Car Rental in Poland for South Korean Travelers

Exploring Poland on four wheels can bring countless opportunities for discovery.
If you're traveling from South Korea, you might be wondering:

Can I use my South Korean driver's license in Poland?
What type of car insurance is mandatory or recommended in Poland?
What are the average car rental costs and what factors affect them?
Are cross-border rentals allowed with Polish vehicles?
What are some peculiarities or differences in Polish driving laws?

This guide equips you with all essential details for car rental services in Poland. Make sure to utilize our quick-reference table at the end for concise information.

Can South Korean Citizens Drive in Poland?

Yes, South Korean travelers can legally drive in Poland with the proper documentation. Ensure you meet the age requirements and carry the necessary driving licenses.

Form of ID:
A valid passport is required.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
or
• EU/EEA Driving License
or
• South Korea Driving License
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include Visa, Master, AMEX, and DinersClub.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be between 20 and 100 years old. Young drivers aged 20-24 incur a fee of US$ 13.91 per day, capped at US$ 180.90 for the rental. Drivers above 69 may face doubled deposits.

Ready to Rent?

Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Find the ideal car rental service for your travel needs in Poland, whether you prefer global chains for their reliability or local brands for their unique offers.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
71
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- International presence with local expertise
- Loyalty program for frequent renters
- Comprehensive insurance options
- User-friendly online booking system
Best for
Tourists and business travelers seeking reliable service
Alamo
global
8.5
Locations:
59
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Great customer service
- Wide range of vehicles
- Free additional driver
- Convenient airport locations
Best for
Leisure travelers and families
SIXT
global
8.5
Locations:
84
Prices:
$$-$$$
Key Advantages
- Competitive pricing
- Extensive fleet of premium vehicles
- User-friendly online booking
- Global presence in over 100 countries
Best for
Travelers seeking a mix of luxury and affordability
Hertz
global
8.5
Locations:
113
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Avis
global
8.5
Locations:
110
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Wide network of locations
- Flexible rental options
- Avis Preferred loyalty program
- User-friendly mobile app
Best for
Casual travelers and business needs

Flex To Go
local
8.5
Locations:
31
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Convenient locations in 10105
- Excellent customer service
- Easy online booking
- Competitive rates
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and those needing flexible rental options
Wheego
local
8.5
Locations:
13
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Specializes in electric car rentals
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent customer service
- Convenient pickup and drop-off locations
Best for
Eco-conscious travelers and budget-minded customers
CARWIZ
local
8.5
Locations:
75
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Customer-centric service
- Competitive pricing
- Convenient locations
- Easy booking process
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
KAIZEN RENT
local
8.5
Locations:
18
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized customer service
- Competitive pricing
- Variety of vehicle options
- Convenient pick-up and drop-off locations
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and locals
EXPRESS
local
8.5
Locations:
130
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- Personalized customer service
- Competitive prices
- Easy booking process
- Wide range of vehicles
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals

Recommendations for Korean Travelers in Poland

Choose Global Chains If:

You are unfamiliar with Poland's local services.
You need extensive coverage across different regions.
You prefer dedicated customer support.
Your travel involves business or formal commitments.

Choose Local Brands If:

You are looking for budget-friendly options.
You plan to stay in urban areas primarily.
You want to explore unique or specialized vehicles.
You are comfortable with app-based service systems.

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your journey more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Consider your travel group, destinations, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare various car types and policies to find the best fit for your trip.

