Creating Safety Networks with Fellow Drivers

Introduction

Relocating from abroad to Romania as a professional driver is about more than finding a new job. It is about staying safe on the road, navigating new regulations, building trust with employers, and creating a dependable network of fellow drivers who have your back when it matters. Romania, an EU member state strategically placed between Central and Eastern Europe, is experiencing strong growth in logistics, e-commerce, and international transport. That makes it an attractive destination for drivers with C, CE, and D licenses who want competitive EU salaries alongside a lower cost of living.

This guide focuses on driver safety and security while also giving you a clear roadmap to relocate, certify, and find work in Romania. We will show you how to build practical safety networks with other drivers, understand EU and Romanian transport laws, convert your licenses and certifications (CPC, ADR, tachograph), and integrate into Romanian life. Whether you want long-haul trucking to Western Europe, container drayage from Port of Constanta, last-mile delivery in Bucharest, or city bus driving in Cluj-Napoca, this guide gives you actionable steps to succeed and stay safe.

Why Romania?

Choosing Romania as your base brings a unique mix of opportunity and lifestyle benefits:

• EU Membership and Market Access: Romania is in the European Union, which means Romanian-based drivers have access to EU-compliant employment, standardized certifications such as the CPC, and routes across the European market. Many Romanian trucking companies run frequent routes to Hungary, Austria, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain.
• Competitive Pay vs. Cost of Living: Wages for international HGV drivers in Romania are competitive within Eastern Europe, especially when combined with tax-advantaged per diem allowances for international trips. Daily expenses and rent remain lower than in many Western European countries.
• Logistics Growth: Romania has major logistics hubs near Bucharest and important border corridors in Timisoara and Arad, as well as the Port of Constanta for container traffic and grain exports. E-commerce and retail distribution continue to expand, fueling demand for delivery drivers.
• Quality of Life: Urban centers like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi offer modern amenities, international airports, good internet, and an emerging expat scene. Proximity to mountains and the Black Sea makes time off rewarding.
• Driver Demand: Romanian employers consistently recruit both local and international drivers, especially CE licensed drivers with valid CPC and ADR. Many companies sponsor work permits for qualified candidates from outside the EU.

Job Market Overview

Romania's transportation and logistics sector covers a broad spectrum of roles. The most common job categories for professional drivers include:

1) Long-Haul International Trucking (CE)

• Routes: Romania to Central and Western Europe (Hungary, Austria, Germany, Italy, Czech Republic, Netherlands). Some companies also run to Scandinavia, UK (via ferries), and Spain/Portugal.
• Freight: General cargo, automotive components, retail goods, refrigerated cargo, containers, and increasingly e-commerce pallets.
• Employer types: Medium and large Romanian trucking firms, multinational logistics integrators, and subcontractors for major brands.
• Typical hubs: Bucharest/Ilfov, Timisoara, Arad, Oradea, Brasov, Sibiu, Pitesti.

2) Regional and Domestic Trucking (C/CE)

• Routes: Within Romania, often linking warehouses and retail centers between Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, Iasi, Constanta, Brasov, and Ploiesti.
• Freight: FMCG, construction materials, agricultural produce, and intermodal drayage from rail terminals.
• Employer types: National retailers, 3PL providers, construction suppliers, and distributors.

3) Tanker, Fuel, and Hazardous Goods (ADR)

• Roles: Drivers with ADR certificates (basic and, often, tanks) are in demand for fuel distribution and chemical logistics.
• Safety: Requires higher safety training, strong incident reporting, and strict compliance with ADR regulations.

4) Container and Port Operations (CE)

• Region: Port of Constanta and inland terminals near Bucharest (A1/A2 corridors).
• Work Pattern: Short-haul runs, day shifts, and predictable schedules compared to long-haul.

5) Last-Mile Delivery and Urban Distribution (B/C)

• Vehicles: Vans and medium trucks.
• Cities: Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, Iasi.
• Employers: Parcel networks, e-commerce platforms, and courier companies.

6) Passenger Transport (D)

• Roles: City bus drivers, intercity coach drivers, airport shuttles.
• Employers: Municipal operators (e.g., STB in Bucharest, CTP Cluj-Napoca, STPT Timisoara, CTP Iasi), private bus companies, and airport transfer providers.

