Tax Guide for International Drivers

Introduction

Relocating from Global to Romania as a professional driver can be a powerful career move. Romania combines European Union market access with a relatively low cost of living, growing logistics infrastructure, and a strong demand for skilled drivers. Whether you are planning to drive heavy trucks on international routes, operate buses on intercity lines, or join last-mile delivery teams serving Romania's expanding e-commerce sector, you will also need a clear plan for how your money is taxed, saved, and invested.

This guide is designed as a practical, step-by-step resource for international drivers who want to understand their tax obligations in Romania, make the most of double taxation treaties, and structure their finances for long-term security. You will learn how EU rules affect your working time and pay, what to expect from Romanian payroll and benefits, how to validate your CPC and ADR certifications, and how to compare salaries and living costs across key cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi. By the end, you will have a roadmap to earn well, comply with the law, and keep more of what you make.

Why Romania?

Romania is a compelling destination for international drivers for several reasons:

EU membership and market access: As an EU member state, Romania offers access to a single market of more than 400 million consumers. Logistics hubs are expanding across the country, and Romanian-registered fleets regularly operate across Central, Eastern, and Western Europe.
Strong driver demand: The industry grapples with a driver shortage across Europe. Romanian firms actively recruit international drivers with C, CE, and D licenses, especially those familiar with digital tachographs and ADR rules.
Cost of living advantage: Salary-to-cost-of-living ratios are favorable, particularly outside Bucharest. Net pay packages that include base salary plus tax-advantaged daily allowances for international routes can deliver a competitive lifestyle when compared with many parts of Global.
Infrastructure growth: New motorways, logistics parks, and cross-docking facilities are continually added around Bucharest, Ploiesti, Timisoara, Cluj-Napoca, Iasi, and Constanta. The Port of Constanta and border crossings to Hungary and Bulgaria enhance international route opportunities.
Quality of life: Romania offers a mix of vibrant city life and easy access to nature. Healthcare options are improving, private clinics are widely available, and English is commonly spoken in logistics and multinational workplaces.

From a financial planning point of view, Romania also offers a relatively predictable tax system, with a flat 10 percent personal income tax and well-defined social security contributions. For many drivers, the combination of EU-route per diems, base pay, and local costs creates a solid foundation for savings.

Job Market Overview

Romania's transportation and logistics ecosystem spans long-haul international trucking, domestic freight, last-mile delivery, and passenger services. Here is where opportunities are concentrated:

International trucking routes

EU cross-border operations: Many Romanian carriers operate in Germany, Italy, France, Spain, the Netherlands, Austria, and the Nordics.
Typical cargo: Automotive parts, FMCG, electronics, industrial equipment, retail goods.
Schedules: 3 to 6 weeks on the road with rest periods in Romania or in designated EU hubs, depending on the employer.
Fleet types: Euro 6 tractors with curtainsider, refrigerated, tanker, or container trailers.

Domestic logistics and regional distribution

City hub distribution: Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi have strong regional distributions for retail and manufacturing clusters.
Warehouse-to-store routes: Frequent day trips with predictable schedules, attractive for drivers seeking regular family time.

Last-mile delivery and courier

E-commerce growth: Companies serving online marketplaces require reliable van and light truck drivers. These roles favor drivers with strong city navigation and customer service.
Employers: Sameday Courier, FAN Courier, DHL, DPD, and GLS often expand fleets and rely on seasonal drivers during peak shopping periods.

Passenger transport

Urban and intercity bus operations: Municipal operators like STB in Bucharest, and private intercity companies serve commuter and regional travel.
Airport transfers and charter services: Seasonal demand linked to tourism and events.

Tanker and ADR roles

Hazardous materials transport: Fuel, chemicals, or industrial gases require ADR certification and typically pay a premium.

