Authorisation to drive someone else's vehicle (Poland)

Published byDocMuse

A car owner's authorisation for another person to drive it for a set time and in a set territory — for a trip abroad, or when lending the car to family or an employee. It gives both people's details, the vehicle, the OC policy, what is authorised, and states plainly that selling or passing the car on is not. There is room below the signature for notarisation, which some non-EU countries require.

Preview

This document is produced for you. Your answers are typed into it and the finished PDF is yours to keep.

Common questions

Does driving someone else's car in Poland require written authorisation?

No rule requires it — the driver needs a valid licence, and the car needs OC insurance, which covers any driver. Since 1 October 2018 there is also no need to carry the registration certificate or the policy, as the police check them in the central vehicle register. An authorisation still helps prove the car is used with the owner's consent, and leasing and rental companies often require one.

Does an authorisation to drive abroad need a notarised signature?

Within the EU usually not, although police or border guards may ask for proof that the car is used lawfully. Some non-EU countries require an authorisation with a notarised signature for entering in someone else's car, sometimes with a translation or apostille — check with that country's consulate before travelling. A leased car also needs the leasing company's consent.

Who is liable for fines or damage while an authorised person drives?

The driver is liable for offences. Damage to others is covered by the car's OC insurance, which covers any driver, and damage to the car itself by comprehensive cover under its terms. When a speed camera records an offence, the owner must, on request, name who was driving the car at the time (art. 78(4) of the Road Traffic Act) — an authorisation with dates makes that easy to show.