Examples of Employers in Romania

• Multinational logistics and 3PLs: DB Schenker, DSV, Kuehne+Nagel, Raben, Gebruder Weiss, FM Logistic, Yusen Logistics.
• Romanian trucking and distribution companies: Aquila, International Alexander, Dumagas, Sameday (for e-commerce logistics), Fan Courier, Cargus.
• Passenger transport: STB (Bucharest), CTP Cluj-Napoca, STPT Timisoara, CTP Iasi, plus private intercity operators.

Note: Company names are provided as examples only. Always verify current openings, safety records, and employment conditions before you sign.

Creating Safety Networks with Fellow Drivers

Your safety network is the informal yet powerful web of people, channels, and routines that keep you safe, informed, and supported. In a new country, this network reduces risk, speeds up problem-solving, and helps you feel confident on every shift.

Why Safety Networks Matter

• Faster help in emergencies or breakdowns.
• Real-time updates on traffic, weather, and road closures.
• Shared knowledge about safe parking, reliable fuel stops, and secure rest areas.
• Support when dealing with border formalities, toll systems, and company-specific procedures.
• Community and mental well-being during long periods away from home.

Build Your Network Before You Arrive

• Join Romanian and EU driver groups on social media: Search for keywords like "soferi profesionisti Romania", "HGV Romania", "ADR Romania", and city-specific groups.
• Connect with recruiters and trainers: Introduce yourself to Romanian CPC and ADR training centers. Ask about alumni groups or class forums.
• Set up your comms: Prepare WhatsApp, Viber, Telegram, and Zello. Many fleets use WhatsApp broadcast lists for route notes and urgent alerts.
• CB Radio: In much of Europe, CB channel 19 is the default for truckers. Keep a simple script for calling out hazards in English or, when possible, in basic Romanian.

On-the-Ground Safety Circles

• Buddy System: Pair with at least one colleague on similar routes. Agree on check-in times (for example, every 4 hours and at start/end of rest periods).
• Cluster by City: If you are based in Bucharest or Cluj-Napoca, create city hubs for meetups, document checks, and pre-trip briefings.
• Specialty Subgroups: ADR drivers, reefer drivers, and container haulers should create niche chat groups to exchange compliance tips and incident learnings.

Practical Protocols to Adopt

• Standard Check-In: Use a simple checklist message: "Check-in: Km 430 A1, ETA 18:45, fuel 40%, rest due 2h, all safe."
• Hazard Callouts: Share succinct alerts: "Black ice DN1 near Predeal, 2 km queue southbound, reduce speed." Always include route and direction.
• Parking Intelligence: Map and rate parking zones based on fencing, CCTV, lighting, and facilities. Keep a shared doc with do-not-park areas.
• Convoy Rules: When convoying, maintain safe distance, avoid blocking lanes, agree on merge etiquette, and cancel convoy if weather worsens.
• Evidence and Documentation: Encourage use of dashcams. If there is an incident, share steps in the group for safe handling: secure area, call 112, document with photos, log tachograph events.

Tools and Apps for Romania

• Waze and Google Maps for live traffic and police advisories.
• 112 Romania app for emergency location sharing; 112 is the national emergency number.
• INFOTRAFIC updates from the Romanian Police for official traffic alerts.
• CNAIR road status portal for national roads and winter closures.
• Weather and road camera apps for mountain passes.

Where to Meet and How to Spot Safe Facilities

• Motorways A1/A2/A3 and European corridors E68/E81/E85 offer service areas with fuel, showers, and dining. Look for well-lit, fenced truck parks with cameras.
• Major fuel networks: OMV, MOL, Rompetrol, Petrom - many stations on main corridors offer decent amenities.
• Near borders (Nadlac, Bors, Giurgiu) and around logistics clusters near Bucharest and Timisoara, drivers often coordinate meetups before long legs.

Security Best Practices in Groups

• Verify newcomers to chat groups and avoid over-sharing personal documents.
• Use a group rule: do not post live locations publicly; share location only within a trusted list during emergencies.
• Use code phrases for quick distress signals when typing is limited: "Check-in red" could mean urgent assistance needed.

A strong safety network is not a substitute for compliance. It amplifies your safety by keeping information flowing and support close at hand.

Legal Requirements for Global Citizens

If you are not an EU/EEA or Swiss citizen, you generally need employer sponsorship to work as a professional driver in Romania. The process typically includes:

1) Employer Work Authorization

• Your Romanian employer applies for a work permit with the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI). They must show the role, your qualifications, and that they can hire a non-EU candidate.
• Expect to provide: passport copies, proof of qualifications (licenses, CPC, ADR), a clean criminal record, and possibly a medical certificate.