Seating and Luggage
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
- Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
  Perfect for city driving and short trips
- Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
  Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
- Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
  Comfortable for longer distances
- Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
  Ideal for families and group travel
Transmission Type
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
- Automatic transmission
  Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in Europe
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Most travelers from Korea prefer automatic for European road trips
- Consider your comfort level with left-hand driving and manual cars
Insurance Included
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
- Basic liability
  Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
  Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
- Theft protection
  Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
- Personal insurance
  Check if your Korean insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Cancellation Policy
Understand booking flexibility and fees
- Free cancellation
  Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
- Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
  Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
- Change fees
  Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
- Travel insurance
  Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Mileage Policy
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
- Unlimited mileage
  Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
- Limited mileage
  Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
- Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
- Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Fuel Policy
Understand fuel requirements and costs
- Full-to-Full
  Return with same fuel level, most economical option
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for full tank, convenient but often more expensive
- Same-to-Same
  Return with same level as pickup, fair pricing
- Pre-purchase fuel options
  Compare costs with local gas station prices

Quick Decision Guide

City Travel
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Warsaw, Kraków, Gdańsk
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
cross-country
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Zakopane, Tatra Mountains, Baltic Coast

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

Don't settle for the first option you find. QEEQ makes it easy to compare car types, policies, and total costs from multiple providers. See all fees upfront, read real customer reviews, and choose the perfect car for your adventure.

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No hidden fees
Real customer reviews

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What Are the Popular Destinations in Poland?

Poland is known for its rich historical landmarks, vibrant cities, and scenic countryside. From exploring the cultural hubs of Krakow and Warsaw to enjoying the serene landscapes of Zakopane and the Masurian Lakes, travelers can find a variety of routes to suit their preferences.

What Insurance Do I Need?

You'll need at least basic insurance to legally drive in Poland, but for peace of mind during your travel, extra coverage is strongly recommended. Insurance rules vary, and what's included in your rental price may be minimal. Choosing the right protection can save you from high out-of-pocket costs in case of an accident or theft.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental car from collision or theft.
₩20,000-₩33,000/day
Essential
Theft Waiver (TP)
Protects against theft of the rental vehicle.
₩7,000-₩10,000/day
Essential
Liability Insurance
Covers injury or damage to others and their property.
Often included
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers.
₩7,000-₩14,000/day
Optional

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout Poland. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

US$0.00 - US$4,122.35

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

US$0.00 - US$4,407.96

Personal Accident Insurance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Tire, Window, Mirror Damage

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Roadside Assistance

Fully Covered

Not Covered

Know more About QEEQ Full Coverage

How to Save Money When Renting a Car in Poland?

Discover practical tips to make your car rental in Poland cost-effective. Timely bookings and careful planning can significantly reduce your expenses.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book in Advance
Reserve your rental car at least 2-3 weeks before your trip to secure better rates and availability.
Save up to 40% on early bookings
Compare Rental Companies
Use platforms like RentalCars.com or Kayak to compare prices and find the best deals.
Save up to 20-30% by comparing options
Choose a Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
Opt for a rental plan where you pick up and return the car with a full tank to avoid high refueling charges.
Save ₩30,000-₩50,000 on fuel costs
Avoid Airport Rentals
Rent cars from city locations instead of airports to avoid additional fees.
Save up to ₩20,000-₩40,000 in surcharges

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

Diamond Membership
Save up to 20% on every booking - free trial available below.
View Details
Price Drop Protector
If your booked car price drops, QEEQ automatically rebooks it at the lower rate and refunds the difference to you.
View Details
One-Dollar Freeze
Lock in today's price with just $1 upfront and pay the rest later.
View Details
Flexible Payments
Pay with credit/debit cards or even cryptocurrency via BitPay.
View Details

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in Poland for travelers from Korea.

