Rent a car to work in a taxi

The passenger transportation market in Poland is becoming more structured and demanding every year, but it also provides clear earning opportunities. If you plan to work as a taxi driver, it is essential to operate legally from day one: hold a Polish driving license, pass medical and psychological tests, obtain a criminal record certificate, and work with a proper taxi license (your own or through a partner). A properly configured profile, a compliant vehicle, and a smart work schedule will let you receive stable payouts from the first weeks — not just “nice numbers in the app.” Below is a practical guide on what to prepare, how to join Uber, Bolt, and FreeNow, and how to make your income predictable.

Taxi driver requirements: license, medical check, documents

To legally transport passengers in Poland in 2025, you need:

1. Polish driving license category B. International licenses are not accepted for taxi work. If you still hold your home-country license, you must exchange it for a Polish one at the local communication office (Urząd Dzielnicy / Urząd Miasta).
2. Medical examination and psychotests. Conducted in certified centers to confirm fitness for passenger transport. Keep originals — platforms and inspectors may request them.
3. Criminal record certificate (KRK). Valid for 30 days from issuance. Obtained at the district court as an official paper document accepted everywhere.
4. License/permit to transport passengers There are two ways:
   - to obtain your own license from the city/municipal administration at the place of business;
   - or to work through a licensed partner who already has a permit and hires drivers in compliance with the rules. In this case, you need to obtain an extract from the taxi license and a taxi driver ID from the partner.
5. Car and documents: registration certificate (Dowód rejestracyjny), valid technical inspection (Badanie techniczne), TAXI stamp, OC insurance. Also required: city-specific taxi markings and a roof sign.

Why it matters. Checks at airports and city centers are now routine: inspectors verify documents, license status, and vehicle compliance. Violations lead to fines and account blocking.

Connecting to Uber, Bolt, and FreeNow: steps and timing

The process is similar across platforms:

1. Document preparation. Check KRK validity, Polish license, results of medical & psychological tests, OC insurance, and technical inspection.
2. Profile registration. Create an account, upload clear photos of documents, a selfie, and indicate your city.
3. Vehicle verification. Photos from all sides, matching VIN/plate number. For rentals — owner’s authorization.
4. Review and activation. Verification typically takes 24–72 hours. Additional photos may be requested.
5. First ride. Check: clean interior, seat belts, chargers, GPS/apps. Prepare simple courtesy scripts — they improve ratings and tips.

Local differences. Some cities require additional taxi permits or specific markings. Always check requirements beforehand.

Car, license, rental & payouts: how to earn steadily

Car. A 4–5-door sedan/hatchback/wagon in good condition with AC and a clean interior is enough. Reduce costs: regular maintenance, correct tire pressure, smooth driving lowering fuel use by 5–10%. For hybrids/EVs — plan charging smartly.

License or partner. Your own license = more control but more paperwork. A partner handles the administration and connects you faster. Agree on commission, payout schedule, and rental conditions upfront.

Rental. Useful for beginners. Check: car model/year, maintenance rules, insurance, mileage limit, deductible, permission for taxi use. Sometimes owning a car becomes more profitable if you work 40–50 hours a week.

Payouts. Weekly transfers to a PLN bank account. Track: online hours, orders/hour, average fare, tips, fuel/energy, commissions, parking, washing, servicing, taxes.

Demand & schedule. Best periods: Friday–Sunday evenings, bad weather, big events. One peak hour = 1.5–2 regular hours.

Service & rating. Small details ensure stable income: neat appearance, clean car, polite communication, help with luggage, chargers. Check the route before starting and adjust for traffic.

Safety & compliance. Avoid “grey schemes”: other people’s accounts, mismatched cars, GPS spoofing. They lead to permanent bans. Work legally — regulations are stricter in 2025, but conditions for legal work are clearer.