warsaw WORD.

Now we’ll compare which one is the better choice for the student. To do this, we’ll specify seven areas for evaluation. If a given testing center performs better in a given area, it will receive a plus from us; if it performs worse, it will receive a minus. We don’t accept ties: someone has to win.

What are the advantages of the WORD on Odlewnicza Street? A driving school in Warsaw reveals why students appreciate this testing center.

What are the advantages of WORD at Odlewnicza 8?

  • Exam hours: This WORD operates Monday through Saturday. For example, Monday through Thursday, it operates from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and Friday through Saturday, from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The wide availability of hours likely makes it the most popular WORD in the capital.
  • Exam categories. Here, you can take all exam categories. So, if you want to get your motorcycle license first, then your category B license, and then your bus, truck, or trailer license, it’s worth choosing this driving school, as you’ll already be familiar with the local routes and maneuvering area. This is another reason, besides the availability of hours, why so many Warsaw residents choose the driving school at Odlewnicza 8.
  • The pass rate for category B is slightly higher at the local WORD than in Bemowo. In September 2023, 56.50% of students passed the theory exam, and 34.80% passed the practical exam. For example, in May 2025, 35% passed the practical exam.
  • Google Reviews. This WORD not only received more reviews than the one in Bemowo, but also received a higher rating. Students gave it a rating of 3.8 out of 5.0, with 1,600 votes.
  1. What are the drawbacks of the WORD on Odlewnicza Street? A Warsaw driving school highlights what students dislike about this testing center.

What are the disadvantages of WORD at Odlewnicza 8?

  • Location. It’s located in Białołęka. That’s why it’s listed as a street, not a district, because Białołęka is the end of the world for a Varsovian. Although it must be admitted that this WORD is located at the beginning of the street, not the very end, which is to the advantage of this center. So for local residents of this district or right-bank Warsaw, it’s certainly a good location. Not so for the general population. After exiting the metro, you have to take a tram for about three stops. There are no residential buildings on site, and there’s nowhere to get a hot meal. Surrounding it are warehouses, a bakery, and a septic tank, which occasionally makes its presence felt…
  • Examiners. As mentioned, the Warsaw Provincial Examination Board (WORD) is a single institution with two branches. One is on Odlewnicza Street (headquarters) and the other is in Bemowo (branch). Therefore, some examiners can be found at both locations. However, those at Odlewnicza 8 are more principled and rigid. This may be due to the fact that they operate under the watchful eye of their boss, who resides at that address.
  • The testing area. Although smaller than the testing area in Bemowo, it is more challenging. The routes run in only one direction, towards Brudno, and require crossing a heavily trafficked expressway. In addition, there are eight to ten challenging intersections.
  1. What are the advantages of WORD in Bemowo? A driving school in Warsaw reveals what students liked.

What are the advantages of WORD in Bemowo?

  • Location. It’s located at Powstańców Śląskich Street 127A, close to the city center. This gives this place a location advantage. Although, if you get off at the metro stop, it’s still about 5-6 tram stops away. However, if you want to eat locally, there’s a shopping center directly opposite.
  • Examiners. Although the examiners are somewhat similar to those at Odlewnicza, one can sense that the ones here are more humane and friendly. This contributes to less stress during the exam. Perhaps their relaxed attitude stems from the fact that they are not under the watchful eye of the boss, who is based at Odlewnicza.
  • The testing area. Although the testing area here is larger, stretching from one metro station to another, and there are more directions to take, it’s definitely easier than the one on Odlewnicza Street. It’s true that there are about 20 intersections here, but their difficulty level is lower, and the routes are quieter and perfect for learning to drive in Warsaw. Furthermore, as many as 90% of the test routes consist of two driving variants, making them very easy to master during a driving course.
  1. What are the drawbacks of the WORD in Bemowo? A Warsaw driving school points out what students didn’t like.

What are the disadvantages of WORD in Bemowo?

