Insurance Requirements for Professional Drivers

Introduction

Relocating from Global to Romania as a professional driver is a smart move if you want European Union work experience, competitive take-home pay, and a more affordable lifestyle. Yet to drive legally and confidently in Romania, you need to understand one topic that touches nearly every mile you travel: insurance. In Romania, road transport is tightly regulated and insurance is at the heart of legal compliance, risk management, and job security. Whether you plan to operate a heavy goods vehicle (HGV), drive a bus or coach, handle last-mile delivery, or run as an owner-operator, the right coverage can protect your livelihood and keep you on the road.

This guide explains the insurance requirements for professional drivers in Romania and ties them into the broader relocation journey. You will learn about mandatory Romanian auto liability (RCA), carrier liability under the CMR Convention, optional but highly recommended policies like CASCO and cargo insurance, plus health, accident, and employer-related protections. Along the way, we will also detail the job market, legal steps to relocate, driving licenses and certifications, salary expectations, cost of living, and practical tips for a smooth start. Use this as your checklist to become fully compliant and well-insured from day one in Romania.

Why Romania?

Romania offers a compelling mix of EU opportunities and cost efficiency that appeals to professional drivers from Global:

• EU membership and market access: Romania is part of the EU single market. Once you are legally employed in Romania, your employer can assign you to international routes across the EU and EEA. Carriers based in Romania often operate in Germany, France, Italy, Hungary, Bulgaria, and beyond.
• Competitive net earnings with lower living costs: While Romania's wage levels are generally lower than Western Europe, drivers on international routes often earn comparable take-home pay due to per diems (diurna) and bonuses, while paying significantly less for rent, groceries, and local services.
• Strong demand for drivers: Logistics and e-commerce have expanded quickly. There is sustained demand for CE long-haul drivers, urban delivery drivers, and passenger transport professionals in major cities.
• Work-life potential: Cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi balance modern amenities with reasonable costs. For drivers who spend time on and off the road, this can translate into a better quality of life.
• Strategic location: Romania is a gateway to Central and Eastern Europe, with growing infrastructure and trade links.

Insurance perspective: Romania's insurance framework is aligned with EU standards and supervised by a national regulator. With proper coverage and documentation, you can run cross-border trips with confidence and meet international client requirements.

Job Market Overview

Romania's transport and logistics sector spans domestic and international operations, with opportunities for different license categories (C, CE, D) and specialist endorsements.

• International truck drivers (CE): The highest demand is for CE category drivers on long-haul and regional EU routes. Many Romanian carriers run fleets that regularly cross multiple borders.
• Domestic distribution (C/CE): Retail and industrial supply chains need drivers for intercity and last-mile distribution. Schedules are often more predictable than international routes.
• Bus and coach drivers (D): Municipal and intercity operators need drivers for city routes, school transport, and charter services.
• Courier and delivery drivers (B and C1): The growth of e-commerce supports van-based roles in major urban centers.

Representative employers and operators in Romania:

• Logistics and trucking: DB Schenker Romania, DSV, Kuehne+Nagel Romania, International Alexander, Aquila, Dumagas, Transmec Romania.
• Parcel and last-mile: Fan Courier, Sameday, Urgent Cargus, DHL Romania.
• Passenger transport: STB (Bucharest), CTP Cluj-Napoca, STPT Timisoara, Compania de Transport Public Iasi.

Insurance perspective: Employers typically cover mandatory vehicle liability (RCA), and reputable carriers maintain CMR liability coverage for international carriage. For owner-operators and subcontractors, you must actively manage your own RCA, CMR, and any optional CASCO/cargo policies.