2) Long-Stay Employment Visa (Type D/AM)

• After the work permit is approved, you apply for a long-stay employment visa (type D/AM) at a Romanian consulate in your country or region.
• You will submit the work permit, passport, proof of accommodation or invitation, medical insurance, and financial means as required by the consulate.

3) Entry to Romania and Residence Permit

• Travel to Romania once your visa is issued. Within the validity of your visa, finalize your employment contract and apply for a residence permit for work (single permit) with IGI.
• Documents usually include: employment contract, passport, photos, proof of accommodation, medical insurance, and proof of fees paid.

4) Family Reunification (Optional)

• Once you hold a valid residence permit for work, you may sponsor eligible family members under Romanian rules, subject to additional documentation and timelines.

Important notes:

• Romania is an EU member. Schengen travel rules for Romania have been evolving; air and sea border checks have eased, while land border checks may still apply. Visa requirements for work remain unchanged: you need the D/AM visa followed by a residence permit.
• Always confirm current requirements on official Romanian government websites or with the Romanian consulate before starting the process.

Certification and License Recognition

To work legally as a professional driver in Romania, you must ensure your driving license and professional certifications are valid for EU use.

Driving License Categories

• C: Rigid trucks over 3.5 tons
• CE: Articulated vehicles and tractor-trailer combinations
• D: Passenger buses and coaches
• B: Vans and cars (last-mile delivery roles)

Converting or Recognizing Your License

• EU/EEA/Swiss license holders: Generally straightforward recognition or exchange through DRPCIV (the Romanian authority for driver licenses and vehicle registration).
• Non-EU license holders: You may need to exchange your license to a Romanian one. Some countries have bilateral agreements with Romania; others may require testing. Professional use often requires the EU Code 95 (CPC) on the license, which means you need a recognized CPC.
• Action step: Contact DRPCIV in your target city (Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, Iasi) to confirm the exchange requirements for your country.

CPC - Certificate of Professional Competence (Code 95)

• EU Requirement: All professional truck and bus drivers in the EU must hold CPC. It is evidenced by Code 95 on your license or a Driver Qualification Card.
• Initial Qualification: If you are new to EU professional driving, you may need initial CPC training (140 or 280 hours) and an exam at an authorized center.
• Periodic Training: 35 hours of CPC training every 5 years to maintain Code 95.
• Romania: CPC training is offered widely. Your employer may sponsor periodic CPC courses when onboarding international drivers.

Digital Tachograph Driver Card

• EU tachograph rules require a driver card for vehicles equipped with a digital tachograph.
• In Romania, driver cards are issued by the competent authority; you will typically apply through authorized channels with your ID/residence permit, license, and a photo.
• Action step: Apply soon after you sign your contract, as card issuance can take days to weeks.

ADR - Transport of Dangerous Goods

• ADR Certification: Required for drivers transporting dangerous goods. The basic course is mandatory, with add-on modules for tanks and special classes.
• Validity: Generally 5 years, with refresher courses needed before expiry.
• Romania: ADR training is available in major cities. Employers dealing with fuel, chemicals, and medical supplies often prefer or require ADR.

Additional Training and Documents

• Medical and Psychological Fitness: Romanian law requires periodic medical and psychological evaluations for professional drivers.
• Company Induction: Expect internal safety training, SSM (workplace safety) briefings, and equipment familiarization.

EU Driving and Working Time Rules You Must Know

Working in Romania means full compliance with EU and Romanian laws. The core EU regulations include:

• Reg. 561/2006 (Driving Times and Rest):
  • Daily driving limit: 9 hours (can be extended to 10 hours twice a week).
  • Weekly driving limit: 56 hours; fortnightly limit: 90 hours.
  • Breaks: After 4.5 hours of driving, take at least a 45-minute break (can be split into 15 + 30 minutes).
  • Daily rest: Normally 11 hours (reducible to 9 hours a limited number of times).
  • Weekly rest: Regular 45 hours; reduced weekly rest allowed with compensation rules.
• Reg. 165/2014 (Tachographs): Use your driver card correctly, ensure manual entries are accurate, and keep printouts when required.
• Working Time Directive 2002/15/EC: Limits total working time and mandates rest periods for mobile workers.
• Mobility Package Updates: For international transport, you may have obligations like returning to base periodically and restrictions on taking regular weekly rests in the vehicle. Your employer should brief you on how these apply to your routes.