  • Exam hours: Monday through Saturday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Limited availability means fewer people use this exam center. However, the wait time is the same as at Odlewnicza 8, as fewer people take the exam there.
  • Category B pass rate . Slightly fewer people pass the exam at the local WORD than at Odlewnicza. In September 2023, the pass rate was 50.20% for theory and 31% for practical. In May 2025, the pass rate was 33.3% for practical.
  • Google Reviews. This WORD received a lower student rating with fewer votes: 3.4 out of 5.0 with 625 votes.
  • Exam categories. Here, we’ll basically only do categories A and B. If we want to take the next ones later, we’ll have to go to Odlewnicza.

Where is the easiest place to get your category B driving license? A Warsaw driving school summarizes which Warsaw driving school is worth choosing.

Which WORD is the easiest to pass your driving test in Warsaw?

  • Exam hours. The winner in this category is WORD on Odlewnicza Street, which allows exams to be held even until 10:00 PM.
  • Exam categories . WORD on Odlewnicza wins again, allowing exams in all driving license categories.
  • The pass rate for category B. Foundry has a slightly higher pass rate.
  • Google reviews. Odlewnicza received a higher rating from students, with a thousand more votes.
  • Location. WORD in Bemowo wins because it’s not only close to the city center, but also has a shopping center opposite, where you can grab a hot meal.
  • Examiners. Although the examiners are somewhat the same at both driving schools, those at Bemowo seem more humane and sympathetic to students.
  • Testing area. If we want to choose an easier area that will prepare us for driving in the capital, WORD Bemowo is a better choice.

As you can see from the above, the driving school on Odlewnicza outperformed the one in Bemowo by a score of 4 to 3. This result accurately reflects the difference between them, which is small. In fact, it’s not the choice of driving school, but our commitment and selection of the right driving school—such as „Lauto” in Warsaw —that determines the outcome of our category B driving test.

Wojewódzki ośrodek ruchu drogowego
How to quickly register for a practical driving test at WORD? The Lauto driving school in Warsaw answers questions from category B students.

At Lauto Driving School in Warsaw, we often hear the question, „How quickly can I register for my practical driving test at WORD?” This is justified, as some students wait 5 to 6 weeks for their exam. Definitely too long if someone urgently needs their license…

Is there a chance to change this? Absolutely! We have four patents for this. But before we get to them, let’s tell the story of one student.

Kevin needed his driving license yesterday because he was starting a new job. He couldn’t wait the six weeks offered by the Warsaw Driving School. He decided to look for an exam center outside of Warsaw.

So the boy went to Grójec, where he took his category B driving test. He was confident of his success behind the wheel, so he greeted the local examiner with a smile on his face.

The examiner looked at his ID card and replied:

— Are you a smartass from Warsaw?

– I’m listening?

— Do you think you’ll pass here without any problems?

The examiner burst into loud laughter.

Did the student manage to pass the exam at the local WORD? Before we answer that question, let’s learn four ways to speed up the Category B exam…

First, we can change the city where we test. A driving school in Warsaw shows you how to change your driving license.

As we mentioned in the above story, we can change the city where we want to take the exam.

exam. This can be done online — we have WORD offices available throughout Poland, except Łomża, where registration must be done in person.

How to change the city where you take the exam?

  • If you’re registering for the exam for the first time, there’s no problem. You can use the Info-Car website to check available dates, select a WORD, and then register for the exam.
  • However, if you’ve already registered for a driving test in Warsaw or another city, you must first unblock your driver profile, which is locked in WORD for six months. If you need your profile unlocked quickly, you can visit our driving test center in person or send an email requesting this. Your profile should be unlocked within three days.
  • If we really want to take the exam in Łomża, we need to use the help of the local driving school, which we will commission to complete this formality on our behalf.

Secondly, we can submit an application to expedite the deadline. A driving school in Warsaw explains how to expedite the practical driving test at the capital’s driving school.

The second way to get an exam faster is to write an application to WORD to expedite the category B exam date. It is worth submitting it in person at the chosen examination center – on Odlewnicza or Bemowo – in Warsaw.

How do I properly submit an application to expedite my exam date?

