5 Years Later: Where International Drivers Are Now

Introduction

Relocating for work is never a small decision. For professional drivers across the globe, Romania has emerged as a surprising and rewarding destination to build a long-term logistics career in the European Union. Five years ago, many drivers reading industry forums and job boards saw Romania mentioned as a stepping stone into EU routes and standards. Today, we are revisiting those early movers. Where are they now? What did the journey look like from license recognition and visas to daily life, earnings, and future prospects?

This comprehensive guide blends five-year success stories with practical, step-by-step advice. If you are a professional driver in Global considering relocation to Romania, you will find here:

Real progress updates from drivers who moved five years ago
The current Romanian job market for C, CE, and D category drivers
Up-to-date legal requirements and licensing pathways
Clear salary ranges in EUR and RON, plus benefits and per diems
Cost of living in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi
Cultural tips, winter driving guidance, and EU compliance rules
A relocation checklist and an FAQ to reduce surprises

By the end, you will have a concrete picture of the opportunity Romania offers and what it takes to make the transition successfully.

Why Romania?

Romania combines EU membership, a vibrant logistics sector, and a cost of living that is typically lower than Western Europe. This balance makes it attractive for international drivers seeking stable work, EU-standard training, and realistic pathways to career growth.

Key reasons drivers choose Romania:

EU Membership and Standards: Romania aligns with EU driving time rules, digital tachograph use, CPC requirements, and oversight by national authorities. Experience gained here is recognized across the EU.
Expanding Logistics Infrastructure: Major highways like A1, A2, A3, and the new Bucharest ring A0 continue to evolve. The Port of Constanta, rail intermodal facilities, and cross-border connections with Hungary and Bulgaria support high freight volumes.
Lower Cost of Living: Compared to many EU capitals, Romanian cities typically offer lower rental and living costs, so drivers can save a larger portion of their earnings.
Demand for Skilled Drivers: A persistent driver shortage means consistent vacancies for C/CE and D categories, from domestic route driving to international long-haul, as well as city bus and coach services.
Gateway to the EU Market: Many Romanian companies operate international routes across Central and Western Europe, providing exposure and experience that can grow your career.

Job Market Overview

Romania's transportation and logistics ecosystem is diverse. Whether you are a CE long-haul trucker or a D category bus driver, there are multiple employment options in major hubs and regional corridors.

Typical Employers and Sectors

Logistics and Trucking Firms: International Lazar Company, Dumagas, Aquila, Holleman, Blue River, DB Schenker Romania, and local fleets serving West-EU shippers
Parcel and Last-Mile Operators: Fan Courier, Cargus, DPD Romania, DHL, Sameday
Bus and Coach Operators: STB (Bucharest), STPT (Timisoara), CTP (Cluj-Napoca), CTP Iasi, regional coach lines and international coach partners (e.g., FlixBus network partners)
Distribution and Retail: FMCG and retail distribution fleets supplying supermarkets, pharmacies, and e-commerce networks
Specialized Transport: ADR hazardous goods, oversized loads (notably in heavy industry and port operations)

Where the Jobs Are

Bucharest: Romania's largest logistics hub. Opportunities include last-mile delivery, national distribution, and international routes.
Cluj-Napoca: Strong tech and services city with growing warehousing and logistics; bus and coach jobs are steady, with regional delivery and distribution.
Timisoara: Near the Hungarian border, strong manufacturing base, easy access to Western Europe for international trucking.
Iasi: Eastern hub with growing logistics and public transport investments; opportunities in regional distribution and cross-border routes to Moldova and Ukraine corridors (depending on security and regulations).

Role Types by License

C Category (Rigid trucks): Domestic distribution, regional routes, municipal services
CE Category (Articulated/tractor-trailer): Long-haul international, intermodal, port-to-warehouse, cross-border operations
D Category (Passenger buses/coaches): City buses, intercity coach, airport shuttle, private staff transport

Skills in Demand

Digital tachograph operation and data compliance
ADR certification for hazardous goods
Refrigerated (reefer) transport experience
Load restraint and cargo documentation proficiency
EU route planning, border crossing documentation, and rest-time planning

Legal Requirements

If you are a non-EU citizen from Global, your path to lawful employment in Romania typically includes a work permit, a long-stay visa, and a residence permit. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens have simplified procedures.

