The state theory exam can be taken in English — but the translation has quirks. Here is the format, the scoring and a study routine that gets our students through on the first try.
Good news first: at WORD Warsaw you can take the theory test in English, German or Russian. You choose the language when booking the exam — there is no extra fee. The pass rate for English-language candidates is slightly lower than for Polish speakers, mostly because of translation quirks, not harder questions.
Test format and scoring
You sit at a computer in the exam hall and answer 32 questions in 25 minutes: 20 basic-level questions and 12 specialist questions for Category B. The maximum is 74 points and you need 68 to pass. Questions are drawn from the official question pool, so practice tests use the same material you will see on the day.
Watch out for translation quirks
- right-of-way questions sometimes use 'give way' and 'priority' interchangeably — learn the rule, not the wording
- video questions ask what you 'should do' — pick the defensive option
- 'obligatory' and 'prohibited' signs are easy to mix up in English versions of practice apps
- always read all answers before choosing; distractors are deliberately similar
A study routine that works
- learn the rules first from lectures or a handbook, then drill questions
- 20–30 minutes of practice tests daily beats one long cram session
- review every wrong answer and read the explanation
- book the exam only after three mock tests in a row above 90%
On exam day
- arrive 15 minutes early with your passport
- phones and smartwatches stay in a locker — using one means disqualification
- you have 50 seconds per specialist question; do not rush the basic ones
- if the wording confuses you, trust your preparation rather than the phrasing
If you fail
You can retake the theory test as many times as needed — each attempt costs 50 PLN. A passed theory result stays valid while you prepare for the practical exam. Read our guide on what to do after a failed WORD exam for the retake strategy.
Learn the theory in English
Our lectures run in English with Warsaw street examples, and the internal test checks your readiness before you pay WORD. See the course options and sign up online.
Learn to drive in English
Category B courses in Warsaw with English-speaking instructors, online theory and flexible lesson times.
Enroll online