Step-by-Step Guide to Driver Work Visa Applications

Introduction

Relocating from Global to Romania to build a career as a professional driver is an exciting move with real, measurable benefits. Romania is part of the European Union, the transport and logistics sector is expanding rapidly, and the cost of living remains competitive compared with many Western EU countries. If you are a truck driver (C/CE), bus driver (D), or a delivery professional, Romania offers diverse roles across long-haul international routes, regional distribution, city bus networks, and last-mile e-commerce delivery.

This guide gives you a complete, step-by-step walkthrough of the immigration and documentation journey to work legally as a driver in Romania. We cover visa types and work permits, CPC and other certifications, how to convert or validate your license, and how to comply with EU and Romanian road transport rules. You will also find realistic salary ranges in EUR and RON, living costs in major cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi, and practical relocation tips from drivers who have already made the move.

Whether you are coming from Asia, Africa, the Middle East, or the Americas, the process may seem complex at first. But with a reliable employer, organized paperwork, and the right training plan, you can secure your work authorization and join a sector that values skill, safety, and reliability.

Why Romania?

EU membership and growing logistics hub

Romania is a full member of the European Union, which means:

EU transport regulations and professional standards apply consistently, creating a clear framework for driver qualifications and working conditions.
Logistics networks connect Romania to Central and Western Europe, the Balkans, and the Black Sea, with freight corridors running through major hubs like Bucharest, Timisoara, and Cluj-Napoca.
Many international operators have local subsidiaries in Romania, opening doors to cross-border routes and broader career development.

Romania also benefits from strategic infrastructure:

The Port of Constanta on the Black Sea is a major gateway for container and bulk cargo.
Border crossings with Hungary, Bulgaria, and Ukraine make Romania a transit hub for regional freight.
Expanding highway and expressway projects are steadily improving transit times.

Competitive salaries with lower living costs

Driver wages in Romania are competitive in the region, especially for international routes, while everyday expenses remain more affordable than in many Western EU countries. This balance makes it easier to save money, support family at home, or invest in professional development.

Quality of life and work-life balance

Romania offers a good mix of modern city life and scenic countryside. Drivers based near major cities can access reliable healthcare, public services, and a growing expat community. The language is accessible to learn, and most logistics employers use English for basic communication, especially in international operations. Work-life balance can be tailored based on job type: long-haul for higher earnings or local delivery and public transport for predictable schedules.

High driver demand

Romania faces the same driver shortages seen across much of Europe, particularly for C+E long-haul and D category bus drivers. Employers actively recruit internationally and assist with work permits, training, and onboarding.

Job Market Overview

Types of driver roles in Romania

Long-haul truck driver (C+E): International routes to Germany, Italy, France, Austria, Hungary, Bulgaria, and beyond. Drivers handle EU tachograph rules, border crossings, and varied cargo types.
Regional and domestic truck driver (C/CE): Distribution between Romanian cities, ports, and industrial parks. More home time than long-haul.
Bus and coach driver (D): City bus networks and intercity coach services. Stable schedules and public service benefits in some cases.
Delivery and last-mile driver (B/C): Urban parcel delivery, e-commerce, and FMCG distribution. Ideal for drivers seeking regular hours.
Specialized transport: ADR hazardous goods (tanker, chemicals), oversize loads, temperature-controlled logistics (reefer), and fuel distribution.

Key logistics hubs and routes

Bucharest: Headquarters for many couriers, 3PLs, and bus operators; strong demand for last-mile and city routes.
Cluj-Napoca: Tech and services hub with busy distribution networks in Transylvania.
Timisoara: Western gateway to Hungary and Central Europe; strong manufacturing base and cross-border flows.
Iasi: Growing northeastern hub with regional distribution opportunities.
Constanta: Black Sea port operations; container and bulk freight, plus intermodal links.
Arad and Oradea: Border-area logistics linked to Hungary and Western EU markets.

Typical employers in Romania

International logistics and 3PL: DB Schenker Romania, DHL Freight Romania, DSV Solutions Romania, Raben Logistics Romania
National trucking and distribution: Aquila, ROMSTAL logistics operations, large FMCG distributors with fleets
Courier and last-mile: Fan Courier, Sameday, Cargus, Nemo Express
Bus and public transport: STB (Bucharest), CTP Cluj-Napoca, STPT Timisoara, CTP Iasi, plus private intercity and coach operators including partners of FlixBus

Note: The exact hiring needs, training offers, and benefit packages vary by employer and season. International route operators often provide additional allowances and structured CPC training.

