Car Rental in Poland for Canadian Travelers

Exploring Poland with your rental car is an easy and adventurous way to discover the country’s charm and history.

Is my Canadian driver's license valid in Poland?
What additional documents are required for car rentals?
What are the typical rental costs in Poland?
Are GPS or navigation systems included?
What driving etiquette should I observe in Poland?

This guide addresses all these queries to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable driving experience while in Poland.

Can Canadian Citizens Drive in Curacao?

Yes, Canadian travelers can legally drive in Curacao with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.

Form of ID:
A valid passport is required.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP).
Notes: Please note that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter.
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Accepted cards include Visa and MasterCard.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be between 19 and 99 years old. Young drivers aged 19-22 incur a fee of US$ 7.08 per day, capped at US$ 70.81 for the rental period.

Ready to Rent?

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

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Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Choose from trusted global chains or innovative local alternatives. Each offers different advantages for Polish travelers.

Global Chain Companies

Local Brands

Europcar
global
8.5
Locations:
91
Prices:
$$
Key Advantages
- International presence with local expertise
- Loyalty program for frequent renters
- Comprehensive insurance options
- User-friendly online booking system
Best for
Tourists and business travelers seeking reliable service
Alamo
global
8.5
Locations:
71
Prices:
$$
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:
100
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:
141
Prices:
$$$
Key Advantages
- Largest fleet in USA
- Premium vehicle selection
- Gold Plus Rewards loyalty program
- Express rental counters
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Avis
global
8.5
Locations:
145
Prices:
$$
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:
33
Prices:
$-$$
Key Advantages
- Convenient locations in 10105
- Excellent customer service
- Easy online booking
- Competitive rates
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and those needing flexible rental options
Wheego
local
8.5
Locations:
19
Prices:
$$
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:
103
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:
129
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 Polish Travelers

Choose Global Chains If:

First time renting in a new region
Need reliable nationwide coverage
Value 24/7 customer support
Business or essential travel

Choose Local Brands If:

Looking for cost-effective solutions
Staying in urban areas only
Seeking unique vehicle options
Comfortable with app-based services

How to Choose the Right Car?

Choosing the right rental car can make your travel more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.

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 the USA
- Manual transmission
  Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
- Consider your familiarity with manual driving
- Automatic transmissions are prevalent in Poland for convenience
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
  Verify if your insurance policies from Canada cover car rentals in Poland
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 extensive 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 the same fuel level, most economical option
- Full-to-Empty
  Pay upfront for a full tank, convenient but often more expensive
- Same-to-Same
  Return with the 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, Krakow
Road Trip
Mid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
cross-country routes in Poland
Vacation
Convertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Zakopane, Gdansk

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.

Compare all car rental deals
No hidden fees
Real customer reviews

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What Are the Popular Destinations in Poland?

Poland offers a rich tapestry of cultural landmarks and breathtaking natural wonders. From the historic streets of Kraków to the vibrant capital of Warsaw, there's a destination for every type of traveler. Consider exploring the serene Mazury lakes or the rugged beauty of the Tatra mountains for an unforgettable experience.

What Insurance Do I Need?

Travelers renting cars in Poland (PL) from Canada (CA) should ensure they have adequate insurance coverage. While basic insurance is often included, additional coverage options are available to ensure a stress-free experience and protect against unforeseen events.

Types of Insurance Coverage

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Provides coverage for damages to the rental vehicle in case of a collision or theft.
CAD 20-35/day
Essential
Theft Protection (TP)
Offers protection against theft of the rental car.
CAD 10-15/day
Essential
Third-Party Liability Insurance (TPL)
Covers damages or injuries to third parties and their property.
Often included in the rental price
Included
Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers in case of an accident.
CAD 5-10/day
Optional
Super Collision Damage Waiver
Reduces the excess amount, providing enhanced peace of mind.
CAD 25-40/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.

Insurance Coverage Comparison

Coverage Feature

QEEQ Full Coverage

Basic Rental Company

Collision Damage Waiver

Fully Covered

$0.00 - $4,130.63

Theft Protection

Fully Covered

$0.00 - $4,390.22

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

Smart Money-Saving Tips for Car Rentals in Poland

Navigating car rentals in Poland can be cost-effective with the right approach. Canadian travelers can leverage these tips to ensure they get the best deal while avoiding unnecessary expenses.

