Drivers who need glasses or contact lenses behind the wheel may face a fine of up to 500 PLN if they ignore the codes on their driving license. The most common code, 01, requires the use of vision correction, and failing to comply is treated as a traffic violation.
Polish driving licenses include specific codes that indicate mandatory conditions or restrictions for the driver. These are usually linked to health issues, most often vision problems. Every candidate for a driver’s license or anyone renewing it must pass a medical examination that includes an eye test. If a defect is found, the license will include the appropriate code.
The system of codes is detailed. Code 01 means that the driver must wear corrective lenses. Within this category, there are subcodes: 01.01 for glasses, 01.02 for contact lenses, and 01.06 for both. Ignoring the specific requirement can result in a fine. For example, a driver who has code 01.01 (glasses) but drives only with contact lenses may be penalized.
What other codes can appear on a driving license?
Besides vision correction, there are codes for other health and technical restrictions. Code 02 relates to hearing aids, 05 to driving with restrictions due to medical conditions (e.g., diabetes or epilepsy), and 10 to modified controls for disabled drivers. There are also codes for vehicle adaptations, such as automatic transmission (code 78) or special mirrors.
The fine for ignoring any of these compulsory conditions is the same: 500 PLN. Police officers can check the license during a routine stop and verify whether the driver is complying with the recorded restrictions. The penalty applies not only to vision but also to other conditions like hearing or vehicle modifications.
How to check your own driving license codes
Drivers can find the codes on the back of their plastic driving license, under the categories they are entitled to drive. The codes are listed together with the validity dates. If a driver is unsure about the meaning, they can consult the official guidelines published by the Ministry of Infrastructure or ask at a driver licensing office.
– Many drivers are not aware that a simple oversight – like forgetting glasses at home – can lead to a costly fine – explained a traffic officer from the Warsaw road safety department. – The law is clear: if the code says glasses, you must wear them every time you get behind the wheel, regardless of whether you see well without them.
The regulation aims to ensure that every driver on the road meets the minimum health standards required for safe driving. While 500 PLN is a significant amount, the main risk is the safety of the driver and others. Failing to use prescribed aids can impair reaction time and judgment, especially at night or in bad weather.
Źródło: wnp.pl, Fot. Shutterstock/FotoDax