Typical Romanian employers and contractors

Logistics and trucking: DSV, DB Schenker Romania, FM Logistic, KLG Europe, Aquila, Transilvania Logistic, Rompetrol Logistics, Van Moer Logistics Romania.
Courier and last-mile: FAN Courier, Sameday Courier, DHL, DPD, GLS.
Bus and passenger transport: STB Bucharest, regional operators around Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi, and airport shuttle providers.

Demand is consistent for drivers with CE licenses, Code 95 CPC, and digital tachograph experience. ADR opens higher-paying specialized roles. English skills are valued in international fleets, and Romanian basics help with daily life and depot communication.

Legal Requirements

For citizens from outside the EU and EEA, working in Romania generally requires an employer-sponsored work permit and a long-stay visa for employment, followed by a residence permit. The exact steps can vary by nationality and the employer's legal team, but the process usually follows this sequence:

Secure a job offer: Identify a Romanian employer willing to sponsor your work authorization. Many companies are experienced in hiring international drivers and can outline timelines.
Employer obtains work authorization: The employer applies to the General Inspectorate for Immigration (Inspectoratul General pentru Imigrari, IGI). You will typically provide education and experience documents, a clean criminal record, a valid passport, and medical certificates.
Apply for long-stay employment visa: Once the employer receives the work authorization, you apply for the Romanian long-stay employment visa at a Romanian consulate in your country of residence. Prepare all required documents and proof of means of support and accommodation.
Enter Romania on the employment visa: After arrival, you must apply for a residence permit. The initial permit is typically granted for the duration of the employment contract, often one year, renewable.
Apply for a residence permit: File your residence permit application with IGI within the legal timeframe specified on your visa entry. You will submit your employment contract, proof of accommodation, health insurance, and biometric data.
Obtain a tax identification and register for payroll: As an employee, your employer will register you with the tax authorities. Your residence card will contain a personal numeric code, and your employer will withhold payroll taxes and social contributions.

Important: Processing times vary, so plan multiple months ahead. You cannot work legally until the employer receives the work authorization and you receive the residence permit after entering Romania on the proper visa. Some steps can be handled in parallel by experienced employers or immigration agencies.

EU driving regulations and Romanian enforcement

Working time and rest: You must comply with Regulation 561/2006 and Directive 2002/15/EC on drivers working time. Expect enforcement by Romanian authorities on rest periods, daily and weekly driving limits, and tachograph use.
Posting and remuneration: Under the EU Mobility Package, when posted to work in certain EU countries, your pay elements must meet local remuneration rules for the time you work there. This is a company compliance issue, but it affects how your pay is structured and reported.
Romanian road transport laws: Romania enforces digital tachograph use and maintains roadside checks through the State Inspectorate for Road Transport Control (ISCTR). Fines for tachograph manipulations are severe and can affect your immigration status if repeated.

Certification and License Recognition

Your ability to drive professionally depends on having both a valid driving license for the correct category and the necessary professional certifications. The key authorities are DRPCIV for driving licenses and ARR for professional competence and tachograph cards.

Converting or validating your driving license

Check reciprocity: DRPCIV may allow direct exchange of a non-EU license if Romania has a reciprocity agreement with your issuing country. If an exchange is not available, you may need to attend a driving school and pass theory and practical exams in Romania.
Categories: Ensure your C, CE, and D categories are properly recognized. You may be asked to present a translation of your license and a certificate of authenticity from the issuing authority.
Medical checks: Professional driver categories require periodic medical examinations at authorized clinics.
Steps to exchange or test:
- Confirm whether exchange is available for your issuing country and categories.
- Prepare documents: passport, residence permit, foreign license, notarized translations, medical certificate, and passport-size photos.
- Submit your application to DRPCIV. If testing is needed, enroll in an authorized driving school.

CPC Code 95 for professional competence

Requirement: In Romania and across the EU, professional drivers must hold a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence, commonly marked as Code 95 on the license.
Training and exam: You complete initial or periodic training through an ARR-authorized center. Periodic training is typically 35 hours every five years.
Code 95 on your license: Once you pass, ARR or DRPCIV will annotate your license with Code 95 and validity dates.