Booking Tips for lower Prices

Book Early
Plan your car rental well in advance, ideally 4-6 weeks prior to your trip, to secure the best rates and vehicle options.
Save up to 35% compared to last-minute bookings.
Compare Rental Platforms
Utilize online comparison tools like RentalCars or Kayak to evaluate prices and find the most affordable options.
Save up to 20% or more by finding competitive offerings.
Opt for Full-to-Full Fuel Policy
Choose rental companies offering a full-to-full fuel policy to avoid expensive refueling charges. Locate nearby, cost-effective fuel stations.
Save CA$20-50 depending on fuel rates.
Avoid Airport Rentals
Explore rental locations outside airports for better deals and reduced surcharges.
Potential savings of CA$50-100 on extra fees.

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?

Key considerations to keep in mind when renting a car in Poland.

Hidden Costs
Be aware of additional fees that might not be included in the advertised price.
- Airport surcharges for car pickup
- Young driver fees if under 25
- Extra charges for additional drivers
- Optional equipment rentals (like GPS or child seats)
- Potential toll road charges
Insurance Options
Understand insurance offers and requirements to avoid overspending.
- Verify if your credit card offers rental car insurance
- Check existing travel or car insurance policies for coverage
- Opt for third-party insurance providers for better deals
- Evaluate the necessity of extra coverage based on your travel plans
Fuel Policies
Different fuel policies can impact your rental cost.
- Full-to-full policies are often cost-effective
- Avoid prepaid fuel unless necessary
- Ensure to refill at nearby stations before returning the car
- Keep receipts for proof of refuel
Vehicle Condition Inspection
Inspect the car thoroughly to avoid disputes over damage.
- Document existing damages with photos or videos
- Check tires, lights, and mirrors
- Ensure all electronics and air conditioning are functional
- Note mileage and fuel levels at pickup
Understanding the Rental Agreement
Carefully review the rental terms and conditions.
- Look for mileage limits and associated fees
- Check geographic restrictions for driving
- Understand return policies including grace periods
- Familiarize yourself with damage reporting procedures
Timing Considerations
Manage your pickup and return times efficiently.
- Plan pickups during business hours to avoid delays
- Late returns might incur additional day charges
- Airport traffic can delay the return process

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.

What Are The Differences Between US and Polish Traffic Rules

US and Polish traffic rules differ mainly in speed limits, signage units (miles vs. kilometers), alcohol tolerance (higher in the US), and right-on-red turns (more common in the US).

Right Turn on Red
PL
Allowed after full stop (unless prohibited by sign)
CA
Not allowed at red lights
School Buses
PL
Must stop when school bus has flashing red lights
CA
No special school bus rules
Highway Passing
PL
Pass on the left, slower traffic keeps right
CA
Similar, but passing on right sometimes allowed
Blood Alcohol Limit
PL
0.08% BAC (varies by state)
CA
0.02% BAC (much stricter)
Mobile Phone Use
PL
Hands-free only in most states
CA
Hands-free only
Seatbelt Laws
PL
Mandatory for all occupants in most states
CA
Mandatory for all occupants
Parking Rules
PL
Park in direction of traffic, colored curbs have meanings
CA
Can park against traffic on one-way streets
Remember
- • Traffic rules vary by state - check local laws
- • Police stops are more common - stay calm and polite
- • Keep hands visible during police interactions
- • Always carry your license and rental agreement

Voices of our customers

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions for travelers from Canada renting a car in Poland

Can I rent and drive a car in Poland with only my Canadian provincial driver’s license?

No, you must carry both your valid Canadian provincial driver’s license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) to legally drive in Poland. Both documents must be presented together.

Where can I apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Canada?

You should apply through the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) before departure. You can visit any CAA office and usually receive your IDP on the spot.

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Poland?

Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old and to have held a license for at least one year. Drivers aged 21-25 generally pay a Young Driver Surcharge.

What’s the best platform to book a rental car in Poland?

QEEQ is highly recommended. It allows you to compare rates across suppliers, offers bundled insurance packages, and provides a transparent booking process.

How far in advance should I book my rental car in Poland?

Book at least 1-2 months in advance, especially for peak tourist seasons (June-August) or holidays, to secure the best rates and vehicle selection.