Hidden Fees
Be cautious of additional charges that might not be included in the displayed rental price.
- Airport surcharges for vehicle pickup or drop-off
- Young driver fees for renters under 25 years old
- Charges for additional drivers
- Rental of extra equipment like GPS or child seats
- Toll road devices or permits
Insurance Policies
Understand the insurance options and requirements for car rentals in Poland.
- Verify if your existing insurance covers rentals abroad
- Check if credit card benefits include rental insurance
- Consider third-party insurance providers for better rates
- Understand the rental company's liability waiver terms
- Avoid purchasing unnecessary insurance at the counter
Fuel Policies
Know the fuel return procedures to avoid extra charges.
- Full-to-full policies are generally more cost-effective
- Prepaid fuel options might be more expensive
- Locate nearby gas stations for refueling before return
- Keep receipts as proof of refueling
- Ensure the tank is at the required level at return
Pre-Rental Inspection
Conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle before driving off.
- Document any existing damage with photos or videos
- Check for functionality of lights, wipers, and other essentials
- Verify the tire condition and air pressure
- Ensure the interior is clean and undamaged
- Note the fuel level and mileage accurately
Contract Terms
Carefully read the rental agreement to understand all terms and conditions.
- Be aware of mileage restrictions and associated charges
- Check for geographic limits on driving
- Understand the policy for returning vehicles late or early
- Familiarize yourself with cancellation and modification terms
- Learn about the process for reporting and handling damages
Pickup and Return Timing
Plan your pickup and return times to avoid unnecessary charges.
- Schedule pickups during business hours to avoid delays
- Allow extra time for airport car rental locations
- Be aware of charges for late return of vehicles
- Ensure you get confirmation for early returns
- Plan for travel time during high traffic periods

Remember

Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.

Traffic Rules: Differences and Similarities Between South Korea and Poland

Driving in Poland differs from South Korea in aspects such as priority rules, signage language, and alcohol limits. However, both countries share certain standards like seatbelt laws and mobile phone use restrictions.

Priority at Intersections
PL
Yield to traffic from the right unless indicated otherwise
KR
Priority given according to signage
Speed Limits
PL
Varies by road type, typically 50 km/h in urban areas
KR
Varies by road type, often 60 km/h in urban areas
Alcohol Limit
PL
0.02% BAC (strict regulation)
KR
0.05% BAC (less stringent)
Mobile Phone Use
PL
Hands-free devices only while driving
KR
Hands-free devices only while driving
Seatbelt Laws
PL
Mandatory for all passengers
KR
Mandatory for all passengers
Parking Regulations
PL
Follow signage; parking meters common in cities
KR
Parking generally follows marked areas
Remember
- • Always carry your driver’s license and rental agreement.
- • Familiarize yourself with local road signs and markings.
- • In case of minor accidents, notify authorities and your rental company.
- • Ensure your rental car has required safety equipment, such as a warning triangle and reflective vest.

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from South Korea renting a car in Poland

What essential documents do Korean travelers need to prepare when renting a car in Poland?

You must have the original passport, the original Korean driver's license, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) based on the Geneva Convention. All three documents are required.

Are there any special conditions for an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in Korea?

Yes, it must be an International Driving Permit based on the 1949 Geneva Convention and must be valid for the entire rental period.

Can I use a friend’s credit card or debit card for car rental payment and deposit?

No, you must use the main driver's own international credit card (Visa or Mastercard, embossed card). Debit cards are generally not accepted.

Is there a minimum age requirement to rent a car in Poland?

Yes, most companies require you to be at least 21 years old and have at least one year of driving experience. Luxury or larger vehicles may require a higher age.

I’m 23 years old and under 25. Can I still rent a car? Will there be additional costs?

Yes, you can rent a car, but drivers aged 21 to 24 are subject to a 'Young Driver Surcharge'.

How much is the car rental deposit (credit card pre-authorization)?

Typically, it ranges from €500 to €1500, depending on the car type and insurance options.

Does the credit card pre-authorization (deposit) actually get charged?

No, it is not a real charge but a temporary hold on your credit card limit. It will be automatically released within a few weeks after the car is returned without any issues.

The latest Korean driver's licenses are in English. Can I rent a car without an International Driving Permit?

You must carry an International Driving Permit. According to Polish law, non-EU drivers need an IDP or a certified Polish translation of their license.

I want to take turns driving with my friend. Is it possible?

Yes, it is possible. Additional drivers must be registered and there is a daily additional driver fee.

