The rule in one sentence
If you obtained your category before the EU introduced the professional driver qualification, you only need periodic training — the short course. If you obtained it on or after that date, you need the initial qualification — the long course with an exam.
| Category | Held before | Course |
|---|---|---|
| C, CE, C1, C1E (trucks) | 10 September 2009 | Short course |
| D, DE, D1, D1E (buses) | 10 September 2008 | Short course |
| Any of the above | obtained on or after these dates | Long course |
The short course: periodic training
Periodic training lasts 35 hours. At our partner school it runs over about five working days and does not end with an exam — you attend the training and receive the qualification.
The same 35 hours are what every professional driver in the EU completes every five years to keep Code 95 valid. So even drivers who take the long course now will meet this format later.
- 35 hours of training
- About 5 working days
- No final exam
- Topics include safe and fuel-saving driving, safety rules, driving and rest times, the tachograph, load securing and first aid
The long course: initial qualification
The initial qualification is the full training for drivers who obtained their category after the cut-off dates. EU law allows an accelerated version of 140 hours alongside the full 280-hour version. The course our partner school runs takes around 30 days and ends with an exam.
The school offers different formats for the long course, including classroom training and online theory, and in some cases a route without the final exam. Which one fits depends on your documents and situation. We confirm the exact format before you book.
- Around 30 days at the partner school
- Theory and practical elements
- Final exam (for most formats)
- Classroom or online theory, depending on the case
Check your licence within 24 hours
Send photos of your licence and passport on WhatsApp or Telegram. You get a personal reply from Silvano Müller within 24 hours.
Examples
- Example 1 — category C since 2006. Held before 10 September 2009 → short course, about 5 days.
- Example 2 — category C since 2014. After the cut-off → long course, around 30 days with exam.
- Example 3 — bus driver with category D since 2007. Before 10 September 2008 → short course.
- Example 4 — category C since 2005, CE added in 2015. The dates differ by category, so this case needs a closer look. Send us your licence.
Validity and renewal
Code 95 is valid for five years. Before it expires, you complete another 35 hours of periodic training. If it lapses, you may not drive professionally until you have renewed it — plan the renewal early, especially if you work long international trips.
Check your case
Use the course check on our home page — enter your category and issue date and you see the result immediately. Or message us with a photo of your licence; we confirm the right course with the school before you pay anything.
For the full picture — documents, costs and the route to a job — read our complete guide to Code 95 in Poland.
Frequently asked questions
My licence card is new, but I have had category C since 2007. Which course?
The first issue date of the category counts, so you would normally take the short course. We check the date on your licence to be sure.
Is there an exam after the short course?
No. The short course is periodic training without a final exam.
Can the long course be done online?
Theory can be taken online in some formats. Practical parts and any exam take place in person. We confirm the format for your case.
How long is Code 95 valid?
Five years. It is renewed with 35 hours of periodic training.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules, fees and consular requirements can change — we confirm the details for your specific case in writing.