Should I choose a manual or automatic car for my rental in Poland?

Manual cars are more common and cheaper in Poland. If you’re not comfortable driving a manual, ensure you specifically book an automatic, which tends to be more expensive and less available.

Do I need a credit card to rent a car in Poland?

Yes, you need a credit card in the main driver’s name for payment and security deposit purposes. Debit cards or third-party credit cards are not accepted for the deposit.

What documents do I need to present when picking up a rental car in Poland?

You need your valid passport, Canadian driver’s license, International Driving Permit, and your printed rental voucher.

Can I pick up a rental car in one Polish city and return it in another?

Yes, this is called a one-way rental. Most companies allow it but usually charge an extra fee. QEEQ lets you filter and view these fees during booking.

Will my rental car be equipped with winter tires if I travel to Poland in winter?

Between November and March, cars are typically fitted with winter tires by law, either included in the rental fee or as a mandatory extra charge.

What is usually included in the base rental price?

The base price covers the rental fee, third-party liability insurance, Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), theft protection, and local taxes (e.g., VAT).

What is Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)? Is it sufficient?

CDW reduces your financial liability for damage but leaves you with a deductible (excess), which is usually €800-€2000. It is not full coverage.

How can I reduce the excess/deductible to zero?

You can purchase Super CDW or full protection insurance, either at the counter or, more affordably, through QEEQ during booking.

Should I use my Canadian credit card’s car rental insurance?

Be cautious. Canadian credit card insurance may not cover all vehicle types or be accepted by Polish rental agencies. To avoid issues, consider insurance offered by the rental company or QEEQ.

What is a security deposit and how much is it?

The security deposit is a hold on your credit card, usually equal to or slightly above your insurance excess, ranging from €500 to €2500. It is released after you return the car in good condition.

When paying, should I choose to be charged in Canadian dollars (CAD) or Polish zloty (PLN)?

Always choose to pay in PLN. Selecting CAD triggers Dynamic Currency Conversion, which uses a poor exchange rate. Let your bank handle the conversion for better value.

What hidden fees should I watch for?

Look out for airport surcharges, after-hours pickup/return fees, extra driver fees, equipment rental (GPS, child seats), young driver fees, and one-way rental fees.

Is there a fee for adding extra drivers?

Yes, there is usually a daily charge for each additional driver. All drivers must be present at pickup and show full documentation.

How is fuel charged for rental cars in Poland?

The common and recommended policy is ‘full-to-full’: pick up and return the car with a full tank. Otherwise, you’ll pay inflated fuel and service fees.

Are Polish rental car prices inclusive of tax?

Yes, reputable platforms like QEEQ show prices inclusive of the 23% Polish VAT.

What is the airport pickup process for rental cars in Poland?

Follow signs to the ‘Car Rental’ area, queue at your provider’s desk with your documents, sign the agreement, pay or block the deposit, receive the keys and car location, and proceed to the lot to collect the vehicle.

What should I check when inspecting the car at pickup?

Carefully examine the car for scratches, dents, or other damage. Take photos or videos and ensure all pre-existing damage is noted on the inspection form.

What if I notice undisclosed damage on the car at pickup?

Immediately alert staff and have them record the damage in writing. Do not leave with the car until all issues are documented.

How do I comply with the full-to-full fuel policy?

Refuel at a nearby station before returning the car and keep the receipt. Rental staff may ask to see this as proof.

Which contract terms should I double-check before signing?

Verify your personal details, rental dates, insurance coverage, and excess amount. If you decline extras at the counter, make sure they’re not charged on the contract.

What is the car return process?

Park in the designated return area, have staff inspect the car for damage and fuel level, then finalize paperwork at the counter.

What happens if I return the car late?

Most companies allow a 29-60 minute grace period. Beyond that, you may be charged for an extra full rental day at a high rate.

Can I return a rental car after office hours?

Some locations have after-hours drop boxes. Park in the designated area, note the mileage and fuel, and deposit the keys and paperwork. You remain responsible for the car until the next business day’s inspection.

What if I forget to refuel before returning the car?

You’ll be charged a much higher rate for fuel and a refueling service fee, often two to three times the normal cost.

How long until my credit card deposit is released after returning the car?