  • We should justify our request by providing a genuine and compelling reason. For example, we could state that we urgently need a work license, are changing our city of residence, are going to college, or are traveling abroad.
  • Of course, our application will end up in the application pile. So, if we want it to stand out and be considered, let’s state that we’re happy with any date and time suggested by WORD.
  • It’s worth mentioning when an exam date becomes available at WORD. Every student has the right to cancel their scheduled exam two days in advance, free of charge. Many take advantage of this opportunity. This provides an opportunity for us to get a quick date.
  • When a student cancels their appointment, WORD looks for someone to take their place. Then, like a bolt from the blue, we’re hit with an offer of an exam in 3, 4, or 5 days. So, when a nice lady calls with such an offer, never say „No,” unless you want them to never call you back. Typically, the average wait for such a call is 2 weeks.

Third, we can use free apps. A driving school in Warsaw suggests which ones are worth using.

If you want to take the exam in Warsaw, it’s worth using apps that allow you to quickly schedule your exam in WORD. They’re also a good choice when looking for an exam center outside the capital.

What is worth knowing about these apps?

  • There are currently about 10 worthwhile apps on the market that can help you quickly register for your WORD exam. These include Szybka Prawko (Fast Driving License) and Złap Termin (Catch the Term).
  • These applications have a free version that refreshes every 15 minutes. This is when we receive notification that a free exam date has appeared on the Info-Car portal in our chosen WORD format. However, the difficulty here is that many people sit at their computers waiting for the notification about a free date and then manually click on it.
  • So, if you want to increase your chances of getting there before other students, it’s worth using paid apps like Szybki Egzamin (Fast Exam). These apps refresh every 1-2 minutes and cost 15-20 PLN. However, the problem of other students chatting on their computers to get ahead of others is a recurring problem, so you might not be able to register in time even if you purchase such an app.

Fourth, we can use the best paid app. A driving school from Warsaw explains why it’s worth choosing Szybka-jazda.pl.

So, if you want to be sure you’ll be able to register for your driving test quickly, it’s worth using the Szybka Jazda app . Here, you can be sure no one will beat you to it, as the application’s response time is limited to 0.3 seconds.

How does this app work?

  • First, we register on its website, where we select a specific WORD and the type of exam, i.e. in our case, category B.
  • Secondly, we provide our data and pay for this service in the amount of PLN 120.
  • Thirdly, we receive information about a free date within 1-2 days, which will most likely be in 3-6 days.
  • Fourth, we must pay for our scheduled exam within 30 minutes if we don’t want to lose it. We need to be especially vigilant between 7:00 and 9:00 a.m., as that’s when appointments usually become available.
  • Fifthly, if the application does not find a free date within 3 days, we can suspend its operation and recover the paid money (the refund will be made within 5 to 14 days).

Summary: A driving school from Warsaw explains how to quickly register for a practical driving test at WORD.

Let’s return to Kvin story from the first paragraph. The boy tensed up so much at the examiner’s words that his legs began to shake as if they were jelly. That’s why his car stalled twice on a hill, causing him to fail the test.

At the urging of the head of the „Lauto” driving school in Warsaw, Kevin used the Szybka Jazda app. Thanks to it, he took his category B driving test at the capital’s WORD (Warsaw Regional Office) that same week, passing without a problem.

Suzuki Swift exam car
How much does an hour of refresher driving cost? The Lauto driving school in Warsaw explains the rates applicable in the capital.

The phone rang at the driving school in Warsaw.

„Hello, I’m Ajay from India and I’d like to sign up for driving refresher training,” a voice said in English. „But I have a problem…”

“What is the problem?” the center director asked in English.

— Firstly, in India there is left-hand traffic, just like in Great Britain, and secondly, I have to do these trips this week because I start working as a taxi driver next week.

— I don’t see a problem here. We can start riding tomorrow.

— But there is a third problem…

– What?

— I’ll tell you when we meet…

What was the third problem? More on that in a moment. First, let’s understand how much an hour’s drive in the capital costs.