For Non-EU Citizens

Employer Sponsorship and Work Permit
- An employer in Romania applies for your work permit through the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI).
- Expect to provide: passport, criminal record certificate, medical certificate, proof of qualifications (licenses, CPC), and employment contract details.
- Romania sets annual quotas for non-EU workers; trucking and logistics roles are commonly included.
Long-Stay Visa for Employment (D/AM)
- Once the work permit is approved, you apply for the D/AM visa at a Romanian consulate/embassy in your country or region.
- Documents include: approved work permit, passport, proof of accommodation or support, medical insurance (valid until you enter Romania), and visa fee.
Residence Permit (Single Permit)
- After arriving in Romania, apply for a residence permit at IGI before your visa expires (within 90 days).
- The residence permit authorizes both stay and work. Renewals depend on your employment status and contract duration.
Family Reunification
- After meeting conditions, you can sponsor family members for reunification. Requirements include proof of income, accommodation, insurance, and clean criminal records.

Timeline and Tips:

Typical end-to-end timeline is 8-12 weeks, depending on employer readiness, document availability, and consulate capacity.
Keep originals and certified translations of licenses, CPC, ADR, and work references.
Verify with your employer whether they cover permit and visa fees.

For EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens

You can work without a work permit. However, you should register your residence in Romania with IGI to obtain a registration certificate.
EU driving licenses are recognized, but you must meet EU CPC and tachograph requirements.

Certification & License Recognition

Professional drivers in Romania operate under EU and national rules. Getting your credentials recognized or converted is critical.

Driving License Recognition/Conversion

EU/EEA Licenses: Recognized in Romania. You can drive with your EU license and must comply with medical checks, CPC periodic training, and tachograph rules.
Non-EU Licenses: Romania may exchange certain non-EU licenses if there is reciprocity. If exchange is not possible, you may need to pass theory and practical exams in Romania. Check with the Driver's Licensing Authority (DRPCIV) and your employer.

Documents commonly needed for exchange or validation:

Passport and residence permit (or visa)
Original driver's license and certified translation
Proof of professional experience (employment letters)
Medical and psychological fitness certificates from authorized Romanian clinics
Proof of residence in Romania

CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence)

Initial Qualification: Required for C/CE and D categories to drive professionally in the EU. If you already hold an EU-recognized CPC, you can use it in Romania.
Periodic Training: 35 hours every 5 years. Romania offers CPC periodic courses via accredited providers.
Driver Qualification Card (DQC): EU evidence of CPC status. Your card should be updated to reflect periodic training; keep it available during checks by ISCTR or police.

ADR Certification

ADR is required for transporting hazardous goods. If your ADR is EU-issued, it should be recognized; otherwise, you can retrain and test in Romania.
Training providers are accredited, and certificates are issued per ADR regulations. Ensure your ADR categories (e.g., tanks, classes 2, 3, etc.) are correctly listed.

Digital Tachograph Card

Apply for a Romanian driver tachograph card through the Romanian Road Transport Authority (ARR) channels.
Typical requirements: passport or ID, residence proof, driving license, passport-sized photos, and a fee per current ARR schedule.
Cards are usually valid for 5 years. Keep track of renewal dates to avoid downtime.

Medical and Psychological Fitness

Professional drivers must pass periodic medical checks and psych evaluations at authorized clinics. Keep certificates current; employers often arrange or reimburse these.

Salary & Benefits

Romanian driver pay structures often combine a base salary with per diems (daily allowances known locally as diurna), especially for international routes. Figures vary by region, employer, route type, and experience. The ranges below reflect typical 2024-2025 market conditions.

Note: For rough conversion, 1 EUR is approximately 4.9-5.0 RON. Always confirm current rates.