Deposits are usually released within 5-15 business days. If it takes longer than a month, contact your bank and the rental company or QEEQ support.

Is driving in Poland on the same side as in Canada?

Yes, both countries drive on the right, with the steering wheel on the left.

What are the standard speed limits in Poland?

Unless otherwise posted: 50 km/h in built-up areas, 90 km/h outside built-up areas, 100 km/h on dual carriageways, 120 km/h on expressways, and 140 km/h on motorways.

What key traffic rules differ from Canada in Poland?

Highlights: Daytime running lights must always be on; the blood alcohol limit is just 0.02%; pedestrians have absolute right of way at crossings; trams generally have priority.

How do roundabouts work in Poland?

Yield to vehicles already in the roundabout. Drive in the correct lane and signal right when exiting, similar to Canadian rules.

How are Polish highways tolled?

Poland uses a mix of manual toll booths and the e-TOLL system. For e-TOLL, register online or via app, or buy an e-ticket at select gas stations. Confirm with your rental company how tolls are managed for your vehicle.

What are the parking rules in Polish cities?

Most city centers are paid parking zones. Buy a ticket at a meter (parkomat) and display it on your dashboard. Fees usually apply on weekdays during business hours.

How do I identify the correct fuel for my rental car?

Gasoline is labeled ‘Pb 95’ or ‘Pb 98’ (green nozzle); diesel is ‘ON’ (black nozzle). Confirm your car’s fuel type at pickup—misfuelling causes severe damage.

Are there special driving etiquettes in Poland?

Keep left lane for overtaking only; return to the right after passing. If flashed by following cars, move aside. On rural roads, locals may briefly use the shoulder to let you pass.

What mandatory equipment must be in the car?

Every car must have a warning triangle and a fire extinguisher. Check these are present during pickup.

How should I react to emergency vehicles in Poland?

Pull over safely to the right to let them pass. On multi-lane roads, create a ‘corridor of life’ by moving left or right as appropriate.

Can I drive a Polish rental car to neighboring countries?

Usually yes, within the EU (like Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia), sometimes for a cross-border fee. Travel to non-EU countries is often prohibited. Always confirm allowed countries at booking or pickup.

What’s the best navigation option when driving in Poland?

Use smartphone apps like Google Maps or Waze. Bring a car mount and ensure you have mobile data.

What are Poland’s child seat laws?

Children under 150 cm must use an appropriate car seat or booster. Reserve these in advance through QEEQ to ensure availability.

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

Ensure safety, activate hazard lights, place a warning triangle, call 112 for emergency services, obtain a police report if there are injuries/damage, exchange information, and contact the rental company’s emergency line.

What if my rental car breaks down or gets a flat tire?

Call the rental company’s roadside assistance line—found on the windshield, contract, or key tag. Do not attempt repairs yourself.

What is Poland’s emergency services phone number?

Dial 112 for police, fire, or medical emergencies. This is the EU-wide emergency number.

How do I handle traffic tickets received while renting in Poland?

On-the-spot tickets must be paid immediately, usually by cash or card. For mailed tickets (e.g., speed cameras), the rental company will charge your credit card plus an administrative fee.

Are there many speed cameras in Poland?

Yes, they are widespread. Apps like Waze or Google Maps warn of cameras, but the best practice is always obeying speed limits.

Any tips for driving in large Polish cities like Warsaw or Kraków?

Avoid driving into city centers during rush hours; streets are narrow and parking is scarce and costly. Use Park & Ride facilities and switch to public transport to visit main attractions.

Should I use my Canadian roaming or buy a local SIM card in Poland?

Buying a local prepaid SIM card is usually much cheaper and provides ample data for navigation and browsing. SIM cards are available at airports, convenience stores, and telecom shops.

Still have questions？

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

Car Rental in Poland for Canadian Travelers

Exploring Poland with your rental car is an easy and adventurous way to discover the country’s charm and history.

Can Canadian Citizens Drive in Curacao?

Ready to Rent?

Which Car Rental Companies Are Best?

Recommendations for Polish Travelers

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

Smart Money-Saving Tips for Car Rentals in Poland

Booking Tips for lower Prices

QEEQ's Money-Saving Features

What Should You Pay Attention To?

Remember

What Are The Differences Between US and Polish Traffic Rules

Remember

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Popular Destinations