  1. What are refresher driving courses? A driving school in Warsaw provides a definition.

Refresher driving lessons are lessons following the basic course, which includes 30 hours of driving. Therefore, once you complete this course and pass the internal exam at the OSK, you will be eligible to take refresher driving lessons, or the supplementary course.

For example, at our „Lauto” driving school, refresher driving courses follow the exam routes. We know these routes because we bring our own cars to the exam at WORD and then use their GPS to track the entire route the car traveled during the exam.

Our students have the choice of taking the exam in either a manual or automatic car. Before the exam, they typically purchase an additional hour in a car of their choice from our driving school, which will then be provided for the exam. During this time, they practice cornering, hill-driving, intersections, and parking. They then take the driving test in the same car at the driving school.

If they choose a manual, they have a manual Hyundai available, which costs 320 PLN to rent for the exam (this price includes an hour of driving before the exam). The second option is an automatic, which costs 290 PLN just for the rental, and an additional hour must be purchased.

  1. Who can benefit from refresher driving lessons? A driving school in Warsaw explains how these lessons should be conducted.

Let’s start with who can’t take advantage of these rides. Students who haven’t completed the basic course are definitely not eligible. They must first complete the course and pass the exam at their local driving school, and only then can they purchase the appropriate number of refresher rides at any driving school.

Who can benefit from refresher driving?

  • First, there are students who have completed the course. This refers to those who have completed 30 hours of the basic course and passed the internal exam at their driving school.
  • Secondly, drivers with a driving license who want to improve their driving skills. It’s worth noting that in this case, we’re talking about observational driving lessons, not refresher driving lessons. These are often purchased by drivers who have lost their license due to points.

How should refresher driving lessons be conducted to be effective? They should be systematic, meaning once or twice a week, not rushed just before the exam. Knowledge is absorbed better when learning is spread out over time than when daily driving lessons are booked at the last minute. Then, fatigue from work and stress increase mistakes and hinder efficient learning. Unless you take time off and take refresher driving lessons during that time, then you can actually drive every day, which won’t disrupt the learning process.

One more thing worth noting: during the basic driving course, we are assigned to a single school. If we want to change schools, this involves obtaining driving licenses and changing schools. We’ve already written about how to change driving licenses in this article . The situation is different with refresher driving courses. Here, we aren’t assigned to a specific school that locks our driver profile, so we have the freedom to choose even several schools at once.

  1. Can an instructor force you to purchase refresher driving lessons? A driving school in Warsaw explains what privileges an instructor has.

Of course, the instructor can’t force you to purchase additional driving lessons. However, if a student fails their internal driving test, the instructor may offer additional paid driving lessons of 2, 5, 6, or 10 hours. These lessons are designed to teach safe driving and prepare for the exam.

Of course, the student could refuse this remedial plan and withdraw their documents and transfer to another school. But the fundamental question is: is this the right thing to do from a safety perspective? It could end in a dramatic way, as in this video .

  1. How many additional driving lessons should you buy for your basic driving course? A driving school in Warsaw explains how it works in practice.

Purchasing additional driving lessons is a matter of personal preference. It depends on both the student’s individual predispositions and their level of dedication during the course. Virtually no student is 100% prepared for the exam. Typically, most drivers are 60% ready after completing additional driving lessons, while experienced drivers would be 80% ready. During our experience, we’ve noticed that students fall into three groups in this regard.

How many refresher courses do students buy?

  • 20% of students do not purchase more hours beyond the basic course, which is 30 clock hours of driving.
  • 50% of students purchase up to 10 hours of additional driving.
  • 30% of students purchase up to 30 hours of additional driving lessons.
  1. When is it worth investing in additional driving lessons? A driving school in Warsaw tells you when it’s worth investing in extra hours on the road.

If you pass 80% of your exam and fail, you may not need to purchase additional driving lessons, but simply re-schedule your exam. However, there are several reasons why purchasing additional driving lessons is worthwhile.

When is it worth purchasing refresher driving lessons?

  • Firstly, when we feel insecure behind the wheel.
  • Secondly, if we fail in WORD, for example, we will only complete 20% of the exam or 20 minutes of driving out of 40 minutes.
  • Thirdly, when the instructor or examiner suggests it to us.
  1. What determines the price of refresher driving lessons? Warsaw driving schools list the factors that influence their rates.