C/CE Category Drivers

Domestic routes (day runs, regional distribution):
- Net monthly: 4,000-7,000 RON (approx. 800-1,400 EUR)
- Extras: meal tickets, overtime, performance bonuses, accommodation on multi-day routes
International long-haul (Western Europe lanes):
- Net monthly including per diems: 10,000-15,000 RON (approx. 2,000-3,000 EUR)
- Structure: base net salary 2,000-3,500 RON plus per diems 40-75 EUR/day depending on country and company policy
- Additional: paid travel to the truck yard or partner depot abroad, accommodation in cab, equipment allowances

D Category (Bus/Coach)

City bus drivers (public operators):
- Net monthly: 3,500-6,000 RON (approx. 700-1,200 EUR), varying by city, overtime, and night/weekend differentials
- Benefits: meal tickets, uniform, paid leave, public-sector stability, union representation in some cities
Intercity/coach and airport shuttle:
- Net monthly: 4,500-7,500 RON (approx. 900-1,500 EUR), plus per-trip allowances and hotel on multi-day tours

Benefits and Extras

Meal Tickets: Common in Romania, taxable up to set limits; value varies by employer policy.
Per Diems: Favorable tax treatment when travel criteria are met; major component of take-home pay for international trucking.
Health Insurance: Employees contribute to the national system (CNAS). Private insurance top-ups may be offered.
Pension Contributions: Paid through payroll contributions; voluntary private pensions (Pillar III) may be available.
Training and Certifications: Many employers reimburse CPC periodic training, ADR certification, and tachograph card renewals.

Comparison with Origins in Global

Compared to many non-EU markets, Romanian CE international roles pay higher net income, especially when per diems are utilized and living costs are managed well.
Compared to Western EU countries, base salaries can be lower, but the cost of living and housing in Romania are also lower, allowing solid savings.

Cost of Living

Romania offers a favorable cost of living relative to many EU countries. Costs vary by city.

Housing (Monthly Rent)

Bucharest:
- 1-bedroom apartment: 400-700 EUR
- 2-bedroom apartment: 600-1,000 EUR
Cluj-Napoca:
- 1-bedroom: 350-600 EUR
- 2-bedroom: 550-900 EUR
Timisoara:
- 1-bedroom: 300-500 EUR
- 2-bedroom: 450-800 EUR
Iasi:
- 1-bedroom: 300-500 EUR
- 2-bedroom: 450-750 EUR

Tip: Proximity to depots matters. Many CE drivers spend nights in the cab during rotations, so they choose modest rentals or shared flats to reduce costs.

Utilities and Internet

Utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage): 60-150 EUR/month depending on season and apartment size
Internet and mobile: 8-20 EUR/month for high-speed home internet; 5-15 EUR/month for generous mobile data plans

Transportation

City public transport passes typically 15-30 EUR/month depending on the city and whether metro is included (Bucharest has metro and bus/tram). Single rides are inexpensive.
Fuel prices are generally competitive by EU standards; many drivers do not need a personal car if routes include company transport to depot.

Groceries and Dining

Monthly groceries for one: 150-250 EUR
Inexpensive restaurant meal: 6-10 EUR; mid-range dinner for two: 25-45 EUR
Coffee: 1.5-3 EUR; Bakery items are budget-friendly and widely available.

Cultural Integration

Romania is welcoming, with a mix of traditional values and modern urban lifestyles. Integration is smoother when drivers pick up basic Romanian phrases and understand workplace expectations.

Language Basics

Hello: Buna
Thank you: Multumesc
Please: Va rog
Yes/No: Da/Nu
Where is...?: Unde este...?
I do not understand: Nu inteleg

Many dispatchers and managers in larger companies speak English. Learning practical Romanian accelerates trust, especially with warehouse staff and municipal officials during checks.

Workplace Culture

Punctual and Results-Oriented: Arrive on time, communicate delays early, and keep documents tidy.
Respectful Formality: Use titles initially (Domnul/Doamna), then first names are common once rapport is built.
Safety Mindset: Compliance with EU rules is non-negotiable, and inspectors may check tachograph data and documents at any time.
Team Support: Senior drivers often mentor newcomers; do not hesitate to ask route or customs questions.

Daily Life and Community

Community: Romanian cities have active expat groups. Truckers often use WhatsApp or Telegram groups for road updates.
Banking: Major banks include Banca Transilvania, BCR, ING Bank Romania, Raiffeisen, and BRD. Opening an account typically requires a passport and residence permit.
Mobile Carriers: Digi, Orange, and Vodafone offer competitive plans.
Emergency Number: 112 for police, fire, and medical.