Legal Requirements

For Global citizens (non-EU/EEA/Swiss), your pathway to working legally in Romania generally follows these steps:

1. Job offer and work permit: Your Romanian employer applies for a work permit (aviz de munca) through the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) once you provide required documents (passport, proof of qualifications, police clearance, medical certificate, etc.).
2. Long-stay visa for employment: With the approved work permit, you apply for a long-stay visa for employment (type D/AM) at a Romanian embassy or consulate in your country of residence.
3. Entry and residence permit: After entering Romania, you must register and apply for a residence permit at IGI. This card confirms your legal right to live and work in Romania.
4. Employment contract and tax registration: Sign an employment contract registered with the labor authorities. Your employer typically helps set up payroll and contributions. You will obtain a tax identification number and be enrolled in the national health system.

Driving laws and enforcement:

• EU road rules: Romania enforces EU Regulations 561/2006 (driving time, breaks, and rest) and 165/2014 (tachographs). Expect regular checks.
• National traffic law: Road traffic is governed by Romanian legislation aligned with EU standards. Roadside checks are performed by police and the State Inspectorate for Road Transport Control (ISCTR).
• Vehicle compliance: All commercial vehicles must hold a valid Romanian or recognized foreign motor third-party liability insurance (RCA or equivalent), plus proof of road tax (rovinieta) where applicable.

Insurance perspective: You cannot legally use a vehicle on public roads in Romania without valid RCA. If you are involved in a crash, lack of RCA can trigger severe penalties, liability exposure, and grounding of operations.

Certification & License Recognition

Recognition depends on your original license and training country.

• EU/EEA licenses: If you hold an EU or EEA driving license, it is generally recognized in Romania. You can continue driving within the categories on your license, but consider exchanging it for a Romanian license if you plan to settle long-term.
• Non-EU licenses: Romania can exchange certain non-EU licenses if there is a bilateral agreement and if your license is valid and meets Romanian standards. Otherwise, you may need to pass theory and practical exams in Romania. Check with the Romanian Driver and Vehicle Authority (DRPCIV) or your local prefecture.
• CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence): If your CPC is issued by an EU authority, it is usually recognized. Non-EU CPC may require retraining or testing in Romania. The Romanian Road Authority (ARR) manages CPC training and periodic refreshers.
• ADR (hazardous goods): ADR certification aligned with the European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road is recognized. If your holder certificate is from a non-recognized jurisdiction, plan to retrain in Romania.
• Digital tachograph card: You must apply for a Romanian driver card if you are employed by a Romanian operator and your foreign card is not acceptable. Applications are processed via Romanian authorities (through ARR channels). Keep your identity documents, photo, license, and medical/psychological fitness certificates ready.
• Medical and psychological fitness: Commercial drivers must meet medical and psychological fitness standards. Periodic checkups are mandatory and usually coordinated by employers.

Insurance perspective: Some insurers may offer better premiums to companies with robust driver training, CPC compliance, and frequent safety refreshers. Your valid recognition of licenses and training contributes to lower risk and smoother claims handling.

Insurance in Romania: Mandatory and Optional Coverages

Insurance is not one-size-fits-all. As a professional driver, your exact policy mix depends on your role (employee vs. owner-operator), vehicle type, and route profile (domestic vs. international).

Mandatory coverage for vehicles: RCA (Motor Third-Party Liability)

• What it is: RCA (Asigurare de Raspundere Civila Auto) is the mandatory motor third-party liability insurance. It covers damages you cause to others while operating the insured vehicle, including property damage and bodily injury/death.
• Who needs it: Every motor vehicle used on public roads in Romania must have valid RCA.
• Coverage limits: Romania follows EU-aligned high limits for bodily injury and property damage. These limits are periodically updated and are generally in the range of several million euros for bodily injury and seven-figure coverage for property damage. Your policy documents will specify exact limits.
• Green Card: For international travel to certain non-EU countries (for example, Serbia, Moldova, Turkey), ensure your insurer issues a Green Card certificate. Within the EEA, proof of RCA is usually enough, but carrying the Green Card can still accelerate checks.
• Enforcement: Authorities check insurance status against national databases and during roadside stops. Driving without RCA can lead to fines, registration suspension, and vehicle impoundment.

