Motorcycle helmets and licences in Poland (2026)

Last reviewed: 30 October 2026

In short: Helmets are compulsory for riders and passengers of motorcycles and mopeds in Poland. Minimum ages are 16 for category A1, 18 for A2, 20 for A after two years on A2, and 24 for direct access to A. Dipped headlights or daytime running lights must be used while driving.

RuleWhat applies
Helmet required for the riderRiding a motorcycle; MotorcycleYes [1]
Helmet required for a passengerRiding a motorcycle; MotorcycleYes [1]
Minimum age, category A1 (light motorcycle)Riding a motorcycle; Category A1 (light motorcycle)16 years [2]
Minimum age, category A2Riding a motorcycle; Category A2 (medium motorcycle)18 years [2]
Minimum age, category A (direct access)Riding a motorcycle; Category A (unrestricted motorcycle)24 years [2]
Minimum age, category A (after two years on A2)Riding a motorcycle; Category A (unrestricted motorcycle)20 years [2]
Dipped beam or daytime running light required by dayRiding a motorcycle; MotorcycleYes [1]

Notes

  • The duty covers motorcycles, quadricycles and mopeds, and does not apply to motorcycles fitted with seat belts at the factory.
  • Applies to someone who has not held category A2 for at least 2 years.
  • Applies to someone who has held category A2 for at least 2 years.
  • Drivers must use dipped headlights in normal visibility; from dawn to dusk in normal visibility, daytime running lights may be used instead.

Sources

  1. Marszałek Sejmu Rzeczypospolitej Polskiej: Obwieszczenie Marszałka Sejmu Rzeczypospolitej Polskiej z dnia 21 czerwca 2024 r. w sprawie ogłoszenia jednolitego tekstu ustawy - Prawo o ruchu drogowym (Dz.U. 2024 poz. 1251) (consulted 30 October 2026) · all sources
  2. Marszałek Sejmu Rzeczypospolitej Polskiej: Obwieszczenie Marszałka Sejmu Rzeczypospolitej Polskiej z dnia 1 września 2025 r. w sprawie ogłoszenia jednolitego tekstu ustawy o kierujących pojazdami (Dz.U. 2025 poz. 1226) (consulted 30 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.