Practical Steps to Relocate

This step-by-step plan reflects successful pathways used by drivers who relocated five years ago and are thriving today.

Research Roles and Employers
- Shortlist companies with CE or D openings matching your experience.
- Verify they sponsor non-EU work permits if needed and provide CPC support.
Prepare Your Documents
- Passport valid for at least 12-18 months.
- Driver's license (C, CE, or D) and certified translations.
- CPC, ADR, and any training certificates.
- Work references and employment history.
- Medical and psychological fitness certificates (you can also obtain these in Romania through authorized clinics).
Apply and Interview
- Highlight EU compliance experience: tachograph operation, Regulation (EC) No 561/2006, and 2002/15/EC working time directive.
- Ask about route patterns, per diem policy, accommodation, and support with permits and housing.
Employer Files Work Permit
- Provide all required documents promptly.
- Confirm expected timelines and who pays fees.
Obtain Long-Stay Visa (D/AM)
- Book a consulate appointment early; bring the approved work permit and supporting documents.
- Arrange temporary accommodation in Romania for your arrival.
Arrive in Romania and Register
- Within legal deadlines, apply for your residence permit with IGI.
- Attend medical checks, do onboarding paperwork, and set up payroll.
License Recognition and Tachograph Card
- If needed, begin license exchange procedures with DRPCIV.
- Apply for a driver tachograph card through ARR.
- Schedule CPC periodic training or ADR refreshers as required.
Housing and Banking
- Choose housing near your depot or with good transport links.
- Open a local bank account; set up mobile service and internet.
Begin Work and Build Routine
- Align with company dispatch rules.
- Keep a strict habit of downloading and backing up tachograph data.
- Track per diems and expense claims carefully.
Plan for Growth

Add ADR, tanker, or specialized trailer experience to increase earnings.
Consider Romanian-language lessons for faster promotion to team lead or trainer roles.

Regulation Snapshot: What You Must Know

Romanian drivers follow EU rules with local enforcement by ARR and ISCTR.

Driving Times and Rest (Regulation 561/2006):
- Daily driving: up to 9 hours (twice a week, up to 10 hours)
- Weekly maximum: 56 hours; two-week limit: 90 hours
- Breaks: 45 minutes after 4.5 hours of driving (can split into 15 + 30 minutes)
- Daily rest: 11 hours regular (or 9 hours reduced), weekly rest 45 hours regular, with conditions for reduced rests
Working Time (Directive 2002/15/EC):
- Average weekly working time generally limited to 48 hours over reference periods; include loading, paperwork, and waiting times.
Tachograph (Regulation 165/2014):
- Smart tachograph usage and data retention required. Keep printouts for road checks when needed.
Romanian Road Transport Laws and Enforcement:
- ARR accredits training, issues some certificates, and oversees compliance.
- ISCTR conducts roadside inspections and company audits; fines apply for breaches.
Mobility Package:
- Rules on cabotage, posting of drivers, and vehicle return requirements. Employers brief drivers on how this affects schedules and documentation.
Winter Safety and Equipment:
- Winter tires are mandatory when conditions require; chains may be required in mountainous areas. Carry a reflective vest, warning triangles, fire extinguisher, and first aid kit.
Tolls and Vignette:
- Romania uses a rovinieta (road vignette) for national roads. Purchase online or at fuel stations. Additional tolls apply to certain bridges and motorways. Employers typically handle payments for fleet vehicles.

Five-Year Success Stories: Where Drivers Are Now

Real names and minor details have been adjusted for privacy, but the trajectories and outcomes reflect genuine patterns we see across the industry.

1) Andrei, CE Driver to Fleet Trainer in Bucharest

Background: Arrived from Global with 6 years CE experience but no EU CPC. He chose a Bucharest-based fleet running Italy, Germany, and France.

Year 1: Completed CPC initial qualification in Romania and obtained a tachograph card. Focused on learning Romanian terminology and mastering EU rest rules. Income averaged around 2,000 EUR/month net with per diems.

Year 3: Took ADR training and added tanker endorsements. Became the go-to driver for hazardous loads and high-value shipments. Net earnings rose to 2,500-2,800 EUR/month.

