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OvertakingPoland

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Poland. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
Poland

35. Overtaking

Overtaking is the act of passing another road user travelling in the same direction. It normally involves moving to another position or lane, passing the slower road user and returning to the appropriate position when it is safe.

Before overtaking, a driver should make sure there is sufficient visibility and space, check mirrors and blind spots, signal when required and ensure that no other road user is already overtaking. The manoeuvre must be completed without exceeding the speed limit or endangering other road users.

No-overtaking sign in Ochojec. (Katowice, Poland)
Wikimedia.org • Michał Bulsa • CC BY-SA
On which side do drivers normally overtake in Poland?

As traffic normally keeps right, drivers ordinarily overtake on the left. This is the general rule, not permission to pass wherever a lane is available; exceptions and restrictions depend on the local law.

🔗 eli.gov.pl • Poland, Road Traffic Law — articles 16, 23–24

🔗 eli.gov.pl • Poland, traffic signs and signals — 2019/2310 consolidation, read with subsequent amendments

When should you avoid overtaking in Poland?

Do not begin if approaching traffic, restricted visibility, road markings, an intersection, a crossing or another road user makes the manoeuvre unsafe or unlawful. Check behind and ahead, allow enough space and never exceed the speed limit to complete the pass.

🔗 eli.gov.pl • Poland, Road Traffic Law — articles 16, 23–24

🔗 eli.gov.pl • Poland, traffic signs and signals — 2019/2310 consolidation, read with subsequent amendments

What extra care is needed when overtaking slower road users in Poland?

In Poland, keep at least 1 metre when overtaking a bicycle. Article 24(2) also lists cycle carts, mopeds, motorcycles, electric scooters, personal transport devices, mobility-assistance users and columns of pedestrians. Keep a safe distance from every road user and comply with the other overtaking rules. The one-metre list should not be presented as a universal fixed-distance rule for every individual pedestrian.

🔗 eli.gov.pl • Poland, Road Traffic Law — articles 16, 23–24

🔗 eli.gov.pl • Poland, traffic signs and signals — 2019/2310 consolidation, read with subsequent amendments

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