ADR certification for hazardous goods

Who needs it: Drivers transporting dangerous goods by road require an ADR certificate.
Courses and exams: Take an initial course and pass an exam with an authorized center. Renewal is periodic, and specialized modules exist for tankers and specific classes of dangerous goods.
Pay impact: ADR often results in higher pay or bonuses due to the added responsibility and compliance requirements.

Digital tachograph driver card

Issuing authority: ARR issues the digital tachograph driver card for Romania.
Eligibility: You must have a valid professional license and usually a residence permit. Some employers assist with the application process.
Process:
- Prepare ID documents, residence permit, medical certificate, and a recent photo.
- Submit the application and pay the fee.
- Allow several weeks for processing. Plan ahead to ensure you can start work on schedule.

Salary and Benefits

Driver pay in Romania varies widely by route type, employer, and your certifications. Understanding how pay is structured will help you plan taxes and savings.

Typical pay structures

Base salary: A fixed monthly gross salary paid through Romanian payroll, subject to income tax and social contributions.
Travel allowances per diem: For international routes, daily allowances may be paid to cover travel expenses. Portions of these allowances can be tax-advantaged up to certain legal thresholds and conditions. The amount often depends on destination countries and company policy.
Overtime and night premiums: Romania follows rules on overtime and night shifts, with additional pay or time off.
Bonuses: Retention, safety, fuel-saving, holiday, or route-completion bonuses.
Meal vouchers: Many employers provide meal vouchers for working days, which are commonly taxed favorably compared with cash salary.
Benefits in kind: Private medical subscriptions, accident insurance, work clothing and PPE, accommodation in depots, and sometimes transport for home leave.

Salary ranges

Indicative figures for 2024 ranges are below. Your specific offer may differ by experience, language skills, and employer profile.

Domestic CE driver: Gross base salary often ranges from 5,500 to 8,500 RON per month, with net pay commonly in the 3,200 to 5,000 RON range, plus meal vouchers and occasional bonuses.
International long-haul CE driver within the EU: Total net packages commonly range from the equivalent of 8,000 to 12,000 RON per month when combining net base pay with international per diems, and can be higher with more days on the road. Some premium lanes and ADR tanker routes can push total monthly take-home into 2,000 to 3,000 EUR equivalent during intensive periods.
Bus and coach drivers: Municipal and intercity roles often pay a gross base of 4,500 to 7,500 RON, plus overtime. English-speaking coach drivers for charter or tourism can earn more during peak seasons.
ADR tanker drivers: On top of an international CE baseline, ADR premiums may add 10 to 25 percent depending on cargo class and risk.

Note on net pay: Net salary depends on contributions and your eligibility for small personal deductions. Travel allowances are subject to specific caps and documentation rules. Always request a written breakdown showing gross base, allowances, expected net, and what is taxable versus tax-free under Romanian law.

Sample pay illustrations

These simplified examples do not replace employer calculations but can help you plan.

Domestic CE driver example:
- Gross base salary: 6,500 RON
- Employee social contributions and income tax deducted via payroll
- Net salary after payroll deductions: approximately 3,800 to 4,100 RON
- Meal vouchers: 35 to 40 RON per worked day, often covering 18 to 21 days per month
- Total monthly value including vouchers: commonly 4,500 to 5,000 RON equivalent
International long-haul CE driver example:
- Gross base salary: 7,000 RON
- Net salary after payroll deductions: approximately 4,200 to 4,600 RON
- International per diems: 35 to 75 EUR per day depending on country and company policy, subject to caps and documentation
- 18 to 22 days on the road could add 630 to 1,650 EUR in allowances
- Total monthly take-home value can exceed 10,000 RON equivalent plus allowances in EUR, potentially reaching or exceeding 2,000 EUR equivalent in strong months

Employers may propose cumulative packages with both RON and EUR components. Verify what is guaranteed, what depends on days driven, and how downtime or border delays are treated.