Optional but recommended vehicle coverage: CASCO (Comprehensive)

• What it is: CASCO is a voluntary comprehensive policy covering your own vehicle for risks like collision, rollover, theft, vandalism, fire, and natural hazards.
• Why it matters: RCA does not pay for your own vehicle damage. CASCO is crucial for trucks, buses, and high-value equipment.
• Extras: Many CASCO policies include roadside assistance, towing, windscreen coverage, and coverage for accessories (e.g., refrigerating units, GPS).

Carrier liability under CMR

• What it is: The CMR Convention governs international carriage of goods by road. CMR carrier liability insurance covers your legal liability for loss of or damage to cargo under CMR rules.
• Limits and valuation: Liability is typically limited to 8.33 Special Drawing Rights (SDR) per kilogram of lost or damaged cargo, unless you declared higher value with an additional fee. The SDR rate fluctuates against major currencies.
• When required: If you transport goods across international borders under a CMR consignment note, many clients will require proof of CMR insurance before loading.
• Not a substitute for cargo insurance: CMR covers your liability within legal limits, not the full cargo value. Shippers often purchase separate cargo insurance, but carriers can also offer broader cargo coverage.

Goods in transit (cargo) insurance

• What it is: Covers the actual cargo value against physical loss or damage during transit, loading, and unloading, beyond legal liability limits.
• Who buys it: It can be purchased by the carrier, shipper, or freight forwarder, depending on contract terms. Owner-operators sometimes add it for competitive advantage.
• Use case: High-value electronics, pharmaceuticals, and fragile goods.

Passenger liability (for bus and coach)

• What it is: Liability coverage for injury or property damage to passengers during transport operations. It may be structured as an extension to RCA or as a specialized policy depending on the operator and regulatory requirements.
• Why it matters: Passenger transport has heightened duty of care. Municipal tenders and intercity contracts often mandate minimum limits and proof of coverage.

Employer's liability and workers' compensation-like protections

• Employee drivers: Romanian employers are responsible for workplace safety and may hold employer's liability insurance to cover injuries sustained in the line of duty. Employees are enrolled in the national health and social insurance systems through payroll.
• Owner-operators: Consider personal accident and loss-of-income insurance to protect your earnings if you are injured off-duty or during non-culpable incidents.

Personal accident and health insurance

• Personal accident insurance: Provides lump-sum or scheduled benefits for accidental death or disability. Some policies include daily hospital cash, medical expenses, and rehabilitation support.
• Private health insurance: While the national system (CNAS) covers basic healthcare, many expats purchase private health insurance for faster access to clinics and broader services.

Special coverages for ADR (dangerous goods)

• Environmental liability: If you transport hazardous materials, your contracts or regulators may require additional liability or environmental impairment coverage for spills and contamination.
• Equipment and accessories: Ensure your CASCO or separate property policy covers ADR-specific gear (tanks, meters, fittings).

Insurance documents you should carry

• RCA certificate and proof of payment.
• Green Card (if traveling outside the EEA to participating countries).
• CMR insurance certificate and policy details.
• Vehicle registration, technical inspection (ITP), and tachograph calibration records.
• EU accident statement form and contact info for your insurers and fleet manager.

The Claims Process: What to Do After an Incident

Accidents and cargo issues can happen, especially on long international routes. The way you document and report matters for successful claims.

1. Ensure safety first: Stop safely, turn on hazard lights, place warning triangles as required, and call emergency services if needed.
2. Notify authorities: For accidents with injury or major property damage, call the police. For minor fender-benders with only property damage, Romanian law may allow parties to complete a friendly accident report form if both agree.
3. Collect evidence: Take photos of vehicle positions, damage, skid marks, road signs, and cargo seal numbers. Collect witness contacts.
4. Fill the EU accident statement: Complete the form clearly. Use block letters and avoid contradictions. If you are unsure, do not admit fault.
5. Inform your employer and insurers: Report incidents immediately to your fleet manager and the insurer's 24/7 hotline. Delays can jeopardize coverage.
6. Protect cargo: Maintain seal integrity and cooperate with surveyors. For CMR claims, preserve documents (CMR consignment note, delivery receipts, temperature logs).
7. Follow repair and salvage procedures: Use approved service networks. Keep invoices and repair authorizations.