Romanian Road Code specifics for heavy vehicles typically include:

• Speed limits for vehicles over 3.5t: about 90 km/h on motorways, 80 km/h on express/national roads outside localities, and 50 km/h within localities unless posted otherwise.
• Headlights: Many drivers use dipped headlights at all times; outside localities, this is commonly required.
• Winter equipment: Winter tires are mandatory when roads are covered with snow/ice. Chains may be required on certain routes for heavy vehicles.

Always follow the most current legal texts and your company's procedures. Non-compliance can lead to fines for both you and your employer and can jeopardize your residence status.

Salary and Benefits

Pay in Romania depends on role, experience, route type, and certifications. Figures below are realistic estimates; always verify with the employer and clarify whether amounts are gross or net.

Assumed exchange: 1 EUR ≈ 5.0 RON (rounded for simplicity).

International Long-Haul (CE)

• Net monthly total: 1,800 - 2,800 EUR (9,000 - 14,000 RON). Some specialized routes and strong experience can push higher.
• Structure: A base salary in RON plus daily allowances (per diem) for days spent abroad, which may be tax-advantaged.
• Bonuses: On-time delivery, fuel efficiency, safe driving, ADR premiums.

Domestic and Regional Trucking (C/CE)

• Net monthly: 5,000 - 8,500 RON (1,000 - 1,700 EUR), depending on schedule intensity and overtime.

ADR Tanker/Fuel Roles

• Net monthly: 2,000 - 3,200 EUR equivalent when international; domestic ADR roles often sit at the upper end of domestic pay bands due to risk and regulation.

City Bus Driver (D)

• Net monthly: 4,500 - 7,500 RON (900 - 1,500 EUR), with overtime and weekend differentials.

Last-Mile Delivery (B/C)

• Net monthly: 3,500 - 6,000 RON (700 - 1,200 EUR), performance-based pay common.

Benefits to Clarify in Your Contract

• Per diem policy and payment schedule
• Overtime and night shift premiums
• Rest day compensation, weekend/holiday rates
• Private health insurance top-ups
• Accommodation during training and between tours
• Safe parking reimbursement and toll coverage
• Uniforms, PPE, winter equipment, and allowance for work gear

Tip: Ask for a pay stub sample to see how base salary and per diem are itemized.

Cost of Living in Romanian Cities

Romania's cost of living is favorable compared to Western Europe. Below are typical monthly costs for a single person. Prices vary by city and season.

Housing

• Bucharest: 1-bedroom apartment 400 - 650 EUR; shared rooms 250 - 400 EUR.
• Cluj-Napoca: 350 - 600 EUR.
• Timisoara: 300 - 500 EUR.
• Iasi: 300 - 450 EUR.

Utilities and Internet

• Utilities (electricity, heating, water, trash): 80 - 150 EUR depending on season.
• Internet/mobile package: 7 - 20 EUR with strong 4G/5G coverage.

Food and Daily Expenses

• Groceries: 150 - 250 EUR per month (budget-conscious cooking).
• Eating out: 6 - 12 EUR for a casual meal; 2 - 3 EUR for coffee.

Transportation

• Public transport pass: 15 - 20 EUR in major cities.
• Fuel: Generally around 1.3 - 1.5 EUR per liter equivalent (varies with market conditions).
• Tolls: Companies typically pay rovinieta (road vignette) and specific tolls for bridges or motorways when you are on duty.

Sample Monthly Budget - Bucharest (Mid-Range)

• Rent: 550 EUR
• Utilities: 120 EUR
• Internet/Mobile: 15 EUR
• Groceries: 220 EUR
• Eating out and incidentals: 150 EUR
• Public transport: 18 EUR
• Total: ~1,073 EUR

If you earn 1,800 - 2,800 EUR net in international trucking, this leaves a comfortable margin for savings or family support.

Cultural Integration and Communication

A smooth cultural transition makes work safer and more satisfying.

Language Basics

English is widely used in logistics, but basic Romanian helps with road police, fueling, loading docks, and customer sites. A few phrases:

• Buna - Hello
• Multumesc - Thank you
• Va rog - Please
• Stanga/Dreapta - Left/Right
• Inainte/Inapoi - Forward/Backward
• Liber/ocupat - Free/occupied (for bays)
• Acte - Documents
• Factura/aviz - Invoice/dispatch note

Learn radio and yard vocabulary early. Keep a bilingual glossary on your phone.

Workplace Culture

• Punctuality and Documentation: Being on time and having papers in order is crucial. Keep documents organized and ready for inspections.
• Hierarchy with Approachability: Dispatchers and supervisors expect clear communication; they also appreciate proactive safety reporting.
• Safety Culture: Romanian companies steadily invest in compliance. If something feels unsafe, raise it. Document everything.