Cost of Living in Romania

One of Romania's strengths is the ability to stretch your earnings, particularly outside the capital.

Housing

Bucharest: 1-bedroom apartment rent typically ranges from 400 to 800 EUR per month, depending on neighborhood and quality. Shared accommodation reduces costs to 250 to 450 EUR per person.
Cluj-Napoca: High student demand means 1-bedroom rentals often run 400 to 700 EUR.
Timisoara: Expect 350 to 600 EUR for a 1-bedroom near central areas.
Iasi: Often the most affordable of the four, with 1-bedroom options in the 300 to 550 EUR range.

Utilities and internet

Utilities for a 1-bedroom: 70 to 140 EUR per month, higher in winter due to heating.
Internet and mobile: Fiber internet around 8 to 15 EUR per month. Mobile plans with generous data from 7 to 15 EUR.

Groceries and dining

Monthly grocery basket for one person: 150 to 250 EUR depending on preferences.
Eating out: A mid-range meal costs 8 to 15 EUR per person; fast food 4 to 7 EUR.

Transportation

City transport monthly pass: 15 to 25 EUR depending on the city.
Fuel: Diesel prices fluctuate; plan around 1.45 to 1.70 EUR per liter equivalents.
Car maintenance: Competitive compared to many Western EU countries. Winter tires are essential for safety and compliance.

Savings potential

Drivers on international packages who keep housing costs moderate often save 500 to 1,200 EUR per month, especially if per diems are tax-advantaged and expenses on the road are controlled.

Cultural Integration

Romanian is a Romance language, and you will recognize many words if you speak Italian, Spanish, or French. English is widely used in logistics operations, especially among dispatchers and managers in international fleets. However, basic Romanian helps with police checks, fuel stations, workshops, and everyday life.

Language basics

Hello: Buna
Thank you: Multumesc
Please: Va rog
Yes: Da
No: Nu
I am a driver: Sunt sofer
I am from Global: Sunt din Global

Workplace culture

Punctuality matters: Arrive on time for shifts and loading slots. Many warehouses operate precise time windows.
Documentation first: Proof of delivery, CMR, and tachograph records must be complete and accurate.
Direct but respectful communication: Dispatchers value clear updates on route progress and delays.
Safety compliance: Wearing PPE, following ADR rules, and respecting rest periods are taken seriously.

Daily life tips

Cashless convenience: Cards are widely accepted. Mobile banking works well and is fast to set up with your residence documents.
Healthcare: Employers often provide private medical subscriptions. Register with a family doctor and understand your coverage.
Community: Expat driver communities in major hubs can be a source of tips on housing, gear, and trustworthy mechanics.

Understanding Romanian Taxes for Drivers

Taxes are central to financial planning. Romania uses a flat personal income tax rate and standardized social contributions, with special treatment for some allowances.

Income tax and social contributions

Income tax: 10 percent flat rate on taxable employment income after social contributions and any applicable personal deductions.
Employee social contributions: Pension contribution at 25 percent and health contribution at 10 percent, calculated on gross salary, typically withheld by the employer.
Employer contributions: Employers pay an additional labor insurance contribution. This does not reduce your salary but affects company cost.
Personal deductions: Limited deductions are available for low-income salaries and dependents. Amounts and thresholds change periodically.

Per diems and travel allowances

International per diems: These can be partially tax-advantaged if they comply with Romanian law and are properly documented for travel outside the country. There are caps based on statutory rules, and the tax treatment may change if allowances exceed thresholds or if you are considered posted under the EU Mobility Package.
Domestic travel allowances: These follow specific caps and documentation for tax-favored treatment.
Compliance: Keep precise travel logs, CMRs, hotel confirmations when applicable, and company-issued itineraries.