There are several key factors that influence the price per hour of a course.

What determines the price per hour of additional driving?

  • Firstly, it depends on whether we drive a manual or automatic transmission.
  • Secondly, it depends on whether we travel on the weekend, when it is more expensive, or during the week.
  • Thirdly, it depends on how many hours we buy: usually, the more, the cheaper it will be.
  • Fourthly, whether we buy the basic course package with additional hours: then it will be the cheapest.
  • Fifthly, depending on our level of negotiation skills: it can always be cheaper.
  • Sixthly, on the skills and experience of the instructor.
  1. How much does an hour of driving refresher training cost? A driving school in Warsaw tells you how much you’ll pay in the capital.

In the capital, you’ll find a wide range of prices. Typically, one hour will cost between 140 and 200 PLN. However, if you purchase a 10-hour package and pay cash upfront, you can negotiate up to 125 PLN per hour on the road in some locations.

How did the story of the student from India end?

The next day, the head of the driving school from Warsaw met with a student from India.

“Please tell me what the third problem is,” said the head of OSK.

– Well, – replied the Indian – I have only spent half an hour in a car in my life…

— How much?! So how on earth did you get your license there?

Laughter rang out.

— Well, you know how…

„OK, I understand. If you want to buy refresher driving lessons from me, you have to agree to my terms. We’ll drive for as many hours as I deem appropriate. The point is, if you’re going to be a taxi driver, I need to be sure you’ll drive safely and that none of your passengers will be hurt…”

The Indian agreed to this condition. And so, the refresher driving courses at the „Lauto” driving school in Warsaw lasted 50 hours, during which Ajay learned to drive safely on Polish roads.

Warsaw Driving School Suzuki Swift
How to drive around a roundabout? The Lauto driving school in Warsaw explains the rules of roundabouts.

As it turned out, Paweł chose a good driving school—though not in Warsaw, but in Krakow—that taught him how to properly drive around roundabouts. However, his joy was short-lived…

The day of his category A driving test arrived. On his first attempt, Paweł negotiated the roundabout, just as he’d been taught at the Regional Traffic Control Center. He was supposed to turn left at the roundabout. So, before entering it, he activated his left indicator, which he only deactivated when he entered the inner lane (it was a two-lane roundabout). He negotiated the roundabout without using his indicator, which he activated as he exited the roundabout (of course, he activated his right indicator as he exited).

The examiner dragged him through the same roundabout again. Paweł did exactly the same thing: he used his left indicator before entering, then switched it off after moving into the middle lane, and then his right indicator when exiting. Meanwhile, the examiner told him to pull over and informed him that he had made the same mistake twice, thus failing the test…

What was this mistake? More on that in a moment. First, let’s explain how to drive safely around a roundabout…

How to drive around a roundabout with a yield sign? A Warsaw driving school explains the rules at this circular intersection.

Let’s start with the most popular roundabout in Poland, i.e. the intersection marked with signs C-12 („circular traffic”) and A-7 („give way”).

How to drive around a roundabout with a „give way” sign?

  • Firstly, before entering the roundabout, we must give way to vehicles already on it.
  • Second, we get into the correct lane and turn on our left turn signal (if we plan to turn left or make a U-turn) or our right turn signal (if we plan to turn right). If we’re going straight, we don’t turn on our turn signal.
  • Thirdly, if we are going left or making a U-turn, we turn on the left turn signal and take the left (i.e. middle) lane, provided it is free.
  • Fourth, we must yield to a tram exiting the roundabout island. If a tram is entering the roundabout, it must yield to us.
  • Fifth, as we approach our exit from the roundabout, we activate our right indicator. If we are driving in the left (inner) lane, we must yield to vehicles traveling in the right-hand lane we are about to enter. It’s worth remembering that we always use our indicators when changing direction or lane.

How to drive through a roundabout without a yield sign? A Warsaw driving school shows you how to navigate this circular intersection.

