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Traffic lightsPoland

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

45. Traffic lights

Traffic lights use coloured lights, arrows or symbols to regulate when road users may proceed, must prepare to stop or must remain stopped. Separate signals may apply to particular directions, lanes, pedestrians, cyclists or public-transport vehicles.

A green light permits movement only when the route is clear and the movement is otherwise legal. Road users must still follow priority rules, turning restrictions, lane markings and instructions from authorised traffic controllers.

Traffic lights
Traffic lights at an intersection in Warsaw. (Poland)
Wikimedia.org • Rakoon • CC0
What must a driver do at red, amber and green signals in Poland?

Red and red-and-amber prohibit passing the signal. Amber also prohibits entry unless you are too close to stop without sharp braking. Green permits entry only if you can clear the junction during green and do not obstruct pedestrians or cyclists leaving the carriageway. Stop at the line or, if absent, the applicable position before the signal.

🔗 eli.gov.pl • Poland, Signs and Signals Regulation, sections 95-96,98-99

May you turn at a red traffic light in Poland?

Red alone does not permit a turn. An illuminated S-2 green arrow alongside red permits its indicated turn only after you stop and provided you do not obstruct other road users. The exception ends when the arrow goes out.

🔗 eli.gov.pl • Poland, Signs and Signals Regulation, sections 95-96,98-99

Can a green light remove the need to give way to pedestrians in Poland?

No. A green vehicle signal does not permit entry if the vehicle would obstruct pedestrians or cyclists leaving the carriageway. Allow them to clear the crossing.

🔗 eli.gov.pl • Poland, Signs and Signals Regulation, sections 95-96,98-99

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