Tax residence and double taxation treaties

Tax residence: You are generally considered tax resident in Romania if you have your center of vital interests in Romania or you are physically present for more than 183 days within any period of 12 months. New arrivals complete a residency questionnaire with the tax authority to determine status.
Double taxation treaties: Romania has treaties with many countries to avoid double taxation. If you remain tax resident in Romania, foreign income from employment may still be taxable only in Romania under treaty rules, depending on your situation. If foreign tax is withheld, you may claim a credit in Romania subject to treaty limits.
183-day rule caution: The 183-day rule is not a universal tax-free pass. It applies alongside other conditions, such as whether the employer has a permanent establishment in the work country. For drivers crossing multiple borders, pay is typically processed in Romania if you are employed by a Romanian company, while posted worker rules may affect remuneration standards in certain EU states.

Annual tax filings

Employees: Most employees with only Romanian employment income have no annual filing requirement because tax is settled through payroll. However, you may need to file when your residence status changes, you have foreign income, or you claim treaty benefits or tax credits.
Self-employment: If you operate as a self-employed person, you will register with the tax office, make advance payments, and file annual returns. You may also need to track VAT if your business model requires it.

Social security coordination in the EU

A1 certificates: If you are employed in Romania and temporarily posted to work in other EU countries, your employer may obtain an A1 certificate confirming you remain insured in Romania for social security. This affects where your pension and health contributions are paid.
Health coverage abroad: Carry your health insurance documents and any A1-related paperwork. Employers commonly provide private coverage for additional protection when abroad.

Tax-Saving Strategies for International Drivers

Smart planning keeps more of your income working for you. Always validate strategies with your employer's payroll team or a qualified tax adviser.

Structure pay transparently
- Request a clear written breakdown of base salary versus per diems, bonuses, and benefits. Ensure allowances comply with Romanian caps and posting rules.
- Ask how delays, downtime, and return trips are compensated. Make sure minimum wage and overtime rules are observed.
Maximize compliant per diems
- When on international routes, ensure your employer documents travel days and destinations to support tax-advantaged per diems.
- Keep personal records of border crossings, toll receipts, and CMRs to back up your case if audited.
Use employer-provided tax-free benefits
- Meal vouchers, private medical subscriptions, and voluntary pension contributions can be provided with favorable tax treatment up to annual limits.
- Ask your employer whether they offer contributions to voluntary pensions or private health plans within non-taxable caps.
Manage residency transitions
- When you move from Global to Romania, complete the residency questionnaire promptly. If you owe tax in your home country for part of the year, use the double taxation treaty to claim credits and avoid paying twice.
- Track days spent in each country during the calendar year for accurate tax residency and income allocation.
Keep thorough records
- Maintain a digital folder with your employment contract, pay slips, ARR and DRPCIV certifications, per diem logs, toll transactions, and border stamps.
- If you have foreign tax withheld anywhere, keep those statements for credit claims in Romania.
Consider family and dependency deductions
- If eligible, register dependents to qualify for available personal deductions on low-to-moderate salaries.
Plan for retirement and emergencies
- Use the savings potential of per diems to build an emergency fund of 3 to 6 months of expenses.
- Contribute to voluntary pension schemes if your employer offers them with favorable tax treatment.
Evaluate self-employment carefully
- Some drivers consider operating as self-employed. In Romania this can trigger different social contributions and tax rules. Ensure you understand registration, advance payments, and how clients will handle your invoices before choosing this path.

Common Driving Challenges and How to Prepare Financially

Driving on the right side

Romania drives on the right. If you come from a left-hand-traffic country, plan a practice period with smaller vehicles and low-density routes before taking heavy EU runs.
Insurance: Verify that your employer's insurance covers incidents during your adaptation period.

Winter driving conditions

Weather: The Carpathian regions and northern areas can see heavy snow and ice. Winter tires are mandatory when roads are covered with snow or ice, and chains may be required on certain routes.
Budget for gear: Allocate funds for winter-grade clothing, gloves, and footwear. Employers may reimburse, but have your own high-quality gear.