Although a roundabout with the C-12 („circular traffic”) sign without the A-7 („give way”) sign does not exist in Warsaw, we can come across them when traveling around Poland, for example in Katowice (Bishop Ignacy Jeż roundabout) or in Sosnowiec (at Stawowa Street).

How to drive around a roundabout without a yield sign?

  • Firstly, we have priority when entering this roundabout, because the right-hand rule applies here, i.e. the same as at equivalent intersections, which gives priority to vehicles on our right.
  • Secondly – ​​similarly to the previous roundabout discussed – we take the appropriate lane, turn on the appropriate indicator and enter the roundabout.
  • Thirdly, we give way not only to trams leaving the roundabout, but also to those entering it, because they are on our right.
  • Fourthly, let’s give way to vehicles entering the roundabout, because they are also on our right.
  • Fifth, we turn on the right indicator and exit the roundabout.

How to drive around a roundabout with traffic lights? A Warsaw driving school explains the rules of the Dmowski Roundabout.

Although this roundabout has signs A-7 and C-12, due to the fact that there are traffic lights that have a superior function over the vertical signs, the passage will be different than on a classic roundabout without the so-called traffic lights.

How to drive around a roundabout with traffic lights?

  • Firstly, if we are going straight or to the right, our passage will be the same as if we were going through any intersection with traffic lights.
  • Secondly, if we’re turning left or making a U-turn, the ride will be slightly different. We’ll describe how to perform these maneuvers in a moment.
  • Thirdly, if we want to turn left or make a U-turn, we turn on the left turn signal and take the left lane before the intersection.
  • Fourth, if we’re turning left, we immediately move into the right-hand lane, which will take us out of the roundabout. If we’re making a U-turn, we move into the left-hand (inner) lane, meaning we turn left twice.
  • Fifth, if we have a so-called green arrow (sign S-2), we don’t worry about the tram, as it indicates a grade-separated crossing. However, if there is no green arrow, the tram also has a green light and we must let it pass.
  • Sixthly, when exiting, we take the right lane, not the left, so that we do not have to go around in circles, and we do not have to exit with the right turn signal on.

How to drive around a turbo roundabout? A Warsaw driving school explains the rules.

A unique feature of a turbo roundabout is that the traffic lanes do not intersect, as they are separated from each other. Therefore, in theory, they ensure safe passage through the roundabout.

How to drive on a turbo roundabout?

  • First, we must take the appropriate lane to drive straight, right or left, turn on the appropriate indicator for the direction of travel and give way to vehicles on the roundabout.
  • Secondly, if we are going right, we take the right lane and turn on the right turn signal until we exit the roundabout.
  • Third, when driving straight ahead, you may have two lanes available (left and right). Choose one without having to use your turn signal.
  • Fourthly, when turning left or making a U-turn, we take the left lane before entering the roundabout and turn on the left indicator to go around the roundabout in our clear lane, and then turn on the right indicator when leaving the roundabout.
  • Fifth, if you’re driving on a single-carriageway road (previously dual-carriageways), signal appropriately before entering the roundabout, yield to vehicles there, and use the right lane on the roundabout shield for turning right or straight ahead, or the left lane for turning left or making a U-turn. When leaving the roundabout, signal right.

Summary: When to signal at a roundabout? A driving school in Warsaw explains how Paweł’s story unfolded.

Even though Paweł did exactly as recommended in our article, he failed his driving test. The examiner concluded that Paweł could not have driven through the roundabout without using his indicator when turning left.

The boy only used his left indicator before entering the roundabout, and then his right indicator when exiting. According to the examiner, this wasn’t enough…

However, the student appealed the examiner’s decision to the Provincial Administrative Court, which ruled that when turning left at a roundabout, it was not necessary to use the left indicator before entering and while passing through the roundabout. The voivodeship marshal therefore invalidated the practical part of the exam .

Although there is no such obligation, we at the „Lauto” driving school from Warsaw recommend that you use your turn signal before entering the roundabout, just as when leaving it, which will significantly improve your safety and make life easier for other road users.