Driving licence from the age of 17 – from when and what rules will apply in 2026?

The rules regarding driving licences from the age of 17 are a topic that arouses great interest among teenagers and their parents. In 2026, Poland plans to implement new regulations allowing young people to obtain a category B driving licence earlier, but under strictly defined conditions. This will not mean complete freedom behind the wheel, but rather the gradual and controlled introduction of young drivers to road traffic. The idea is based on proven solutions from Germany and Austria, where driving with a guardian allows young people to develop good habits from an early age. The introduction of this system is expected to significantly increase safety and reduce the risk of accidents involving inexperienced drivers.

Driving licence from the age of 17 – when can you apply?

When will it be possible to obtain a driving licence at the age of 17 in 2026? According to the Ministry of Infrastructure, the new regulations are to come into force in the second quarter of 2026, most likely in May or June. The change is of an implementation nature – initially, it will only apply to some provinces or examinations conducted at specific WORD centres. The aim of this model is to test the new rules in practice and gradually adapt the CEPiK system, road supervision and insurance to the new group of eligible drivers. The course can be started a few months before the 17th birthday, and the state exam can be taken at the earliest on the day of their graduation. The document will be issued on condition that a guardian is present until the person reaches the age of majority.

Driving licence from the age of 17 – what will it look like?

New rules regarding driving licences for 17-year-olds in 2026 provide for so-called conditional driving under supervision. After passing the theory and practical exams, 17-year-olds will be able to drive a passenger vehicle only in the presence of a guardian who:

• turned 25,
• has held a driving licence for at least 5 years,
• has been registered with CEPiK as the guardian of a specific driver.

Driving with a supervisor after passing the driving test at the age of 17 will be mandatory in all situations – including daily journeys, commuting to school, holiday trips and practising manoeuvres. However, it will be prohibited to carry passengers without a guardian, drive at night in certain conditions (e.g. motorways, expressways) and drive a vehicle with a power exceeding 100 HP. All this is to introduce young drivers to the reality of the road safely and responsibly.

What regulations will apply to young drivers in 2026 – obligations and restrictions

What regulations will apply to young drivers in 2026, apart from the age restriction itself? Every new driver, regardless of whether they pass their test at 17 or 18, will be subject to the 2026 young driver probationary period. This will last for 24 months from the date of issue of the document and will involve the following rules:

• compulsory participation in a refresher course on traffic safety (between 4 and 8 months after the examination),
• speed limit: 50 km/h in built-up areas, 80 km/h outside built-up areas, 100 km/h on motorways,
• prohibition on working as a driver during the probationary period,
• obligation to mark the vehicle with a green leaf,
• loss of driving privileges after two offences (e.g. using a mobile phone while driving + speeding).

The same regulations will apply to drivers aged 17 and over, with the additional requirement of a guardian being present until their 18th birthday.

Can a young driver hire a car?

Although a 17-year-old will be able to legally drive a vehicle under supervision, car rental companies will not always agree to hand over a car to a minor. In practice, this means that the reservation can be made, for example, by a parent who acts as a guardian. Travelling together with a young driver behind the wheel will then be in accordance with the regulations. Short-term car rental for a weekend or family trip is a good solution to allow a 17-year-old to practise in safe conditions, e.g. outside a large city or on less congested roads. An alternative is long-term car rental, an option often chosen by families with children. In the long run, it is cheaper and safer than buying a used vehicle with an uncertain history.

Summary – greater flexibility, greater responsibility

Driving licences from the age of 17 in 2026 open up new opportunities for young people – but also impose specific responsibilities. It is not a privilege, but a form of responsible learning about adulthood on the road. The introduction of a system of driving with a supervisor and a probationary period allows young people to gain experience in real conditions, under the supervision of a more experienced person. For families and guardians, it is an opportunity to support young drivers in their development. And for 17-year-olds themselves, it is the first serious step towards independence. It is worth planning this process carefully, including the choice of car. Regardless of whether you decide to rent a car for a short or long term, the key remains safety, predictability and compliance with the rules.

FAQ – driving licence from the age of 17 in 2026

Can a 17-year-old drive alone after passing their driving test?

No. Until the age of 18, they may only drive with a guardian registered with CEPiK.

When will the regulations come into force?

The planned date is May/June 2026, according to the schedule of the Ministry of Infrastructure.

Can a young driver hire a car?

Not as a minor. The car can be rented by a guardian who will accompany the driver aged 17+ while driving.

How long is the probationary period for young drivers in 2026?

24 months after obtaining a driving licence – with compulsory training and speed restrictions.

Is renting a car a good solution for a 17-year-old?

Yes, provided that the vehicle is rented by an adult guardian. Short-term car hire or long-term car hire are flexible options for shared use.