Tip: Many fleets provide an in-cab accident kit including forms, a disposable camera (or phone instructions), and a step-by-step checklist. Ask for training on how to complete CMR damage reservations at delivery.

Driving Regulations and Insurance Interplay

• EU driving and rest times: Regulation 561/2006 sets the standard limits: typically up to 9 hours of driving per day (can extend to 10 hours twice per week), weekly driving up to 56 hours, and a maximum of 90 hours over two consecutive weeks. Breaks of at least 45 minutes after 4.5 hours of driving are mandatory; daily rest is usually 11 hours (can be reduced under conditions), and weekly rest is typically 45 hours.
• Tachographs: Regulation 165/2014 governs tachograph use. New smart tachographs support cross-border enforcement. Always use your driver card correctly and keep spare printouts.
• Romanian road tax (rovinieta): For vehicles that require it, hold a valid vignette (digital rovinieta) for national roads. Heavy vehicles have category-based fees. Keep proof of validity.
• Winter conditions: Romania requires winter tires when roads are covered with snow, ice, or frost. Heavy vehicles may be required to carry snow chains on certain routes. Inadequate equipment can lead to fines and liability.
• Speed and signage: Romania drives on the right. Observe posted limits, especially category-specific limits for heavy vehicles. Speeding violations can affect insurance premiums and claims outcomes.

Insurance perspective: Non-compliance with driving hours, winter tire rules, or load securing standards can expose you and your employer to liability and claim denials. Insurers look for evidence of due diligence and legal compliance when adjusting claims.

Salary & Benefits

Salaries vary by route type, employer size, and experience. The following figures are indicative, with EUR to RON approximated at 1 EUR = 4.95 RON.

• Long-haul CE international drivers: Approximately 1,600 to 2,800 EUR per month total package, including base salary plus per diems and bonuses (about 7,900 to 13,900 RON). Drivers on premium routes or with ADR can reach higher totals.
• Domestic CE drivers: Around 900 to 1,400 EUR per month (about 4,450 to 6,930 RON), sometimes with overtime or performance bonuses.
• City bus drivers (public operators): Roughly 700 to 1,200 EUR per month (3,465 to 5,940 RON), plus meal vouchers and shift allowances depending on the city.
• Courier/van drivers: Typically 600 to 1,000 EUR per month (2,970 to 4,950 RON), with potential for performance-based pay.

Common benefits:

• Per diems (diurna) on international routes, often tax-advantaged under Romanian rules.
• Meal vouchers (tichete de masa).
• Private health clinic subscriptions.
• Paid CPC periodic training.
• Accident insurance and employer's liability coverage.
• CASCO and RCA are provided on company vehicles. Owner-operators must budget for both.

Taxes and deductions:

• Romania applies a flat income tax rate, and employees contribute to pension and health systems via payroll. Your net pay depends on your base, per diems, and applicable contributions. Employers can explain how per diems are structured to maximize net income within legal limits.

Insurance perspective: Clarify which policies are employer-funded and which are your responsibility. For example, an employer usually provides RCA and CASCO for its trucks, plus CMR on international loads. If you are subcontracted or an owner-operator, confirm the minimums required by contract and price your bids accordingly.

Cost of Living

Romania's cost of living is favorable compared with Western Europe. Budget ranges below are estimates and can change with market conditions.

