How to Buy, Register, and Import a Car in Poland (2025 Guide for Expats)

This article explains everything about buying a car in Poland as a foreigner, including legal rules, taxes, PESEL, registration, and insurance in 2025. Whether you’re importing a car from the EU or USA, or buying from a local seller, this is your full guide.

Thinking of getting a car while living in Poland? Whether you’re a newly arrived expat, a returning Pole, or setting up a business — the car you drive can quickly become your greatest freedom… or your biggest legal headache. 🧾🚗

This is the most legally accurate, step-by-step guide online in 2025 for car ownership in Poland. It’s made for foreigners, digital nomads, students, and business owners who need clarity — not government jargon or half-truths from Reddit.

We’ll walk you through every step, including:

• ✅ Buying a car inside Poland (dealer vs private)
• ✅ Importing from the EU (e.g. Germany)
• ✅ Importing from outside the EU (e.g. USA, UK, Ukraine)
• ✅ Business vehicle registration and leasing
• ✅ Scams to avoid and red flags to watch for
• ✅ A full comparison table and real customer scenarios

This isn’t just a checklist — it’s a survival map for car ownership in Poland. If you’re also handling PESEL, driver’s license exchange, or setting up a company, we’ll show you where to click. Need help? That’s what English Wizards does.

Let’s dive in. 👇

Any foreigner can legally buy a car in Poland — but the real issue is registration. If you can’t register it, you can’t drive it. Whether you’re a resident with PESEL, a business owner with a JDG, or a visitor without official status, the rules change depending on your situation. Here’s what you need to know.

📄 Legal Right to Purchase

There are no restrictions preventing foreigners from purchasing vehicles in Poland. What matters is whether you can legally register and use it:

• With PESEL: You can register and insure the car without issue.
• Without PESEL: You must prove legal residence (e.g., rental contract, visa, TRC). Registration is still possible but may require extra paperwork.
• Without any legal status: You can still buy a car, but you cannot register or insure it — meaning it stays off-road until resolved.

💡 Need PESEL help? We offer in-person assistance here: PESEL Registration Support.

📝 Required Documents at Purchase

When buying a car from either a private seller or a dealer, you must receive the following:

• Umowa kupna-sprzedaży (sales contract) or VAT invoice
• Dowód rejestracyjny (registration certificate) – must include valid inspection
• Karta pojazdu (vehicle card) – if issued
• OC insurance details – current liability insurance
• All sets of keys, service book, manuals (if applicable)

📑 Sales Contract Rules

The umowa kupna-sprzedaży must be written and include:

• Full details of buyer and seller (names, IDs, addresses)
• Vehicle details: make, model, VIN, engine, mileage
• Price in PLN and sale date
• Clear ownership transfer statement
• Signatures from both parties

No notarization is needed unless either party requests it.

📍 Registration Process (Urząd Komunikacji)

You must register the car within 30 days of purchase at your local city transport office (Urząd Komunikacji). Required documents include:

• Completed application form
• Sales contract or VAT invoice
• Original registration certificate with inspection record
• Karta pojazdu (if issued)
• Proof of identity and address in Poland
• Proof of valid OC insurance
• Payment of registration fee (approx. 180 PLN)

You’ll receive temporary plates and a temporary registration valid for 30 days. Permanent documents follow after verification. Foreign-language documents must be officially translated (EU-format ones are usually exempt).

🔧 Technical Inspection (Przegląd Techniczny)

The car must have a valid inspection to be registered. If it’s expired, get it done at an authorized station for around 100–150 PLN. This confirms roadworthiness and emissions.

💰 Car Taxes: PCC vs VAT

• PCC (Podatek od czynności cywilnoprawnych): If buying from a private person, you must file form PCC-3 and pay 2% tax within 14 days.
• VAT: If buying from a VAT-registered business, no PCC applies. The 23% VAT is included in the invoice.

You can file PCC online via e-Podatki or at your local tax office.

🛡️ OC Insurance Rules

• OC liability insurance transfers to the new owner by default
• But it does not renew — you must get your own OC policy before it expires
• Driving without OC is illegal and heavily fined (up to 9,330 PLN)

🔍 Vehicle History Check

Use the official government tool: historiapojazdu.gov.pl. You’ll need the VIN, registration number, and first registration date.

It shows:

• Inspection and mileage history
• Accident or salvage records
• Whether the car was ever scrapped or stolen

✅ Always get a used car inspected by a third-party mechanic and checked for debts or liens. It’s the easiest way to avoid scams, legal issues, or buying a write-off.

Importing a car from another EU country — like Germany, France, or the Netherlands — is legal, common, and often cheaper than buying locally. But don’t let the “EU means easy” myth fool you. You still need to follow Polish tax, translation, and inspection rules — and missing a step can cost you.

📦 What to Collect at the Time of Purchase

If you’re buying a car abroad, make sure you get all the following before leaving:

• Original registration certificate (EU-compliant format)
• Sales invoice or signed purchase agreement
• Proof of valid inspection from the source country
• Export plates or temporary registration (optional, depends on transit method)
• Certificate of Conformity (CoC) if possible

🛃 Driving the Car into Poland

You can drive it yourself across the border using either the original plates (if valid) or temporary export plates. Just make sure you have:

• Valid third-party insurance that covers Poland
• All original purchase documents in the vehicle

📍 Registration Steps in Poland

Once in Poland, you have 30 days to register the vehicle at your local Urząd Komunikacji. You’ll need:

• Application form for registration
• Foreign registration certificate
• Sales contract or invoice
• Certificate of Conformity (if available)
• Proof of identity and residence (passport, PESEL, lease, etc.)
• Proof of valid OC insurance
• Polish technical inspection certificate (if needed)
• Official translations of documents (unless in EU-standard multilingual format)

⚠️ Most EU registration certificates don’t need translation if they follow the EU format (multilingual and coded). If in doubt, ask your local office or get a sworn translator.

🔧 Technical Inspection

Most imported cars will need a fresh Polish inspection (przegląd techniczny) before registration — especially if the last foreign inspection has expired or doesn’t meet local format. Cost: 100–150 PLN. The technician will check roadworthiness and emissions compliance.

💰 Tax Implications

• Excise Duty (Akcyza): YES, even though it’s from the EU. Rates depend on engine size:
  • 3.1% for engines ≤ 2000 cm³
  • 18.6% for engines > 2000 cm³

  You must file an AKC-US form via PUESC and pay within 30 days. After payment, you receive a certificate to present at registration.

• VAT:
  • No VAT due on used cars bought under the VAT margin scheme
  • VAT may apply on new cars (under 6 months or <6,000 km) or if purchased from a business with full VAT invoice
• PCC tax: Not applicable on EU imports

🌱 Emissions and Environmental Zones

There is no national ban on older petrol or diesel cars, but cities are tightening rules. Starting in 2024–2025, some cities (e.g., Warsaw, Kraków) are introducing Clean Transport Zones (Strefy Czystego Transportu) that restrict access to high-emission vehicles.

• By 2028 (Warsaw): Diesels must be at least Euro 6, petrol at least Euro 4
• By 2030: Minimums increase to Euro 6 (diesel) and Euro 5 (petrol)

All cars must have emissions class noted on their Polish registration certificate to enter these zones.

🚫 If you’re importing an older diesel or petrol vehicle, check whether your city has announced local restrictions before you buy. It might not be drivable in key areas.

✅ Summary: What to Expect

• You don’t pay PCC (civil transaction tax)
• You still pay Akcyza (excise) based on engine size
• You may owe VAT if it’s a new car or dealer sale
• Registration deadline is 30 days after entry
• Inspection is usually required in Poland
• Some documents may need translation
• Be mindful of emissions rules in major cities

Importing a car from outside the EU — like the United States, United Kingdom, Ukraine, or Japan — involves more steps, more taxes, and tighter technical requirements than EU imports. But it’s still possible and legal if you follow the process precisely.

📦 Required Documents & Customs Declarations

At import, you must file a customs declaration and clear the car through Polish customs. Required items:

• SAD (Single Administrative Document) – standard customs import form
• Proof of purchase (invoice or contract)
• Vehicle title or original registration certificate
• Identity and residence documents
• Proof of shipping costs (for VAT calculation)

💰 Taxes & Duties at Import

Cars imported from outside the EU are subject to the following charges:

• Customs Duty: Usually 10% of the vehicle’s value (CIF – cost, insurance, freight)
• VAT: 23% of the full CIF value (including customs duty)
• Excise Duty (Akcyza):
  • 3.1% for engines ≤ 2000 cm³
  • 18.6% for engines > 2000 cm³

  Akcyza must be filed and paid via PUESC within 30 days using the AKC-US form. You will receive a payment certificate that is required for registration.

🔧 Technical Inspection & Compliance

Non-EU cars must pass a Polish technical inspection — and modifications are often required:

• Headlights adjusted for right-hand driving (Poland is right-hand traffic)
• Rear fog light required
• Speedometer must show km/h (not just mph)
• EU-style emissions and safety standards must be met

Expect to pay for technical adjustments and re-inspection if the vehicle fails initially. You’ll need the inspection certificate to register the car.

📑 Registration Process in Poland

After clearing customs and completing modifications, proceed with standard registration at your local Urząd Komunikacji. You’ll need:

• Customs clearance confirmation
• Proof of Akcyza payment
• Original foreign registration/title + official Polish translations
• Sales invoice or purchase contract
• Polish technical inspection certificate
• Proof of OC insurance
• Application form, passport/residence card, proof of address

⚠️ Translations must be sworn (certified) for any non-EU language documents (English, Japanese, Ukrainian, etc.).

🚗 Can You Register the Car in Poland?

Yes — most vehicles from the US, UK, or Asia can be registered in Poland, provided they pass inspection and legal modifications. Some exotic or salvage vehicles may require additional homologation testing or be outright refused.

🕓 Temporary vs Permanent Import

If you are a tourist or temporary resident, you may be able to drive a foreign-plated vehicle in Poland for up to 6 months — but this must be reported to customs if you plan to stay longer. After that, you must register the car in Poland or export it.

❌ Penalties for Non-Compliance

• Unregistered foreign vehicles after 30 days may be confiscated or fined
• Driving with incorrect headlights, no fog light, or mph-only speedometer may fail inspection
• Failure to pay VAT, duty, or excise can result in tax proceedings or seizure

✅ Tip: Work with a local garage that has experience modifying non-EU cars to Polish/EU standards before attempting registration. This saves time, cost, and hassle.

If you’re a freelancer, digital nomad, or running a business in Poland, you may want to lease a car or register one under your company. Poland allows this — but it depends on your legal status, whether you have a PESEL, and what type of business structure you’re using (JDG, sp. z o.o., etc.).

🚘 Can Foreigners Lease or Finance a Car in Poland?

Yes — but you typically need:

• A valid PESEL number
• Proof of income or business activity in Poland
• Legal residence and ID (residence card, passport)

Some leasing companies also ask for a credit check or employment contract. Foreigners without PESEL or stable income usually cannot lease or finance privately, unless they do so through a company or co-signer.

✅ Need help setting up a legal business for vehicle ownership? Start a JDG or LLC with our support.

🏢 Registering a Car to a Sole Proprietorship (JDG)

If you run a JDG (Polish sole trader), you can register a car directly to the business. This opens access to tax deductions, simplified accounting, and potential full VAT recovery.

• Business name appears as the vehicle owner
• Registration process is the same, but NIP (tax ID) and company stamp may be needed
• Car is treated as a business asset under tax rules

📊 Tax Deductions for Company Vehicles

Depending on how you use the vehicle, here’s what you can deduct:

• 100% VAT deduction – only if the car is used exclusively for business, declared on VAT-26 form, and supported with a kilometrówka (logbook)
• 50% VAT deduction – for mixed personal/business use (default rule)
• Income tax deductions – business-related fuel, repairs, insurance, parking, tolls, etc.
• Depreciation – the cost of the car can be depreciated over time as a company asset

💡 Want help opening a business that allows legal car ownership and deductions? Visit our Business Setup Program.

🧾 Kilometrówka (Mileage Log)

If you want to deduct 100% VAT and full business costs, you must keep a detailed mileage log (kilometrówka), recording:

• Date and route of each trip
• Purpose of the trip

Inspections may require you to show this log, so keep it current and accurate.

🚨 Reminder: VAT Rules Matter

• Use car for business only? Declare 100%, file VAT-26, keep kilometrówka
• Use car for both? Deduct only 50%, no kilometrówka required

⚠️ Mixing private use with 100% VAT claims without logs is risky — expect audits and penalties.

Also, if you’re driving in Poland on a foreign license, don’t forget — you may need to exchange it for a Polish one after six months. We’ve broken down that entire process step-by-step here: How to Get a Polish Driver’s License →

Foreigners are frequent targets in the used car market. Whether it’s a private seller, a shady lot, or a dodgy import, Poland has its share of mileage fraud, fake documents, and cleverly disguised disasters on wheels. This section outlines the biggest traps — and how to avoid them.

🔁 Clocked Mileage (Cofanie Licznika)

This is the #1 scam in Poland’s used car market. Odometers are rolled back by 50,000–150,000 km to increase the sale price. It’s illegal, but still rampant.

✅ Solution: Always check the VIN using the official government tool: historiapojazdu.gov.pl. It records inspection-based mileage data from 2014 onward. Any sudden drop = red flag.

💥 Rebuilt or Salvage Vehicles Sold as “Clean”

Cars marked as damaged, salvaged, or previously scrapped are often cleaned up and resold as regular used cars. These may drive fine — until they don’t.

✅ Solution: Use the CEPiK database to check accident history and ensure the car was never officially scrapped (“niedopuszczony do ruchu”).

📄 Fake Documents or Stolen Imports

Some sellers tamper with registration documents, VIN plates, or import papers. Others attempt to sell cars with unpaid taxes, fines, or under foreign ownership (which can’t legally be sold in Poland).

✅ Solution: Verify the seller’s identity matches the documents. Check that the VIN on the chassis matches the papers. Avoid any deal where the seller hesitates to show full originals.

💸 Cars with Unpaid Loans or Leasing Obligations

Some vehicles are sold before being fully paid off. This is illegal — and risky. The lender still owns the car, and the “buyer” can lose it entirely.

✅ Solution: Ask for written proof the car is free of debts or leasing. Consider a notarial statement or official clearance for high-value cars.

🧾 “Tourist Pricing” & Contract Tricks

It’s common for private sellers and some dealers to quote inflated prices to foreigners — especially in English. Some will avoid signing a proper umowa kupna-sprzedaży or hide behind shady purchase notes or verbal offers.

✅ Solution: Always insist on the standard sales contract with full ID info, VIN, price, and signatures. Don’t hand over cash without it. And if a deal feels rushed or “too good,” walk away.

📉 Delays in Insurance or Document Transfers

Even legitimate sellers may delay transferring OC insurance, cancel it the same day, or “forget” to hand over the karta pojazdu or registration certificate. You could end up with an uninsured, unregisterable vehicle.

✅ Solution: Don’t pay or sign anything until all original documents and insurance info are in your hand — and verified.

🧠 Final Checklist Before You Buy

• ✅ VIN matches on car and documents
• ✅ Vehicle has valid OC insurance
• ✅ Przegląd (inspection) is current or done on day of sale
• ✅ No mileage drops in VIN history (check via historiapojazdu.gov.pl)
• ✅ All documents present: dowód rejestracyjny, karta pojazdu, umowa or invoice
• ✅ Identity of seller matches documents
• ✅ Price is in line with market average — check otomoto.pl or similar
• ✅ Third-party inspection complete (mechanic or SKP station)

✅ Most important tip: If you’re buying second-hand, always get the vehicle checked by a licensed Polish mechanic or inspection station. A 200–300 PLN check can save you thousands in legal and repair nightmares.

Here’s what this process looks like for real people — expats, freelancers, digital nomads, and returning citizens. These aren’t edge cases. These are normal car buyers navigating Polish bureaucracy and finding smarter ways through it.

🇩🇪 Lukas from Germany: EU Import, Business Use

Lukas bought a 2020 Audi A4 from a dealer in Munich and drove it to Poland. Because it was an EU sale with a margin invoice, there was no VAT — but he still had to file and pay Akcyza (excise) and complete a technical inspection before registering. He wanted to deduct VAT and expenses, so he opened a JDG sole proprietorship and registered the car as a company vehicle.

✅ We helped Lukas register his JDG, handle excise filing, and submit his VAT-26 form for 100% business deductions.

🇺🇸 Hannah from the USA: Import Nightmare to Legal Victory

Hannah imported a Mustang from Florida. She didn’t realize she had to change the lights, add a fog lamp, convert the speedometer, and file separate customs, VAT, and excise forms. Her initial inspection failed, and registration was denied.

✅ Our team walked her through technical modification requirements, found a garage that could certify it, and helped file the full customs declaration package correctly.

🇬🇧 James from the UK: Post-Brexit Paperwork Maze

James moved to Poland with his right-hand drive Vauxhall. Although it was roadworthy, registration was delayed due to missing document translations and confusion over customs clearance post-Brexit.