Toll systems and vignette

Rovinieta: All vehicles on national roads need a vignette. Trucks use an electronic rovinieta and pay according to vehicle class and duration.
Bridges and special tolls: Certain Danube bridges and motorway segments require additional e-tickets or toll payments. Keep receipts or e-confirmations for expense claims.
Expense policy: Clarify with your employer how tolls are paid or reimbursed. Use company fuel and toll cards when provided.

EU working time directives

Compliance is non-negotiable: Record all work and rest periods with your digital tachograph. Pay elements can be impacted by legal rest time taken in the cabin versus hotel, depending on local rules.
Financial impact: Violations can lead to fines and route suspensions, affecting your monthly income. Budget a buffer so a bad month does not derail your finances.

Practical Steps to Relocate

Follow this sequence to reduce risk and downtime between arrival and your first paycheck.

Research the market and shortlist employers
- Look for companies with clear pay structures, reputable fleets, and experience hiring international drivers.
- Prioritize employers that will sponsor work permits and support license conversion and tachograph applications.
Confirm your eligibility and documentation
- Passport valid beyond one year.
- Clean criminal record from your home country.
- Evidence of driving experience and any accident-free records.
- Medical certifications relevant to professional driving.
Secure a written job offer
- Ensure the offer indicates base salary, allowances, route types, rest periods, and benefits.
- Request clarity on training time, unpaid trial periods, and probation.
Work permit and visa process
- Employer applies for work authorization at IGI.
- After approval, you apply for the long-stay employment visa at a Romanian consulate.
- Prepare to demonstrate accommodation, means of support, and valid health insurance for the visa stage.
Plan your move logistics
- Book temporary accommodation near the employer's depot or training center.
- Arrange initial cash buffers for housing deposits and setup costs.
Enter Romania and apply for the residence permit
- Register your address and biometrics with IGI.
- Expect to receive a residence card that also facilitates interactions with banks and authorities.
Open a bank account
- Most banks open accounts with a valid passport and residence permit. Salary accounts can be set in RON, with separate EUR accounts for savings.
Register for taxes and social security
- Employees are typically registered by their employer. If you have other income or need to clarify residency, contact the tax authority.
Start the license exchange or testing process if needed
- Submit documents to DRPCIV for exchange or plan for theory and practical exams if exchange is not available for your license.
Complete CPC Code 95 training and ADR if required
- Schedule periodic training with an ARR-authorized center.
- If you aim for ADR tanker roles, enroll early as slots fill quickly.
Apply for your digital tachograph driver card
- Gather documents and apply through ARR. Track processing times to avoid delays.
Familiarize yourself with employer policies
- Fuel cards, company credit cards, expense rules, and how to report breakdowns or incidents.
Prepare your personal budget
- Set aside a relocation reserve for the first 2 to 3 months.
- Plan for insurance, gear, and commuting costs to and from the depot.
Start driving and keep meticulous records
- Keep copies of CMRs, route plans, and expenses. Good documentation will protect your per diem treatment and help with any audits or disputes.

Success Tips from Other Expat Drivers

Choose employers with predictable routes: Regular lanes reduce surprises in pay and time off.
Ask about A1 coverage for postings: This keeps your social security contributions consistent in Romania.
Buy quality winter gear once: Good boots, thermal layers, and gloves pay for themselves in comfort and safety.
Keep a monthly finance tracker: Log salary, per diems, and expenses. Aim to save a fixed percentage every month.
Learn essential Romanian phrases: It eases police stops, customs, and repair shop visits.
Verify diurna policy in writing: Ensure per diems are paid on time and comply with caps to remain tax-advantaged.
Do not ignore tachograph rules: Fines can wipe out the benefit of high per diem months and may affect your immigration standing.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Romania offers a powerful combination of EU market access, competitive driver compensation structures, and a cost of living that makes long-term savings achievable. By understanding the tax framework, leveraging double taxation treaties, and documenting your travel and expenses carefully, you can keep more of every paycheck while staying fully compliant with Romanian and EU laws.