What documents are required to register an additional driver?

The additional driver must provide the same documents as the main driver: passport, national driving license, and an International Driving Permit. They must also be present at the time of vehicle collection.

Which platform is the most cost-effective and convenient for renting a car in Poland?

We highly recommend the QEEQ platform. It allows you to compare prices from various global car rental companies at once and provides support in multiple languages, including Korean, with clear insurance options.

Why should I use the QEEQ platform?

QEEQ offers price comparisons, clear insurance guidance, Korean customer support, and affordable, comprehensive super insurance options.

What is the most commonly rented car transmission type in Poland?

Manual transmission (MT) is the majority, while automatic transmission (AT) vehicles are fewer in number and more expensive.

I don’t know how to drive a manual transmission. What should I do?

Be sure to select an 'Automatic' vehicle when making your reservation. Since automatic cars are limited, it is recommended to book at least a month in advance during peak seasons.

What insurance is typically included in the rental fee?

Usually, Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection (TP) are included, but the excess amount is high.

What does 'Excess' mean? Do I have to pay it?

It means the amount you must pay in case of an accident or theft, up to a certain limit. For example, if the excess is €1000 and the repair cost is €2500, you need to pay €1000.

Should I purchase full insurance that covers the excess?

It is highly recommended. If you purchase QEEQ's super insurance, you can drive with peace of mind as your excess liability will be reduced to zero in case of an accident.

Can I drive a rented car from Poland to neighboring countries like Germany or the Czech Republic?

In most cases, you can, but you must declare 'cross-border travel' during the reservation or vehicle collection process. Extra fees (cross-border charges) may apply. Failure to declare could void your insurance.

If I rent a car in Warsaw and return it in Krakow, will there be additional costs?

Yes, this is considered 'One-way rental,' and additional charges will apply. The amount varies depending on the distance between cities and the rental company's policy.

What does the 'Full-to-Full' fuel policy mean?

If the vehicle is provided with a full tank of fuel, you must return it with a full tank. Failure to do so will result in high fuel charges and service fees.

I’m traveling with a child. Is a child car seat mandatory?

Yes, according to Polish law, children under 150cm in height must use a car seat. You can rent one for an additional fee when booking your rental car.

What if I find a cheaper price on QEEQ after making a reservation?

QEEQ offers free cancellation within a certain period, so you can cancel your existing reservation and rebook at the lower price.

What documents should I present at the airport or city rental desk?

Prepare the main driver's passport, Korean driver's license, International Driving Permit, credit card, and QEEQ reservation confirmation (either digital or printed).

What should I do if the staff doesn’t speak English well?

Show your QEEQ reservation confirmation and use Google Translate or Papago app to communicate.

What are the most important things to inspect when collecting the vehicle?

Use your smartphone to record a 360-degree video of the entire exterior of the car. Document all scratches, dents, wheel, and windshield conditions carefully.

Why is it important to take photos and videos?

To provide evidence in case any pre-existing damages are wrongly attributed to you upon return.

Are there essential items to check inside the car?

Ensure the car has a warning triangle, a first-aid kit, and reflective vests. Also, check the trunk for a spare tire and tools.

What should I check before signing the rental contract?

Verify the rental/return time and location, your name, total cost, insurance coverage/excess amount, and any additional charges to ensure they match your reservation details.

How can I tell if the car uses gasoline or diesel?

Check the contract, fuel cap, or vehicle label for 'Benzyna' (gasoline) or 'Diesel/ON' (diesel). If unsure, confirm with the staff before driving.

Can I drive off immediately after receiving the car?

Before departing, check the fuel level, adjust seat and mirror positions, and test wipers, lights, and gear settings to ensure you are familiar with everything.

Is driving in Poland the same as in Korea?

Yes, Poland follows right-hand traffic, and the driver’s seat is on the left, just like in Korea.

What are the basic speed limits in Poland?