Housing (monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment):

• Bucharest: 400 to 700 EUR depending on the neighborhood; 2-bedroom apartments often 600 to 1,000 EUR.
• Cluj-Napoca: 350 to 600 EUR; popular with students and tech workers.
• Timisoara: 300 to 500 EUR; stable demand and modern amenities.
• Iasi: 300 to 450 EUR; generally more affordable than Bucharest and Cluj.

Utilities:

• 80 to 150 EUR per month for electricity, heating, water, and internet, depending on the season and apartment size.

Groceries and dining:

• Monthly groceries for one person: 150 to 250 EUR.
• Lunch menus: 6 to 10 EUR; inexpensive restaurants: 8 to 15 EUR per person.

Transport and fuel:

• Urban transport pass: 15 to 25 EUR per month depending on the city network and coverage (bus, trams, metro in Bucharest).
• Fuel: Prices vary; plan 1.5 to 1.7 EUR per liter as a working estimate. Fleet drivers typically use company fuel cards.

Insurance perspective: Many private insurers offer expat-friendly health policies with monthly premiums that are modest compared to Western EU prices. CASCO premiums for commercial vehicles vary by vehicle value, claims history, and security measures.

Cultural Integration

Moving to Romania comes with a warm culture, direct communication, and a practical business approach.

• Language basics: Romanian is a Romance language. Learning essentials like greetings, directions, and numbers will help with roadside checks, service stations, and depot staff. Younger people in cities often speak English; in rural areas, communication may be mostly in Romanian.
• Workplace culture: Punctuality, respect for hierarchy, and clear documentation are valued. Drivers are expected to keep logs, delivery notes, and vehicle condition reports accurate and up to date.
• Safety culture: Companies increasingly invest in safety briefings, winter driving refreshers, and ADR training. Engage with these; it can improve your insurance profile and professional reputation.

Useful phrases:

• Buna ziua (Hello)
• Multumesc (Thank you)
• Va rog (Please)
• Asigurare (Insurance)
• Polita RCA (RCA policy)
• Carte Verde (Green Card)
• Acte (Documents)
• Permis de conducere (Driving license)

Practical Steps to Relocate

Follow this step-by-step plan to relocate and get insured correctly:

1. Research employers and roles

   • Identify whether you want domestic, regional EU, or long-haul routes.
   • Prioritize employers that clearly state their insurance coverage and compliance support.

2. Secure a job offer

   • Prepare your CV highlighting categories (C, CE, D), CPC/ADR, tachograph experience, and cross-border routes.
   • Ask about insurance specifics: RCA provider, CASCO coverage, CMR limits, breakdown assistance, and accident procedures.

3. Work permit and visa

   • Provide documentation to your employer for the work permit application (aviz de munca).
   • Apply for the long-stay employment visa (D/AM) at a Romanian consulate.

4. Arrange temporary accommodation

   • Book short-term housing in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, or Iasi depending on your base depot.
   • Compare commute to your yard or terminal.

5. Arrive and register

   • Obtain your residence permit from IGI.
   • Get your tax and social security registration via your employer.

6. License and certification

   • Verify if your foreign license can be used or exchanged. Schedule any needed theory/practical tests with DRPCIV.
   • Align CPC periodic training with ARR-approved centers. Update ADR if applicable.
   • Apply for a Romanian tachograph driver card if required.

7. Insurance onboarding

   • If employed: Collect proof of RCA, CASCO, and CMR from your fleet. Save emergency numbers in your phone.
   • If owner-operator: Purchase RCA from an authorized Romanian insurer; add CASCO for your asset; secure CMR and, if needed, cargo insurance and ADR/environmental extensions.

8. Vehicle and documents checklist

   • Registration, technical inspection (ITP), tachograph calibration, RCA certificate, Green Card (if applicable), CMR certificate, EU accident form, first-aid kit, warning triangles, fire extinguisher.

9. Learn the routes and seasons

   • Plan for mountain passes and winter equipment. Save road administration and weather alert apps.

10. Banking and finances

• Open a Romanian bank account for payroll.
• Understand per diem rules and how your net is calculated.

Common Challenges and How Insurance Helps

• Driving on the right: If you come from a left-driving country, practice in low-traffic conditions. CASCO coverage is valuable during the adaptation period.
• Winter driving: Black ice and heavy snow can cause incidents. CASCO helps with own-vehicle damage, while RCA protects you if you unintentionally harm third parties. Ensure you have winter tires and chains.
• Toll systems and vignettes: The rovinieta is checked electronically. Fines for missing vignettes are costly and not covered by insurance. Keep proof of purchase.
• EU working time directives: Tachograph infringements can lead to fines and contractual penalties. Repeated infringements may increase insurance costs and risk contract termination.
• Cross-border documentation: Misfiled CMR notes can complicate claims. Get trained on how to note visible damage upon loading and to enter reservations on delivery.

Insurance Costs and Shopping Tips

Premiums depend on vehicle class, driver age and experience, claims history, operating region, and security measures.

• RCA pricing: Regulated framework under Romanian financial supervision. Compare multiple insurers for price and claims service reputation.
• CASCO pricing: Influenced by vehicle value, deductible, geographic scope, and risk mitigations (alarms, immobilizers, parking security). Consider higher deductibles to lower premiums.
• CMR premiums: Based on turnover, route mix, cargo types, and loss history. Ask brokers for quotes with different limits and exclusions.
• Package policies: Fleet operators can bundle RCA, CASCO, CMR, and assistance for better terms.

Tips:

• Use reputable insurers licensed in Romania and verify their authorization.
• Request English-language policy schedules if you are not comfortable in Romanian.
• Confirm roadside assistance coverage across your operating countries.
• Check whether glass claims or minor bodywork affect your no-claims bonus.
• For ADR, confirm spill response and cleanup cover is explicitly included.

City Snapshots for Drivers

• Bucharest: Romania's largest logistics hub with many depots and international routes. Housing costs are the highest, but job availability is strong. Public transport includes bus, tram, and metro networks.
• Cluj-Napoca: Growing tech and logistics presence. Airport connectivity and a strong warehouse cluster serve Transylvania and western EU corridors.
• Timisoara: Western gateway near Hungary and Serbia, ideal for EU regional routes. Industrial parks attract steady freight volumes.
• Iasi: Eastern hub with rising e-commerce activity and cross-border links to Moldova. Lower housing costs and expanding transport services.

Insurance perspective: In larger cities, insurers have broader partner networks for repairs and faster claims handling. In smaller towns, confirm your insurer's service reach and 24/7 hotline support.

Success Tips from Other Expats

• Document discipline: Keep digital scans of your RCA, CASCO, CMR, and Green Card on your phone and cloud storage. Roadside checks are smoother when documents are at hand.
• Learn key Romanian terms: Even modest language skills help at weigh stations, service garages, and customs checkpoints.
• Engage in training: ADR, defensive driving, and cargo securing courses reduce incidents and improve employability.
• Maintain your vehicle: Daily walkaround checks catch small issues before they become claims. Insurers and employers appreciate proactive maintenance.
• Ask about per diem rules: Understand how per diems influence your net pay and how days away are calculated.
• Join driver communities: Expats share tips about border crossings, rest areas, and insurers that handle claims fairly.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Romania offers professional drivers from Global a powerful mix of EU access, strong demand, and affordable living. To make the most of it, treat insurance as a core part of your toolkit. Secure mandatory RCA, consider CASCO to protect your asset, and ensure proper CMR liability for international cargo. Add personal accident and private health coverage for peace of mind. Align your CPC, ADR, and tachograph credentials, and follow EU driving rules rigorously.

Ready to start? Shortlist employers in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi, ask precise insurance questions during interviews, and map your relocation step by step. With the right coverage and compliance mindset, you will build a stable, well-paid driving career in Romania.