Legal Requirements: Work Permits and Visa Process for Global Citizens

Romania has a clear, employer-led pathway for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens to work legally. The core steps are:

Step 1: Secure a job offer and employment contract

Employers decide to hire you and confirm the role, route type, and base location.
You typically receive a preliminary or conditional job offer subject to work authorization.

Step 2: Employer obtains the Work Authorization (Work Permit)

In Romania, the employer applies for your work permit (often referred to as the Work Authorization or "aviz de munca") from the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI).
This step is employer-driven. You will provide documentation, but you do not submit the application directly.
Processing times commonly range from 15 to 30 working days, but can vary. Peak seasons or incomplete files can cause delays.

Typical documents you will be asked to provide:

Valid passport (with sufficient validity, often at least 6-12 months beyond the intended stay)
Recent passport photos meeting Romanian consular standards
Criminal record certificate from your home country (apostilled or legalized as required)
Medical certificate confirming you are fit to work
Proof of qualifications: driving licenses (C, CE, D), CPC or equivalent, ADR where applicable
CV and employment history; references if requested
Proof of no outstanding driving bans in your home country, if applicable
Certified translations into Romanian by a sworn translator

Fees: Employers usually cover the work permit fee. Historically, fees have been around 100 EUR equivalent for standard work permits, but always verify current amounts with IGI.

Step 3: Apply for the Romanian Long-Stay Employment Visa (Type D/AM)

After the work permit is approved, you apply at a Romanian embassy or consulate for the long-stay employment visa, commonly called D/AM.
Standard required documents include your valid passport, the approved work permit, proof of accommodation or employer sponsorship, travel medical insurance for the visa period if required, and the visa fee.
Typical consular visa fee for long-stay employment visa is around 120 EUR. Confirm the exact fee and accepted payment method with the specific consulate.
Processing times vary by consulate but can range from 10 to 30 days once your file is complete.

Step 4: Enter Romania and apply for the Residence Permit (Single Permit)

Upon arrival with your D/AM visa, you must apply for your residence permit with IGI. This is often referred to as the Single Permit (combined work and residence right) per EU practice.
Deadline: Submit the residence permit application within the time limit indicated on your visa, generally within 90 days from entry. Employers typically assist with appointments and paperwork.
Documents include the employment contract, proof of accommodation (rental contract or employer-provided housing), medical insurance, tax registration details handled by the employer, and biometric data.

Validity and renewals:

Residence permits for regular employment are usually issued for up to 1 year at a time and are renewable if your employment continues.
Keep track of expiry dates and start renewal at least 30 days before the permit expires.

Step 5: Family reunification (if applicable)

After you hold a valid residence permit, you may be eligible to sponsor certain family members (spouse and minor children) under family reunification rules. Separate applications, proof of accommodation, financial means, and health insurance are required.

Common pitfalls to avoid

Submitting incomplete or untranslated documents
Not legalizing or apostilling documents where required
Allowing your visa or residence permit to expire before renewal
Starting to work before your work authorization and residence permit are issued

Tip: Maintain clear scans of all documents and keep both digital and physical copies. Use consistent names and spellings across all records.

Certification and License Recognition

Professional drivers must meet EU and Romanian standards. Your exact path depends on your current license and where it was issued.

Driving license categories

Category C: Rigid truck
Category CE (C+E): Articulated truck or truck with trailer
Category D: Bus/coach
Category B: Light vehicle and many delivery vans

If you already hold an EU-issued license with Code 95

EU professional drivers have Code 95 on their license as proof of CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence). This is recognized in Romania.
Ensure your CPC periodic training (35 hours every 5 years) is up to date. Carry valid proof.
You can drive in Romania without exchanging your EU license, but if you settle long-term you may exchange for a Romanian license for administrative simplicity.

If your license is non-EU

There are two main paths:

License exchange: Romania exchanges some non-EU licenses based on reciprocity agreements. Check if your country is eligible. If exchange is possible, you submit your original license, translations, medical tests, and photos to get a Romanian license in the relevant categories. Additional tests may be required depending on the agreement.
Obtain a Romanian license: If exchange is not possible, you will need to pass theory and practical exams in Romania for the categories you need. Your employer may arrange training and support. You will also take a medical exam and psychological evaluation required for professional categories.

Important: You cannot drive professionally in Romania on a non-EU license without ensuring legal recognition or replacement. Plan this early to avoid downtime after arrival.

CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) - Code 95

EU law requires CPC for professional bus and truck drivers.
Initial qualification: 140 or 280 hours depending on route, culminating in examinations. Some drivers from outside the EU will need to obtain CPC in Romania if their current certification is not recognized.
Periodic training: 35 hours every 5 years in approved training centers.
After completion, Code 95 is added to your license, showing you are professionally qualified to drive in the EU.

Digital tachograph card

Professional drivers in the EU must use a digital tachograph card to record driving time, breaks, and rest periods.
In Romania, driver tachograph cards are issued by the Romanian Road Authority (ARR).
Requirements typically include ID or passport, residence permit or proof of residence status, license details, and a fee. Apply as soon as your status allows; processing can take up to a few weeks.

ADR certification for hazardous goods

ADR is mandatory to transport hazardous materials. If you will drive tankers or carry chemicals, your employer may require ADR.
ADR training and exam are offered by accredited centers in Romania. After passing, you receive an ADR certificate valid throughout the EU for 5 years.
Tanker specialization (ADR tank) is a separate module. Plan training around your route assignments.

Medical and psychological checks

Romanian law requires periodic medical checks for professional drivers. These include eyesight, hearing, general fitness, and sometimes psychological evaluation.
Bring any existing medical records and prescription details. You may need Romanian-language versions or certified translations.

Language for exams and training

Exams are typically in Romanian. Some centers offer support or materials in English, but expect Romanian to be the default. Employers that regularly onboard international drivers often provide language support and exam preparation.

Salary and Benefits

Salaries depend on license category, route type, and employer size. Below are realistic ranges to help you plan. RON figures use an approximate rate of 1 EUR = 5 RON; always check the latest exchange rate.

Truck drivers (C/CE)

Domestic and regional routes: 900 to 1,400 EUR net per month (about 4,500 to 7,000 RON), often with meal, phone, or fuel card perks.
International long-haul: 1,400 to 2,300 EUR net per month (about 7,000 to 11,500 RON), plus daily allowances, bonuses for performance and fuel economy, and extra pay for weekends or nights.
ADR/tanker or specialized loads: 1,800 to 2,600 EUR net per month (about 9,000 to 13,000 RON), depending on cargo risk and route complexity.

Bus and coach drivers (D)

City bus networks: 800 to 1,200 EUR net per month (about 4,000 to 6,000 RON), with overtime options and public service benefits such as stable schedules and leave plans.
Intercity coach: 1,000 to 1,500 EUR net per month (about 5,000 to 7,500 RON), sometimes with per-trip bonuses.

Delivery drivers (B/C)

Courier and last-mile: 700 to 1,100 EUR net per month (about 3,500 to 5,500 RON). Earnings vary with delivery volume, route density, and vehicle type.

Pay structure and benefits you may see

Per diem for international trips
Fuel economy or safe driving bonuses
Housing help or relocation bonus for new hires
Paid CPC periodic training
Uniform, PPE, and safety gear provided
Health insurance and social security contributions per Romanian law
Paid annual leave (minimums set by law)

Note: Net pay depends on tax and contribution rules, allowances, and how benefits are structured in your contract. Clarify whether allowances are taxable and confirm guaranteed minimums.

Cost of Living in Romanian Cities

Overall, Romania offers lower living costs than many Western EU countries, allowing drivers to save more of their salary. Prices vary by location and lifestyle.

Housing (monthly rent for 1-bedroom apartments)

Bucharest: 450 to 700 EUR outside city center; 650 to 950 EUR in central areas
Cluj-Napoca: 400 to 650 EUR outside center; 550 to 850 EUR central
Timisoara: 350 to 550 EUR outside center; 450 to 700 EUR central
Iasi: 300 to 500 EUR outside center; 400 to 650 EUR central

Tip: Many employers base drivers near depots on the outskirts of cities, where rents are lower and parking is easier. Shared housing can reduce costs by 30 to 40 percent.

Utilities and internet

Utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage): 80 to 150 EUR per month for a 1-bedroom, higher in winter
Internet and mobile: 10 to 20 EUR per month for decent speed mobile plans; 7 to 15 EUR for home broadband depending on package

Transportation and daily expenses

Public transport monthly pass: 13 to 20 EUR in most cities
Fuel: Prices fluctuate; plan around EU averages and check local pumps. If assigned a company vehicle, personal fuel costs are minimal.
Groceries and eating out: 150 to 300 EUR per month for groceries; 6 to 10 EUR for a simple restaurant meal; 2 to 4 EUR for coffee

Sample monthly budget for a single driver in Timisoara

Rent: 450 EUR
Utilities and internet: 120 EUR
Groceries and meals: 220 EUR
Transport and miscellaneous: 80 EUR
Mobile and other: 30 EUR
Total: ~900 EUR

With a domestic driver net salary of 1,100 EUR, that leaves about 200 EUR to save. With international long-haul earnings of 1,800 EUR or more, savings can exceed 800 EUR per month, depending on lifestyle.

Cultural Integration

Language basics

Romanian is a Romance language with similarities to Italian and Spanish. Learning basic phrases helps tremendously in depots, workshops, and roadside checks.

Hello: Buna ziua
Thank you: Multumesc
Please: Va rog
Yes/No: Da / Nu
I do not speak Romanian well: Nu vorbesc bine romana
Do you speak English?: Vorbiti engleza?

Expect English in international logistics settings, but Romanian is essential for daily life and local services. Consider a beginner course within your first three months.

Workplace culture

Respect hierarchy, but do not hesitate to ask questions. Supervisors prefer you clarify rather than guess.
Punctuality matters. Arrive early for dispatch windows and training.
Safety first. Employers value drivers who follow CPC, tachograph, and load security rules.
Documentation accuracy is key, especially for cross-border shipments.

Driving culture and road etiquette

Romania drives on the right-hand side of the road. If you come from left-hand traffic countries, schedule practice drives with a trainer and allow time to adjust.
Winter conditions can be severe in the mountains and northern regions. Winter tires are legally required when snow or ice is present. Chains may be mandatory for heavy vehicles on certain routes. Follow company winter procedures.
Toll and vignette systems: Romania requires an electronic vignette (e-rovinieta) for national roads. Heavy goods vehicles pay higher rates depending on vehicle class. There are additional bridge or motorway tolls at certain points, such as the A2 Fetești-Cernavoda toll and some Danube bridges. Employers typically handle toll accounts, but learn the rules to avoid fines.

Public holidays and time off

Plan leave around Romanian public holidays and your employer's busy periods. Easter, Christmas, and summer months can impact route planning. Coordinate with dispatch early.

Practical Steps to Relocate: A Complete Checklist

Use this step-by-step plan to move from Global to Romania smoothly.

1. Research roles and employers

Decide your target role: long-haul CE, city bus D, regional C, or last-mile B/C.
Prepare a CV listing all licenses, endorsements (ADR), and experience with vehicle types and routes.

2. Secure a conditional job offer

Apply to reputable companies that regularly sponsor work permits for international drivers.
Confirm that the employer will support your work permit, visa, onboarding training, and, if needed, license conversion.

3. Gather documentation early

Passport with at least 12 months validity
Criminal record from your home country (apostille/legalization as required)
Medical certificate stating fitness to work
Proof of qualifications: driver license categories, CPC or equivalent, ADR
Employment references and previous contracts if available
Birth certificate and marriage certificate for family applications (with translations)
Proof of accommodation plan (employer housing or rental plan)

4. Certified translations

Use sworn translators to translate key documents into Romanian.
Keep both originals and certified copies.

5. Employer applies for your work permit

Respond quickly to any request for additional documents from the employer or IGI.
Expect 15 to 30 working days for initial processing, but this can vary.

6. Apply for the long-stay employment visa (D/AM)

Submit your application at the designated Romanian consulate covering your residence.
Bring the approved work permit, accommodation details, insurance if required, photos, and visa fee.
Track processing and attend any requested interviews.

7. Plan your arrival

Coordinate with your employer for airport pickup or accommodation.
Prepare initial funds in EUR or RON for 4 to 6 weeks of living expenses.
Save digital copies of all documents on your phone and cloud storage.

8. Enter Romania and register

Within the required time frame, apply for your residence permit (Single Permit) at IGI.
Provide biometrics, employment contract, proof of housing, and insurance.

9. Open a bank account

Many banks allow account opening with a passport and proof of residence or employment. Your employer can advise on preferred banks for quick salary payments.

10. Tax and social security setup

Your employer registers you with the tax authority (ANAF) and manages payroll taxes, social insurance (pension), and health contributions.

11. Medical and psychological evaluation

Complete mandatory driver medical checks with an accredited clinic.
Keep certificates on file, as employers and authorities may request them.

12. License exchange or testing (if non-EU)

If exchangeable: submit your foreign license and required documents to obtain the Romanian license in the same categories.
If not exchangeable: enroll in a driving school for theory and practical training. Schedule exams promptly to minimize downtime.

13. CPC and Code 95

If you already hold EU CPC, verify validity and ensure Code 95 is on your license.
If not, enroll in initial CPC or periodic CPC training as directed by your employer. Plan for 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years.

14. Tachograph driver card

Apply through ARR for your digital tachograph card.
Do not begin international assignments without a valid card; fines for missing or misused cards are significant.

15. ADR certification (if required)

If you will transport hazardous goods, book ADR basic and, if needed, tanker modules.
Keep the ADR certificate with you in the vehicle as required by law.

16. Safety and equipment briefing

Receive vehicle-specific training, including load securing, temperature-controlled cargo procedures, and winter driving protocols.
Confirm the company process for roadside inspections and documentation.

17. Accommodation and local life setup

Finalize rental agreements if not living in employer-provided housing.
Register your address if required and keep copies of your rental contract and utility bills.

18. Language learning plan

Start with a beginner Romanian course or app.
Learn driver-relevant phrases for depots, workshops, and police checks.

19. First routes and probation period

Expect a probationary period with supervised routes.
Keep a log of any technical issues, border experiences, and questions to discuss with your dispatcher or mentor.

20. Renewal calendar

Create reminders for residence permit renewal, CPC periodic training, ADR renewal, tachograph card expiry, and medical checks.

Regulations You Must Know

EU driving and rest time rules (Regulation EC 561/2006)

Maximum daily driving: 9 hours; can be extended to 10 hours twice per week.
Maximum weekly driving: 56 hours.
Maximum over two consecutive weeks: 90 hours.
Breaks: At least 45 minutes after 4 hours 30 minutes of driving. Can be split into 15 minutes + 30 minutes.
Daily rest: Minimum 11 hours (can be reduced to 9 hours up to three times between weekly rests).
Weekly rest: Regular weekly rest of at least 45 hours, or reduced weekly rest with compensation next week.

Working time directive (Directive 2002/15/EC)

Limits average weekly working time and sets rules for night work, breaks, and record-keeping for mobile workers.

Romanian road transport laws

E-rovinieta is mandatory for national roads. For heavy goods vehicles, the cost depends on vehicle class and duration (daily, weekly, monthly, yearly). Employers usually handle it, but drivers should verify validity to avoid on-the-spot fines.
Additional toll points exist, for example the A2 Fetești-Cernavoda toll and certain Danube bridge crossings. Keep receipts or electronic confirmations as instructed by your employer.
Winter tires are required whenever road conditions are wintery. Heavy vehicles may need chains in mountain zones when signposted.
Carry all mandatory vehicle equipment: warning triangles, reflective vest, first aid kit, fire extinguisher as per vehicle class and company policy.

Border and Schengen considerations

Romania is in the EU. At the time of writing, land border checks with some neighboring countries may still apply. Always carry your passport, residence documents, and vehicle papers. Check the latest border policies and employer guidance before departure.

Common Challenges for Global Drivers and How to Overcome Them

Driving on the right

If you come from a left-driving country, schedule adaptation sessions in a depot yard and low-traffic routes before international assignments.
Focus on right turns, roundabouts, and lane discipline. Use mirrors proactively and do not rush maneuvers.

Winter driving

Attend employer winter safety briefings. Practice chain fitting if your route requires it.
Increase following distance, brake gently, and maintain steady speed on climbs. Use the appropriate gear and avoid sudden steering inputs.

Toll and vignette systems

Confirm that e-rovinieta and any route-specific tolls are active before you start. If your employer uses on-board units or online accounts, learn the process and escalation steps in case of device failure.

EU working time compliance

Always use your tachograph card correctly. Do not share cards or drive without a card.
Take mandated breaks and rests even under time pressure. Communicate with dispatch early if delays happen.

Language and cultural differences

Learn depot and workshop vocabulary in Romanian. Use translation apps responsibly, but avoid using phones while driving.
Be polite and patient at borders and weigh stations. Clear documentation and calm communication go a long way.

Success Tips From Other Expat Drivers

Choose an employer with a proven record of sponsoring permits and supporting license conversion.
Keep a personal folder with scanned copies of all documents, including license, ADR, CPC, tachograph card, residence permit, work contract, and insurance.
Track all expiry dates. Set reminders 60 to 90 days in advance.
Start Romanian language lessons early. Aim for basic conversational skills within 3 months.
Respect rest times. Your safety record impacts bonuses, promotions, and rehiring prospects.
Network with other drivers. They can alert you to route changes, good rest areas, and best practices for inspections.
Save an emergency fund equal to 2 to 3 months of living costs to handle unexpected delays in permit renewals or vehicle assignments.

Conclusion: Your Road to Romania Starts Now

Romania offers a compelling mix of strong driver demand, EU-standard regulations, and a cost of living that makes your earnings go further. With the right preparation, you can transition from Global to a stable, rewarding role in Romania's transport and logistics industry.

Your next steps:

Target your preferred driver role and city base.
Secure a conditional job offer from a reputable Romanian employer.
Organize documents and begin the employer-led work permit process.
Apply for your D/AM visa, then your residence permit after arrival.
Complete any required license exchange, CPC, tachograph, and ADR steps, and get on the road.

Stay organized, follow the regulations, and invest in your skills. Romania's roads and logistics hubs are ready for reliable, safety-focused professionals like you.

FAQ

1) What visa do I need to work as a driver in Romania?

You will need a long-stay employment visa, commonly referred to as Type D/AM, issued after your Romanian employer obtains a work permit for you. After entering Romania with the D/AM visa, you must apply for a residence permit (Single Permit) with IGI.

2) How long does the work authorization and visa process take?

Timelines vary, but a typical sequence is:

Work permit: 15 to 30 working days once the file is complete
D/AM visa: 10 to 30 days at the consulate, depending on local processing
Residence permit after arrival: several weeks after your appointment and biometrics Plan for 6 to 12 weeks overall, with possible extensions if documents need corrections or extra verification.

3) Do I need to know Romanian to get hired?

Many international logistics firms hire drivers who speak basic English, especially for long-haul CE roles. However, having Romanian helps significantly with depot instructions, roadside checks, and daily life. Some employers provide language support during onboarding.

4) Can I use my foreign driving license in Romania?

EU licenses with Code 95 are recognized.
Non-EU licenses may be exchangeable depending on reciprocity. If not, you must obtain a Romanian license by passing theory and practical exams. Coordinate this with your employer to minimize downtime.

5) What is CPC and Code 95, and do I need it?

CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) is required for professional bus and truck drivers in the EU. Code 95 on your license indicates you hold CPC. If your current qualification is not EU-recognized, you will need to obtain CPC in Romania. Periodic training of 35 hours every 5 years is mandatory.

6) What about tachographs and working time rules?

You must have a valid digital tachograph card issued by ARR and follow EU rules: 9 hours max driving per day (10 hours allowed twice a week), 56 hours max per week, 90 hours over two weeks, and breaks of 45 minutes after every 4 hours 30 minutes of driving. Keep accurate records and never share your card.

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

Domestic CE drivers: around 900 to 1,400 EUR net per month
International long-haul CE: around 1,400 to 2,300 EUR net per month, sometimes higher with ADR or tanker work
City bus drivers: 800 to 1,200 EUR net per month
Delivery drivers: 700 to 1,100 EUR net per month Actual pay depends on employer, route, allowances, and your experience.

8) What is the cost of living in major Romanian cities?

Typical monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment ranges from 300 to 950 EUR depending on city and location. Utilities average 80 to 150 EUR. Food and transport are relatively affordable. Drivers on international routes often have strong savings potential.

9) Can my family join me in Romania?

Yes, after you obtain your residence permit, you may apply for family reunification for a spouse and minor children. You must show adequate accommodation, financial means, and health insurance for family members.

10) Can I change employers after I arrive?

Changing employers is possible but requires updating your work authorization and residence permit. Do not work for a new employer until the legal change is approved. Coordinate carefully to avoid gaps in your status.

11) Do I need ADR certification?

ADR is required only if you will transport hazardous goods. Many long-haul roles do not require ADR, but it can increase your earning potential. Employers that operate tanker or chemical routes often sponsor ADR training.

12) What happens if my visa or residence permit expires?

Working or staying after expiry can lead to fines, removal, and bans. Start renewal procedures early, typically at least 30 days before your permit expires. Keep proof of application and any appointment confirmations.

13) Will Romania's Schengen status affect my routes?

Romania is in the EU. At the time of writing, full Schengen land border arrangements are evolving. Land border checks may still apply. Your employer will brief you on current border procedures and documents required for each route.

14) Are there age limits for professional drivers?

EU medical fitness standards apply. As long as you pass the required medical and psychological evaluations and hold valid CPC and license categories, you can work. Some companies have internal policies for age and insurance, so confirm during hiring.

15) Can I drive internationally from a Romanian base?

Yes. Many Romanian employers run cross-border operations throughout the EU. With a valid tachograph card, CPC, and appropriate license, you can be assigned to international routes as per your contract.