20km/h in residential areas, 50km/h in urban areas, 90km/h on rural roads, and 140km/h on highways. Always check the road signs.

Do I need to turn on my car lights during the day in Poland?

Yes, you must keep the headlights or daytime running lights on 24/7 throughout the year.

What does the yellow diamond road sign mean?

It indicates a 'Priority Road,' meaning you have the right of way at intersections.

What does a red-bordered triangular sign with a pointed bottom mean?

It is a 'Yield' sign, indicating that you must slow down and give way to vehicles on the priority road.

How do I drive in a European roundabout?

Yield to vehicles already in the roundabout (from the left) before entering. Signal right when exiting.

How do I pay tolls on Polish highways (Autostrada)?

Some sections have toll booths where you can pay by cash/card, while others use an e-TOLL system where you must purchase an e-ticket in advance via an app/website.

How do I park and pay in city areas like Warsaw or Krakow?

In paid parking zones, use the parking machine to pay with coins/card and display the receipt on your dashboard. Parking may be free on weekends and public holidays in some areas.

Are gas stations in Poland self-service? How do I use them?

Most are self-service. Refuel, note the pump number, and pay for it inside the store with cash/card.

How do I distinguish between gasoline and diesel at gas stations?

Look for 'Benzyna' (gasoline, usually green) and 'Diesel/ON' (diesel, usually black). Mixing fuels can cause severe damage.

Can I use a smartphone navigation app while driving?

Yes, but the phone must be secured in a holder. It is illegal to hold or operate a phone while driving.

Are there any special rules for trams in city areas?

Trams have the right of way. At intersections without traffic lights, you must yield to trams.

What should I be aware of regarding pedestrians?

Vehicles must stop and give way when pedestrians are waiting or crossing at a pedestrian crossing.

What does it mean when a car behind flashes its high beams on the highway?

It is a signal that the driver wants to overtake. If you are in the passing lane, move to the right lane after overtaking.

What is the condition of rural roads in Poland?

Major roads are generally in good condition, but rural roads can be narrow, rough, or poorly lit. Drive cautiously and reduce your speed.

What should I prepare before returning the rental car?

Refuel the car at a nearby gas station and keep the receipt. Clean the car lightly and allow enough time for the return process.

What should I do if I’m involved in a car accident?

Stop in a safe place → Turn on hazard lights, wear a reflective vest, and set up the warning triangle → Check for injuries and call 112 → Take photos/videos of the scene → Notify the car rental company immediately.

How do I handle traffic violation fines, such as speeding?

For on-the-spot fines, pay immediately with a card. For automated fines, the rental company will first charge an administration fee, then send you the official fine notice. Follow their instructions to pay.

What should I do if the rental company points out new damages during the return?

Present the photos/videos you took during vehicle pickup as proof of pre-existing damages. If it’s your responsibility, you can use QEEQ super insurance to claim compensation.

What should I do if the car breaks down or stops while driving?

Stop safely, turn on hazard lights, wear a reflective vest, and contact the 24-hour roadside assistance number provided in your rental agreement or on the keyholder for help.

Still have questions？

Contact QEEQ via online chat or hotline for specific advice. Contact Support

Car Rental in Poland for South Korean Travelers

Exploring Poland on four wheels can bring countless opportunities for discovery. If you're traveling from South Korea, you might be wondering:

Can South Korean Citizens Drive in Poland?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Korean Travelers in Poland

How to Choose the Right Car?

Quick Decision Guide

Compare with Confidence on QEEQ

What Are the Popular Destinations in Poland?

What Insurance Do I Need?

Types of Insurance Coverage

QEEQ's Complete Protection Solutions

How to Save Money When Renting a Car in Poland?

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

Traffic Rules: Differences and Similarities Between South Korea and Poland

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations

Exploring Poland on four wheels can bring countless opportunities for discovery.
If you're traveling from South Korea, you might be wondering: