Car Insurance in Poland: Everything You Need to Know (2025 Guide)

Car insurance is a crucial requirement for drivers in Poland, whether you're a local resident or an expat. With a growing number of people choosing to live, work, or study in Poland, understanding how car insurance works in the country is essential for safe and legal driving. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of car insurance in Poland, including types of coverage, legal obligations, average costs, and practical tips for both residents and foreigners.

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1. Is Car Insurance Mandatory in Poland?

Yes. In Poland, third-party liability insurance (OC – Odpowiedzialność Cywilna) is mandatory for all vehicles. This is a legal requirement, and driving without it can result in heavy fines, car seizure, and other penalties.

The third-party liability insurance covers:

• Damage to other vehicles in an accident

• Medical expenses for injured third parties

• Legal costs related to the accident

However, this does not cover damage to your own vehicle, regardless of who is at fault.

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2. Types of Car Insurance in Poland

There are three main types of car insurance policies available in Poland:

a. OC (Odpowiedzialność Cywilna) – Third-Party Liability Insurance

• Mandatory by law

• Covers damage and injury caused to third parties

• Valid across the European Union

• Price varies based on car type, driver’s age, driving history, and location

b. AC (Autocasco) – Comprehensive Insurance

• Optional but highly recommended

• Covers your own vehicle in case of:

  • Theft

  • Vandalism

  • Fire

  • Natural disasters

  • Collision (even if it's your fault)

• Ideal for new or expensive vehicles

c. NNW (Personal Accident Insurance – Następstwa Nieszczęśliwych Wypadków)

• Optional

• Covers the driver and passengers in case of injury or death

• Can include hospital bills, rehabilitation, and compensation for permanent injuries

d. Assistance (Roadside Support)

• Optional but often bundled with AC or NNW

• Covers towing, minor roadside repairs, fuel delivery, and vehicle replacement

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3. How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Poland (2025)?

The cost of car insurance in Poland depends on several factors:

Average Costs (as of 2025):

• OC: PLN 700–1,500 per year

• OC + AC: PLN 1,500–3,500 per year

• OC + AC + NNW + Assistance: PLN 2,000–5,000+

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4. Where to Buy Car Insurance in Poland

Car insurance in Poland can be purchased through:

a. Insurance Companies

• PZU

• Warta

• Allianz

• Generali

• Compensa

b. Online Aggregators

• Rankomat.pl

• Mubi.pl

• Ubea.pl

These websites allow you to compare quotes from multiple companies and find the best deal.

c. Brokers

If you're new to Poland or not confident in your Polish language skills, working with an insurance broker can simplify the process. They can guide you, translate documents, and find customized policies.

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5. Required Documents for Car Insurance

To buy car insurance in Poland, you'll typically need:

• Vehicle registration documents (dowód rejestracyjny)

• Personal ID or passport

• PESEL number (Polish national ID number)

• Driver’s license

• Proof of no-claims bonus (from Poland or previous country)

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6. What Happens If You Don’t Have Insurance?

Driving without valid OC insurance in Poland is a serious offense. If caught, you may face:

• Fines up to PLN 8,000

• Vehicle confiscation

• Criminal liability (in severe cases)

• Being banned from driving

Also, if you're involved in an accident without insurance, you will be personally responsible for all damages — which can run into tens of thousands of złotys or more.

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7. Transferring Foreign Insurance or No-Claim Bonus

If you’re moving to Poland from another EU country or abroad, some insurers will honor your no-claims bonus, especially if you provide:

• A letter or certificate from your previous insurer (translated into Polish or English)

• Proof of continuous coverage

However, this is not guaranteed, and not all companies accept foreign history, so it’s best to check in advance.

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8. Tips for Expats and Foreign Drivers

✅ Learn the Basics of Polish Insurance Vocabulary

Knowing key terms like "OC," "AC," and "Ubezpieczenie" (insurance) will help you communicate effectively.

✅ Compare Prices

Prices vary significantly between companies, especially for expats. Use online tools or brokers.

✅ Bundle Policies

Some insurers offer discounts if you bundle car insurance with home insurance, life insurance, or multiple vehicles.

✅ Drive Cautiously

Avoid traffic violations and accidents — each incident can raise your premiums.

✅ Understand Renewal Rules

Car insurance in Poland typically renews automatically unless canceled in writing at least 1 day before the policy expires.

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9. What If You're Renting a Car?

If you’re visiting Poland and renting a car:

• Rental cars must include OC insurance by law.

• Optional insurance (like CDW or theft protection) can be added for extra safety.

• Always inspect the vehicle before driving off and take photos of any existing damage.

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10. Electric and Hybrid Cars: Are They Cheaper to Insure?

With Poland promoting eco-friendly vehicles, some insurers now offer discounts for electric and hybrid vehicles. However, the actual insurance cost depends on vehicle value, parts availability, and repair complexity.

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Conclusion

Car insurance in Poland is more than a legal necessity — it’s a safeguard for your financial and personal well-being. Whether you're a Polish citizen or a foreigner living in the country, it’s essential to choose the right type of insurance based on your needs, vehicle type, and budget.

From understanding OC to considering additional coverage like AC or NNW, this guide gives you the knowledge to make informed decisions and drive with confidence on Polish roads.