A new era for autonomous vehicle testing in Poland has begun. On June 24, 2026, the Institute of Road Transport (ITS) officially became the National Coordinator of Research Works (KKPB) – a state body responsible for overseeing tests of automated and fully automated vehicles on public roads. This marks the first comprehensive control and harmonization system for autonomous mobility research in the country, based on regulations adopted in late 2025.
The KKPB, led by the director of ITS under the supervision of the Minister of Transport, is tasked with issuing permits, maintaining a public register, checking compliance, and cooperating with foreign oversight bodies on cross-border projects. Each test vehicle must be equipped with audio-video recorders, undergo a risk analysis according to ISO 26262, and submit a declaration of no threat to road safety. Permits are valid for up to three years and cover a maximum of five voivodeships.
According to ITS analyses, autonomous vehicles could significantly improve road safety, as human error is a decisive factor in about 90% of accidents. Intelligent systems could reduce the number of incidents by up to 30% – in Poland, that means several thousand fewer crashes each year. The new system also aims to boost transport efficiency, reduce congestion, and improve mobility for the elderly and people with disabilities.
How the new supervisory system works
The procedure for obtaining a permit is strictly defined. Applicants must provide a risk analysis, install recording devices, and pay an administrative fee. The KKPB assigns observers, evaluates risk assessments, and immediately reports any road incident involving a test vehicle to the relevant authorities, along with audio-video recordings. – Our goal is to ensure the most transparent and applicant-friendly process possible for obtaining permits to conduct research works – said Aneta Gierszewska, a member of the team supporting the KKPB. – We place particular emphasis on high-quality service and the efficiency of administrative proceedings, while fully maintaining the standards resulting from legal regulations.
The KKPB also plays an international role as a national contact point for foreign coordinators, enabling cross-border research under European regulations. – The new system allows for the ordering and professionalization of autonomous vehicle tests. It is not just an administrative role. It is a real tool for quality control, risk analysis, and international cooperation – explained Dr. Mikołaj Kruszewski, also from the KKPB support team. – Polish companies and universities can now conduct research at a level comparable to the largest centers in Europe.
International cooperation and economic impact
Poland is simultaneously developing research projects such as DARTS PL, a national database of test scenarios and sensory data created by ITS and the Warsaw University of Technology for the Ministry of Infrastructure. This project aims to provide unique data from Polish road conditions, essential for training artificial intelligence algorithms and developing automated driving systems. – National Coordination of Research Works is the foundation for the safe development of autonomous mobility in Poland – emphasized Prof. Marcin Ślęzak, director of ITS. – Thanks to clear procedures and state supervision, we can conduct research responsibly while supporting innovations that will realistically improve transport safety and efficiency.
The creation of the KKPB is also an economic stimulus, especially given the growing shortage of professional drivers in Poland, estimated at around 200,000 people. Autonomous vehicles are seen as a way to address this gap while improving overall logistics performance. The new framework positions Poland as an active player in the European autonomous vehicle landscape.
Źródło: wnp.pl, Fot. Aliaksei Kaponia / Shutterstock
