Tips for Expats Driving in Gdynia
Summary: Driving in a new country can be daunting. These tips offer insight into what to expect when driving in Gdynia.
1. Understanding the Driving Culture
Driving in Gdynia, like in most parts of Poland, requires a good understanding of the local driving culture. Polish drivers are known for their aggressive driving style, so it's important to stay alert and cautious at all times. The roads are generally in good condition, but traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hours.
2. Car Recommendation
As for the type of car, it largely depends on your personal preference and needs. Compact cars are recommended for city driving due to their maneuverability and fuel efficiency. However, if you plan on exploring the countryside or going on road trips, a larger car or SUV might be more suitable.
3. Parking in Gdynia
Finding a parking spot in Gdynia can be challenging, especially in the city center and during peak hours. Some areas have paid parking zones, so it's advisable to have some change with you. The cost of parking is not overly expensive, but it can add up if you park in the city center regularly.
4. Driving with an International License
Foreigners can drive in Poland with an international driving license for up to six months. After this period, you will need to obtain a Polish driving license. It's important to note that not all countries' driving licenses are recognized in Poland, so it's best to check this beforehand.
5. Obtaining a Polish Driving License
To get a Polish driving license, you will need to pass a theoretical and practical driving test. The tests are conducted in Polish, but you can request an interpreter. Before taking the tests, you will need to complete a driving course at a licensed driving school. The whole process can take several months, so it's best to start as soon as possible.
6. General Tips for Driving in Gdynia
Always wear your seatbelt and ensure all passengers do the same. The use of mobile phones while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free system. Be aware of the speed limits, which are strictly enforced. In residential areas, the limit is usually 50 km/h, while on highways it can be up to 140 km/h. Also, remember that the legal alcohol limit is very low (0.02%), so it's best not to drink at all if you plan on driving.
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BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions (BCBS) offers global health plans for international assignments or trips lasting 6 months or longer. With access to over 1.7M medical providers in 190 countries around the world, BCBS provides members with solutions and industry-leading digital services - ensuring top-quality coverage to people who live, work, study and travel internationally.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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