If you are ready to move from Global to Romania, start by shortlisting employers today, gather your paperwork, and map your timeline from work authorization to your tachograph driver card. With the right preparation, you can begin your first route with confidence, clarity on your taxes, and a plan to build lasting financial security.

FAQ

1) How do I avoid double taxation when I move to Romania from Global?

Use the applicable double taxation treaty between Romania and your home country. Determine your tax residence using the Romanian residency questionnaire and track your physical presence days. If you become Romanian tax resident, your Romanian employer will withhold Romanian tax. If any foreign tax is withheld during postings, you may claim a credit in Romania up to treaty limits. Keep all foreign tax statements and route logs.

2) Are international per diems tax-free in Romania?

Per diems for international travel can be tax-advantaged if they comply with Romanian rules and stay within statutory caps. Documentation is critical. Where allowances exceed caps or do not meet the documentation requirements, the excess may be taxed as salary. Posting rules under the EU Mobility Package can also affect the structure of your remuneration. Request your employer's written per diem policy and keep your own travel records.

3) Do I need to file an annual tax return as an employee?

Most employees with only Romanian employment income do not need to file an annual return because payroll handles tax and social contributions. However, file if your tax residence changed during the year, you have foreign income, you claim foreign tax credits, or you earn self-employment or rental income. When in doubt, confirm with the tax office or a tax adviser.

4) How is Romanian tax residence determined for drivers who travel a lot?

Tax residence typically depends on the center of vital interests and the number of days in Romania, usually more than 183 days in a 12-month period. Drivers often maintain a home base in Romania. Complete the residency questionnaire upon arrival or when your situation changes. Keep a log of your travel days and retain copies of tickets, border passes, or other proof of presence.

5) What happens if I drive mostly outside Romania for a Romanian company?

You usually remain on Romanian payroll and pay Romanian tax and social contributions, supported by an A1 certificate when posted to other EU countries. Pay elements may need to meet local remuneration standards during posting, but your tax residence and social insurance typically remain in Romania if you are employed by a Romanian company and meet residency criteria. Always carry your A1 and company posting documents when abroad.

6) Can I work as a self-employed driver in Romania instead of being an employee?

It is possible to operate as self-employed, but the model is complex. You would register with the tax office, make advance payments, and handle your own social contributions. Some clients prefer employees due to compliance with EU posting rules. Compare net income, administrative work, and social benefits before choosing. Most international fleets hire drivers as employees to maintain compliance and simplify cross-border operations.

7) How long does it take to get the digital tachograph driver card?

Processing times vary, but it can take several weeks from application to issuance by ARR. Apply early, ideally as soon as your residence permit is issued and your license status is confirmed. Coordinate with your employer so your training and assignment schedule aligns with card delivery.

8) Can I drive in Romania with my non-EU license while waiting for exchange?

Rules depend on reciprocity and whether you have a residence permit. Some non-EU licenses can be used for a limited period or exchanged directly; others require testing. For professional driving, Code 95 and proper license categories must be recognized in Romania. Check with DRPCIV and your employer, and avoid driving professionally until your credentials are fully valid.

9) How are fines and tolls handled financially?

Company policy varies. Tolls and vignettes are often paid via company cards. Fines due to driver error may be deducted from pay if your contract allows, but this practice has legal limits. Understand the policy before signing. Keep copies of toll receipts and use company systems for route expenses.

10) What financial safety net should I have when relocating?

Aim for an emergency fund covering 3 to 6 months of living costs. Relocation involves deposits, equipment purchases, and unpredictable first-month schedules. A safety net ensures you can handle delays in permits, training, or card issuance without incurring debt.