Off-Duty Life

• Community: Look for expat driver groups and international meetups in Bucharest, Cluj, and Timisoara.
• Healthcare: Register with a family doctor once you have a residence permit. Private clinics offer faster appointments for a fee.

Common Driving Challenges in Romania and How to Prepare

Right-Side Driving and Urban Traffic

• If you come from a left-side driving country, book a few practice sessions before starting work. Start with low-traffic zones and depot yards.
• Bucharest has heavy peak-hour traffic. Plan routes to avoid central zones when possible.

Winter Conditions and Mountain Passes

• Carpathian routes can see snow, black ice, and fog. Equip winter tires and carry chains where required.
• Check official road status for DN1 (Prahova Valley), DN7 (Olt Valley), and closures like Transfagarasan (DN7C) in winter.
• Adopt winter driving protocols: longer following distances, gentle braking and acceleration, and pre-heating diesel systems.

Tolls, Vignettes, and Bridges

• Rovinieta: Electronic road vignette required for using national roads; heavy vehicles have specific categories. Your company usually manages this.
• Bridges: Some Danube and motorway bridges charge tolls, payable online or at service stations.

Road Hazards

• Expect occasional horse-drawn carts on rural roads, agricultural machinery, stray animals, and pedestrians crossing unexpectedly in villages.
• Use dipped headlights outside localities and maintain cautious speeds in mixed-traffic zones.

Practical Steps to Relocate

Follow this step-by-step plan to move from intention to ignition in Romania.

Step 1: Assess Your Profile and Goals

• License categories: Do you hold C, CE, or D?
• Add-ons: ADR certification, CPC status, tachograph experience.
• Route preference: International long-haul vs. local or regional.
• Family considerations: Schooling, housing, and support.

Step 2: Gather Documents

• Passport valid for at least 12 months
• Driving license and international driving permit (if applicable)
• CPC certificate or training records
• ADR certificate and course modules
• Employment references and clean criminal record
• Medical certificate and any vaccination records
• Education and training certificates (translated to English or Romanian as required)

Step 3: Engage Employers and Recruiters

• Target companies by city hub: Bucharest/Ilfov, Timisoara, Arad, Oradea, Brasov, Iasi, Constanta.
• Prepare a driver-focused CV: highlight routes, vehicle types, fuel efficiency, safety awards, and incident-free kilometers.
• Ask about sponsorship for work permit and visa D/AM, plus any relocation assistance.

Step 4: Confirm Legal Pathway

• Ensure the employer will file for your work authorization.
• Once approved, apply for the D/AM long-stay visa at the Romanian consulate.
• Verify processing times and required originals vs. notarized copies.

Step 5: Plan Arrival and Temporary Housing

• Book arrival into Bucharest, Timisoara, Cluj-Napoca, or Iasi depending on job location.
• Reserve 2-4 weeks of temporary accommodation to handle onboarding, medicals, and residence permit formalities.

Step 6: Onboarding in Romania

• Sign employment contract and register with IGI for your residence permit.
• Undergo company induction, medical checks, and any additional tests.
• Apply for or exchange your driver license if required.
• Enroll in CPC periodic training if needed.
• Apply for the digital tachograph driver card.
• Book ADR courses or refreshers if your role requires it.

Step 7: Build Your Safety Network

• Join company WhatsApp groups and local driver communities.
• Identify safe parking along your common routes.
• Set up a buddy system and agree on check-in times.
• Save emergency numbers and download the 112 app.

Step 8: Settle Your Life Admin

• Open a bank account and set up salary payments.
• Get a local SIM card with generous data.
• Register with a family doctor and understand clinic locations near your base.
• Explore neighborhoods for long-term rent.

Step 9: Start Driving with Confidence

• Conduct thorough pre-trip inspections and document them.
• Follow EU driving time regulations and company policies.
• Use your safety network to navigate traffic, weather, and customs.

Success Tips from Other Expats

• Always get clarity in writing: per diem rates, overtime rules, and safe parking reimbursements.
• Keep a digital copy of all documents on your phone and cloud storage.
• Do not skip CPC refreshers; they often include practical local knowledge.
• In winter, carry a personal kit: thermal layers, gloves, flashlight, reflective vest, power bank, snacks, and water.
• If a situation feels wrong at a loading site or stop, call dispatch and your safety group before proceeding.
• For international routes, keep a checklist for border-specific papers and vehicle equipment.
• Network with mechanics and tire shops near your base; quick help reduces downtime.