Year 5: Promoted to fleet trainer. He conducts CPC periodic sessions and mentors new drivers on tachograph compliance and fuel-efficient driving. Andrei now has stable daytime hours between training weeks and occasional demonstration runs. He purchased an apartment on the outskirts of Bucharest and reports saving 20-30% of take-home pay monthly.

2) Maria, D Category City Bus Driver in Cluj-Napoca

Background: Relocated five years ago with a D license and urban bus experience.

Year 1: Joined CTP Cluj-Napoca after passing medical evaluations and local route orientation. Monthly net salary started at 800-900 EUR equivalent with overtime.

Year 3: Completed periodic CPC training and took on shift supervisor responsibilities. Maria focused on service punctuality and incident reporting.

Year 5: She trains new intakes on customer service, ticketing systems, and safe driving in winter conditions. Benefits include predictable schedules, union support, and increased net pay around 1,100-1,300 EUR/month including differentials. She appreciates the city's quality of life and modest rent compared to Western Europe.

3) Yusuf, International CE Driver in Timisoara

Background: Came with CE experience from Global and limited English. He chose Timisoara for its proximity to Hungary and the A1 corridor.

Year 1: The employer sponsored his work permit and CPC periodic training. Initial net pay with per diems averaged 2,000 EUR/month.

Year 2-3: Transitioned to Western Europe long-haul lanes with consistent Germany-Italy rotations. Improved English and learned basic Romanian for depot staff. Net per month climbed to 2,400-2,700 EUR as route efficiency and fuel bonuses kicked in.

Year 5: Yusuf feels stable and valued. He saves aggressively and is considering leasing his own tractor through the company's partner program. Family reunification completed in Year 4; his children are enrolled in local schools.

4) Elena, ADR Specialist and Team Lead in Iasi

Background: Switched from domestic rigid trucks to ADR tankers.

Year 1: Took ADR training in Romania, passed tank specialization, and joined a regional chemical distributor. Started near 1,800-2,000 EUR net with allowances.

Year 3: Led a small team coordinating safety drills, emergency procedures, and documentation. Strong record of zero incidents.

Year 5: Elevated to team lead overseeing onboarding for ADR drivers and liaising with ISCTR during audits. Net compensation averages 2,300-2,600 EUR, plus an annual bonus tied to safety KPIs. Elena appreciates Iasi's low housing costs and sense of community.

What They Share:

Embraced EU compliance from day one.
Kept certifications current (CPC, ADR, tachograph cards, medicals).
Learned enough Romanian to communicate with colleagues and inspectors.
Managed living costs strategically to save and invest.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Driving on the Right Side: For drivers from left-side traffic countries, plan a few days of practice with a trainer. Focus on lane discipline and mirror checks, especially at roundabouts and exits.
Winter Driving: Romania's Carpathian regions can be snowy. Equip with proper winter tires, know when chains are required, and plan routes with weather apps and dispatcher advice.
EU Working Time Rules: Stay disciplined with breaks and rests. Avoid pressure to cut corners; fines and license risks are not worth short-term gains.
Toll Systems and Vignettes: Confirm your employer's process for rovinieta and cross-border tolls. Keep receipts and digital confirmations organized.
Language: Learn functional Romanian for road checks and depots. Dispatch may use English, but Romanian helps with warehouse staff and local authorities.

Success Tips From Other Expats

Keep Document Copies: Maintain digital and paper copies of permits, CPC cards, ADR certificates, and medicals.
Reserve Savings: Build an emergency fund equal to 2-3 months of expenses in case of route changes or vehicle downtime.
Use Rest Breaks Wisely: Stretch, hydrate, and review next-leg driving conditions. Micro-planning prevents errors.
Network: Join driver groups for traffic alerts, rest-stop recommendations, and job leads.
Track Earnings: Record per diems and allowances; reconcile with payslips to ensure accuracy.
Continuous Learning: Add endorsements and stay current on Mobility Package updates.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Five years on, international drivers who chose Romania have built meaningful, stable careers aligned with EU standards. They have moved into training, team leadership, and specialized roles while keeping a healthy work-life balance thanks to predictable schedules and a moderate cost of living. If your goals include EU-compliant experience, solid earnings with lower living costs, and multiple career paths, Romania deserves a serious look.

Ready to explore your move?

Shortlist 5-7 Romanian employers that match your license and route preferences.
Prepare your documents and ask direct questions about visas, CPC, ADR, and per diems.
Set a realistic 8-12 week timeline and start language basics now.

Your next five years can look like the success stories above. Take the first step today.

FAQ

1) How long does it take to move from Global to a driving job in Romania?

Typical timelines run 8-12 weeks. The steps include employer work permit approval, D/AM visa at a consulate, travel to Romania, and residence permit completion. Prepare documents early to avoid delays.

2) Can I use my current C/CE/D license in Romania?

EU/EEA licenses are recognized. Non-EU licenses may be exchanged if there is a reciprocity agreement; otherwise, you may need to test in Romania. Check with DRPCIV and confirm with your employer.

3) Do I need CPC to drive professionally in Romania?

Yes. EU CPC is mandatory for C/CE and D categories. If you do not have an EU-recognized CPC, plan for initial qualification or periodic training in Romania. Employers often guide this process.

4) What are realistic earnings for CE drivers?

Domestic CE drivers commonly earn around 800-1,400 EUR net per month. International CE drivers can reach 2,000-3,000 EUR net per month with per diems. Your exact pay depends on routes, experience, and company policy.

5) How difficult is winter driving in Romania?

Conditions vary by region. Mountain passes and northern areas see snow and ice. With winter tires, chains when required, and careful route planning, most drivers adapt quickly. Dispatchers offer guidance and weather updates.

6) Will my ADR certificate from abroad be accepted?

ADR issued within the EU is broadly recognized. Non-EU ADR may require retraining and examination in Romania. Local accredited providers offer initial and refresher courses.

7) How does the rovinieta work for trucks?

Romania uses a rovinieta (road vignette) for national roads, plus separate tolls for specific bridges or motorways. Employers typically manage these fees for fleet vehicles, but drivers should confirm and keep proof of payment.

8) Can I bring my family?

Yes, via family reunification after meeting income, accommodation, and documentation requirements. Start this process once your residence permit is in place and your job is stable.

9) Do I need Romanian language skills to start?

Not strictly, especially in larger companies where English is used. However, basic Romanian greatly helps on the road, during inspections, and with depot staff. Many drivers learn over their first year.

10) How can I increase my earnings over time?

Add ADR and specialized trailer skills, maintain an excellent compliance record, and volunteer for premium routes. Training or team lead roles can add stability and incremental pay.

Job Market Details: Romania's Logistics Landscape at a Glance

To round out your decision-making, here is a targeted view of the four key cities.

Bucharest

Roles: International CE trucking, last-mile delivery, national distribution, bus driver roles with STB
Pay: Often on the higher side for CE with Western Europe lanes and generous per diems
Living Costs: Highest in Romania, but still competitive versus Western EU capitals

Cluj-Napoca

Roles: City bus, regional deliveries, tech-sector logistics support
Pay: Mid-range; strong public transport roles and predictable schedules
Living Costs: Rising but manageable with careful housing choices

Timisoara

Roles: CE cross-border to Hungary and Western Europe; manufacturing supply chain runs
Pay: Strong for CE international; many fleets headquartered or staging here
Living Costs: Moderate, with good access to border crossings and highways

Iasi

Roles: Regional distribution, growing public transport, ADR roles in regional industries
Pay: Competitive for the region; lower living costs help savings
Living Costs: Often the lowest among major cities featured here

Final Checklist Before You Pack

Valid passport, work permit approval, D/AM visa appointment confirmed
Translated and certified copies of your license, CPC, ADR
Medical and psychological certificates or appointment booked in Romania
Employer onboarding details: route patterns, training dates, equipment
Housing plan (short-term rental or company accommodation)
Bank account and SIM setup appointments
Tachograph card application documents ready
Winter gear and reflective equipment if arriving in cold months
Emergency fund covering 2-3 months of living expenses

Your next five years in Romania can be the foundation for a long, rewarding career in European logistics. With the right preparation, you will not only find work - you will find growth, stability, and a community that understands the road as a profession and a way of life.