FAQ

1) What is RCA and is it truly mandatory in Romania?

Yes. RCA is Romania's mandatory motor third-party liability insurance. It covers damage and injury you cause to others while operating the insured vehicle. Every vehicle on public roads must carry valid RCA. Police and road inspectors can verify coverage instantly, and driving without RCA can lead to fines, registration suspension, and impoundment.

2) I plan to drive internationally. Do I need a Green Card?

Within the EU/EEA, your RCA is generally recognized, and a Green Card is often not required. However, for travel to certain non-EEA countries such as Serbia, Moldova, or Turkey, a Green Card is typically needed. Ask your insurer to issue the Green Card and verify the list of covered countries before departure.

3) What is the difference between CMR insurance and cargo insurance?

CMR insurance covers the carrier's legal liability for international carriage under the CMR Convention, typically limited to 8.33 SDR per kg of cargo. Cargo insurance, on the other hand, insures the actual value of goods against physical loss or damage. CMR does not guarantee full cargo value compensation; cargo insurance can. Many contracts recommend or require both.

4) Does CASCO cover every kind of damage to my vehicle?

CASCO typically covers own-vehicle damage from collision, theft, vandalism, fire, and natural events. Policies vary by insurer. Some exclude wear and tear, mechanical failures, or certain accessories unless declared. Review deductibles and optional add-ons like windshield cover, roadside assistance, and coverage for refrigerated units.

5) I have a non-EU driving license. Can I work as a driver in Romania?

It depends. Romania exchanges some non-EU licenses based on bilateral agreements. If your license cannot be exchanged, you may need to take Romanian theory and practical exams. You also need to ensure CPC recognition or complete CPC training in Romania. Start the process early with DRPCIV and ARR, and coordinate with your employer.

6) Who is responsible for paying for CMR insurance, the carrier or the shipper?

Usually the carrier maintains CMR liability insurance because the legal liability falls on the carrier under the CMR Convention. However, contract terms can vary. Shippers often buy cargo insurance for full-value protection. Review your contracts carefully: some clients will not release a load without seeing your CMR certificate and limits.

7) How do winter tires and chains affect insurance?

Romanian law requires winter tires when roads are covered with snow, ice, or frost; heavy vehicles may need chains on certain routes. If you cause an accident while improperly equipped, insurers may scrutinize the claim and penalties may apply. Proper tires and chains reduce both risk and hassle.

8) What should I do immediately after a crash in Romania?

Ensure safety, call emergency services if needed, notify police for injuries or serious damage, take photos, collect witness details, and complete the EU accident statement. Inform your fleet and insurers right away. Do not admit fault at the scene. For cargo, preserve seals and documents and cooperate with surveyors.

9) Are per diems taxable in Romania?

Per diems (diurna) paid for travel days can be tax-efficient within regulated limits. Employers structure them to be partially or fully non-taxable up to caps. Your HR or payroll department can explain the thresholds so you understand your net pay correctly.

10) Can I get private health insurance as an expat driver?

Yes. In addition to coverage through Romania's national health system via your employment, many insurers offer private health plans that provide faster access to clinics, specialist consultations, and diagnostic tests. Premiums are generally lower than in Western Europe and can be a good complement to public coverage.

11) What Romanian institutions should I know as a driver?

• IGI: Immigration for work permits and residence.
• DRPCIV: Driver licensing and testing.
• ARR: Road authority for CPC, operator licensing, and tachograph card processes.
• ISCTR: Road transport inspections and enforcement.
• ASF: Financial supervision of insurers.
• CNAIR: Road administration and rovinieta system.

12) As an owner-operator, which policies are non-negotiable?

At minimum: RCA for every vehicle, CMR liability for international carriage, and, strongly recommended, CASCO for your own asset. Depending on your cargo, add cargo insurance and ADR-specific environmental liability extensions. For personal protection, include accident and income protection insurance.