Conclusion: Your Network Is Your Co-Driver

Relocating to Romania can upgrade your career, income, and lifestyle. The country's growing logistics market needs skilled drivers, and the EU framework supports professional standards for safety and pay. Your greatest asset, however, will be the people around you: the buddy who answers a 2 a.m. call, the group that flags black ice on DN1, the dispatcher who values your thorough checklists, and the trainer who gets your CPC and ADR in order.

Start building that network today. Connect with employers, join Romania-based driver groups, prepare your documents, and organize your safety protocols. When you roll into Romania, you will not be alone. You will be part of a professional community that keeps each other safe and moving.

FAQ

1) What visa do I need to work as a driver in Romania if I am not an EU citizen?

You typically need a long-stay employment visa, type D/AM. Your future Romanian employer first applies for your work authorization. After approval, you apply for the D/AM visa at a Romanian consulate. When you arrive, you finalize your employment contract and apply for a residence (single) permit with the General Inspectorate for Immigration.

2) Can I drive professionally in Romania with my non-EU license?

For professional driving, you will likely need to exchange your license for a Romanian or EU-recognized license and secure CPC (Code 95). The exact process depends on whether Romania has an exchange agreement with your home country. Contact DRPCIV for guidance and be prepared to provide translations of your documents. For non-exchangeable licenses, testing may be required.

3) How do I get my digital tachograph driver card in Romania?

After you have your valid license and residence documentation, apply for a driver card through the designated authority in Romania. You will provide identification, your license, a photo, and pay a fee. Processing times vary, so apply as early as possible after signing your contract.

4) Is ADR certification mandatory for all trucking jobs?

No. ADR is required only if you transport dangerous goods. However, having ADR (basic and tanks) increases your job options and often improves pay. ADR certificates are valid for 5 years and require refresher training prior to expiry.

5) What are typical working hours and rest rules under EU law?

Daily driving is limited to 9 hours, extendable to 10 hours twice per week. Weekly driving is capped at 56 hours, with a 90-hour limit over two consecutive weeks. After 4.5 hours of driving, you must take a 45-minute break. Daily and weekly rest periods are mandatory. Your tachograph card records compliance, and both you and your employer can face fines for violations.

6) How much can I earn as a CE driver in Romania?

International CE drivers often earn 1,800 - 2,800 EUR net per month, combining base pay and per diem. Domestic CE roles generally range from 5,000 to 8,500 RON net monthly. ADR and specialized routes may pay more. Always ask employers to specify net vs. gross and provide a sample payslip.

7) How much does it cost to live in Bucharest compared to my earnings?

A reasonable monthly budget for a single person in Bucharest might be around 1,000 - 1,100 EUR for rent, utilities, food, transport, and incidentals. If you earn 1,800 - 2,800 EUR net in international trucking, you can save a significant portion of your income, especially if you share accommodation or live outside the city center.

8) What safety apps and channels should I use in Romania?

Use Waze and Google Maps for navigation and alerts, the 112 Romania app for emergencies, and follow INFOTRAFIC updates. Maintain WhatsApp or Zello groups with colleagues for route updates. If equipped, monitor CB channel 19 for trucker communications. Avoid sharing live location publicly; use trusted contacts only.

9) Are winter tires mandatory in Romania?

Winter tires are required when roads are covered with snow or ice. For heavy vehicles, chains may be required on certain routes, especially in mountain areas. Even when not legally mandatory, winter tires significantly improve safety and are standard practice for professional drivers.

10) What is the rovinieta, and do I need to pay it personally?

The rovinieta is an electronic vignette for using national roads in Romania. Heavy vehicles are categorized and priced differently from cars. Companies typically handle the rovinieta and any route-specific tolls for business use. Confirm this in your contract to avoid unexpected costs.

11) How do I find safe truck parking in Romania?

Use your driver network to maintain a curated list of well-lit, fenced, CCTV-monitored parking along A1, A2, A3, and key national roads. Major fuel stations like OMV, MOL, Rompetrol, and Petrom on main corridors often have reliable facilities. When in doubt, ask colleagues and dispatch for vetted options.

12) I am nervous about right-side driving. How can I adapt quickly?

Book orientation sessions with a trainer or a mentor driver. Start on depot roads and low-traffic areas, practice mirror checks and right-hand turns, and gradually progress to busier roads. Using a co-driver or buddy for your first city runs can accelerate confidence and safety.