The Clean Transport Zone (SCT) is an increasingly important topic for every driver who regularly travels in large cities. From 2026, specific regulations will apply in Kraków and Warsaw, and more cities are planning their own zones. Check which vehicles can enter the city center without issue, and which ones will cost you a hefty fee.
BECOME A TAXI DRIVER
Work and earn right away!
What is a Clean Transport Zone?
A Clean Transport Zone (SCT) is a designated area in the city center where entry depends on the Euro emissions standard, fuel type, and year of vehicle production. The purpose of the SCT is to reduce the number of the most polluting cars and improve air quality. In practice, this means that older vehicles may have restricted or paid access to the center.
Currently in Poland, active zones operate in:
- Kraków (from January 1, 2026)
- Warsaw (phased in from July 1, 2024, with stage II effective from January 1, 2026)
Which cars will be allowed in the SCT in 2026?
Kraków – rules from January 1, 2026
In Kraków, the zone covers the area within the IV ring road. The rules are quite strict, especially for diesels.
Passenger cars and vans up to 3.5 t:
- Petrol/LPG: Euro 4 standard or produced in 2005 or later
- Diesel: Euro 6 standard or produced in 2014 or later
Trucks over 3.5 t:
- Petrol: Euro 4 or 2005+
- Diesel: Euro VI or 2012+ (passenger cars 2014+, trucks 2012+)
Important exceptions:
- Kraków residents who bought a car before June 26, 2025 are exempt from the fees
- Electric, plug-in hybrid, and hydrogen vehicles can enter without restrictions
- Classic cars with yellow plates
- Vehicles with a parking card for people with disabilities
- Technical, agricultural vehicles, ambulances, fire service, police
Warsaw – Stage II from January 1, 2026
The Warsaw SCT is being introduced in stages. From January 2026, the second stage of stricter rules will apply.
Passenger cars and vans up to 3.5 t:
- Petrol/LPG: Euro 3 standard or produced in 2000 or later
- Diesel: Euro 5 standard or produced in 2009 or later
Vehicles over 3.5 t (trucks, buses):
- Petrol: Euro III or 2000+
- Diesel: Euro V or 2008+
Important exception: Warsaw residents who pay taxes in the city have a transition period until December 31, 2027. From January 1, 2028, everyone must meet the standards.
Table: which cars will enter the CTZ in 2026?
| City | Petrol/LPG (passenger cars up to 3.5 t) | Diesel (passenger cars up to 3.5 t) |
|---|---|---|
| Krakow | Euro 4 or 2005+ | Euro 6 or 2014+ |
| Warsaw (stage II) | Euro 3 or 2000+ | Euro 5 or 2009+ |
Fees for entering the CTZ
If your car does not meet the standards, you can still enter – but for a fee. In Krakow, the following rates apply (until the end of 2028):
- Hourly fee: 2.50 PLN
- Daily fee: 5 PLN (2026), 15 PLN (2027–2028)
- Monthly subscription: 100 PLN (2026), 250 PLN (2027), 500 PLN (2028)
In Warsaw, the penalty for unauthorized entry is 500 PLN. The system uses cameras to read license plates.
Katowice and other cities – what’s next?
Katowice plans to launch the CTZ from June 29, 2026. The rules will be similar to those in Warsaw, with transitional periods for residents. Other cities (Wroclaw, Poznan, Gdansk, Lodz) are working on their own regulations.
How to check if your car can enter?
- Find the Euro standard in your registration certificate (field V.9) or on the manufacturer’s website
- Check the year of manufacture (field B in the certificate)
- Use online calculators – many websites offer free checkers
- Register your car in the CTZ system if you are entitled to an exception (e.g. Krakow resident)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to pay to enter the CTZ if I am a city resident?
It depends on the city and the date of purchase of the car. In Krakow, residents who bought a vehicle before June 26, 2025 are exempt from fees. In Warsaw, residents have a transition period until the end of 2027 – from 2028, everyone must meet the standards.
Can a hybrid car enter the zone for free?
Yes, but only plug-in hybrids (with the ability to charge from a socket) as well as fully electric and hydrogen vehicles are exempt from restrictions. Regular hybrids (e.g. Toyota Prius without plug-in) must meet the standard Euro norms.
What happens if you enter the CTZ with a car that does not meet the standards?
In Warsaw, you’ll pay a 500 PLN fine. In Krakow, you can purchase a daily, monthly, or hourly fee – if you don’t, you also risk a penalty. The camera system automatically records license plates.
Do delivery vans and company vehicles follow the same rules?
Yes, delivery vehicles up to 3.5 tons are subject to the same standards as passenger cars. Companies with fleets must therefore check each vehicle and, if necessary, purchase subscriptions or replace their fleet with newer vehicles.
Can vintage cars with yellow plates enter the LEZ?
Yes, vintage vehicles with yellow registration plates are exempt from restrictions in all active zones.
How long is the daily fee valid in Kraków?
The daily fee applies from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. If you enter the zone at 9:00 PM and leave at 11:00 PM, you still pay for the entire day.
Can I register my car in the LEZ system online?
Yes, both Kraków and Warsaw have online portals where you can register your vehicle and obtain an exemption (if eligible) or pay the fee.
When will other cities introduce the LEZ?
Katowice plans to launch on June 29, 2026. Wrocław, Poznań, Gdańsk, and Łódź are working on their own resolutions – details will be available in the coming months.
Summary
Low Emission Zones are a reality all drivers must face. If you’re planning to buy a new car, choose a model that meets the latest Euro standards. For taxi drivers, e.g., Uber and Bolt, and couriers working with popular apps, this is especially important – particularly in cities like Kraków or Warsaw. It’s worth reviewing your vehicle’s documents and determining which cars can enter legally and which require a fee or replacement.
BECOME
A TAXI DRIVER
Work and earn right away!