✅ We arranged sworn translations, assisted with the AKC-US filing, and registered the car under his PESEL. He’s now fully legal and insured.

🇺🇦 Oksana from Ukraine: Fast Setup on a Budget

Oksana moved to Poland with her family and needed a car urgently. She bought a local used Opel Astra from a private seller — but didn’t know about the 2% PCC tax, the expired inspection, or insurance transfer rules.

✅ We helped her file the PCC-3, guided her to a nearby SKP station for inspection, and switched the OC insurance under her name within 48 hours.

🇵🇱 John (Australian with Polish Roots): Smart Local Purchase + Driver’s License Exchange

John relocated from Australia and wanted to buy a used car while waiting for his TRC. He had no PESEL yet but had a valid lease and passport. He also needed to swap his foreign license.

✅ We helped him register the car via address-based proof, obtain his PESEL quickly, and exchange his Australian license through our driver’s license exchange service.

Need Similar Help?

Whether you’re importing a dream car, buying something practical, or sorting business deductions, we can help you get everything done legally, fast, and without mistakes.

🚗 Explore our full relocation services here

Car paperwork in Poland is a minefield — but only if you don’t know what to expect. Below is a side-by-side breakdown of the most common car buying and import routes foreigners take, showing exactly which taxes apply, what inspections or translations are required, and how fast you must act.

💡 Note: Every imported vehicle must be registered within 30 days of crossing the border, regardless of condition or whether it has plates. Failure to do so results in fines up to 1,000 PLN.

✅ Not sure which category your car falls into? We can walk you through it and even handle the paperwork on your behalf.

Start with our relocation team and avoid the fines, confusion, or missed deadlines.

Buying or importing a car in Poland as a foreigner can be surprisingly straightforward — but only if you understand the paperwork maze, taxes, and deadlines in advance. Whether you’re picking up a used car from a private seller in Warsaw, importing your dream ride from the US, or registering a company car to your JDG, the steps are clearly defined. But missing just one can cost you fines, delays, or even outright rejection at the registration office.

Here’s what matters most:

• ⏳ Act fast: You’ve got 30 days to register your new vehicle after any purchase or import.
• 📄 Gather every document: No exceptions. Missing the karta pojazdu or dowód rejestracyjny? You’re stuck.
• 🔍 Verify the vehicle history: Check CEPIK and confirm insurance, inspection, VIN, and mileage.
• 🏛️ Know where to file: Tax office (US), Urząd Komunikacji, and possibly ePUAP — all have their role.
• 💰 Understand your taxes: PCC, VAT, Akcyza — it depends on where the car comes from and how it was sold.

📌 Most importantly, remember that **Polish bureaucracy favors those who come prepared**. The smallest inconsistency can block your registration. And if you’re using foreign documents, they often need to be translated, certified, and checked for authenticity.

If you’ve made it this far, you’re already better informed than 90% of foreigners trying to buy a car here. Still confused? Don’t risk it. One wrong form or missed deadline can kill your mobility. Work with experts who do this for a living — and know how to smooth-talk the urzędnik when needed.

Talk to our relocation team and let us take the stress off your plate. From PESEL to plates, we’ve got you covered.

Want to hit the road legally too? Learn how to convert your foreign license to a Polish one — step-by-step. Check it out here →

Every legal and procedural step covered in this guide is based on verified information from official Polish government portals, regulations, and legal texts. Use the links below to access the most accurate and up-to-date resources:

• Polish Ministry of Infrastructure – National policies on vehicle ownership, emissions, and road regulations
• Vehicle History Checker – Official CEPIK system for checking mileage, inspections, and previous owners
• CEPIK Vehicle Database Access – Alternate route for verifying car history using PESEL or trusted profile
• PUESC Portal – Pay excise duty (akcyza), check customs regulations, file import declarations
• Polish Tax Office (KAS) – Taxation rules on car sales, VAT refunds, and PCC filings
• Vehicle Registration in Warsaw (BIP) – City-level instructions on registering a car in Poland
• Prawo o ruchu drogowym (Polish Road Traffic Act) – Full legal act governing vehicles and drivers
• Ustawa o elektromobilności – Environmental vehicle regulations and low-emission zone compliance

If you’re uncertain how to navigate any of these legal processes, reach out to English Wizards Relocation Services for guided help tailored to expats and foreigners.