Understanding International Driving Laws and Regulations

Introduction

Relocating from Global to Romania as a professional driver can be one of the most rewarding career moves you make. Romania sits at the crossroads of East and West within the European Union, offering access to major transport corridors, growing logistics hubs, and a vibrant market for freight and passenger services. Whether you drive heavy goods vehicles, passenger coaches, or last mile delivery vans, understanding international driving laws and regulations is the foundation for a smooth transition.

In this guide, we unpack the legal and compliance essentials that international drivers need to know before starting work in Romania. From EU driver CPC rules and digital tachographs to Romanian work permits, license recognition, ADR certification, and practical on-the-road requirements, you will find concrete steps and examples to help you relocate with confidence. We also cover salaries, cost of living, and everyday life so you can set realistic expectations and plan effectively.

Why Romania?

Romania brings together a strategic EU location, competitive salary potential, and a comparatively low cost of living. For Global drivers, these advantages translate to real career and life benefits.

EU membership and market access: Romania is an EU member state and part of the single market. Once you are legally employed and licensed, you gain access to international trucking routes across the EU and to neighboring non-EU markets where AETR rules apply. Major corridors connect Romania with Hungary, Bulgaria, Serbia, and beyond.
Lower cost of living: While driver salaries are competitive by regional standards, living costs in cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi are generally lower than in Western Europe. This improves your net savings potential, especially if your work includes international allowances.
High driver demand: Logistics growth, expanding industrial zones, and e-commerce have created ongoing demand for C, CE, and D category drivers. Employers range from large fleet operators to niche carriers, bus companies, and urban delivery services.
Quality of life: Romania offers a blend of urban amenities, scenic countryside, and a pace of life that many expats find appealing. Drivers appreciate diverse routes, from the Carpathian mountains to Black Sea corridors, and the chance to balance work and rest in affordable, friendly cities.

Job Market Overview

Romania's transportation and logistics sector has roles for a wide range of driving profiles. The strongest demand is for professional categories C, CE, and D, but B category drivers also find opportunities in courier and urban delivery.

High-demand roles

International HGV driver (C+E): Long-haul routes to Western Europe, the Balkans, and regional hubs. Employers often provide per diem allowances, accommodation support during weekly rest, and performance bonuses.
Domestic HGV driver (C): Regional and national line-haul, distribution to retail networks, and intercity transfers. Predictable schedules are common, with overnight stays depending on routes.
Coach and bus driver (D): Urban operations in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi, intercity coach lines, and tourist charter services. City operators provide structured shifts and benefits.
ADR driver: Hazardous goods transport within Romania and cross-border. ADR-certified drivers earn higher pay and may have targeted rosters.
Delivery van driver (B, extended to 2.5t+ vans for certain EU rules): Last mile delivery and express courier services in major cities, sometimes leading to CE upskilling programs.

Typical employers

Logistics and trucking companies: Regional and pan-European carriers with mixed fleets and international depots.
3PL and 4PL providers: Contractors for retail, FMCG, and industrial supply chains.
Bus and coach operators: Municipal transport companies, private charter businesses, and intercity service providers.
Courier and parcel services: E-commerce distribution, same-day delivery, and warehouse-to-door operations.

Where the jobs are

Bucharest: The largest market with major distribution centers, airport cargo operations, and public transport opportunities.
Cluj-Napoca: A growing tech and logistics hub serving Transylvania and northwestern corridors.
Timisoara: Strategic location near the Hungarian and Serbian borders with strong cross-border freight flows.
Iasi: Eastern gateway with increasing investment in logistics and links to Moldova and Ukraine corridors.

Legal Requirements

If you are a Global citizen relocating to Romania, plan your immigration and work authorization early. Romania requires a valid work permit and visa for non-EU nationals before starting employment.

Work authorization overview

Work permit: Your Romanian employer typically applies for your work permit through the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI). There is an annual national quota, so starting early is wise. The employer must show that you have the required professional qualifications and a valid employment contract.
Long-stay visa for employment: After the work permit is approved, you apply for a long-stay visa for employment (visa type commonly labeled D for employment) at the Romanian consulate in your country of residence. You will need your work permit, passport, criminal record certificate, proof of accommodation, medical insurance, and fees.
Residence permit: After entering Romania on your D visa, you must apply for a residence permit with the IGI. This card confirms your right to live and work in Romania for the duration of your contract.

Documents you should prepare

Passport valid for the required period
Work permit approval issued to your employer
Long-stay employment visa issued by the Romanian consulate
Employment contract and job offer specifying role and salary
Criminal record certificate from your country of residence
Medical insurance for visa application, and then enrollment in the Romanian system
Proof of accommodation in Romania
Driving license, CPC or Code 95 evidence, tachograph driver card, ADR certificate if applicable
Translations and notarizations where required (Romanian language translation is commonly required)

Employment compliance

Contract registration: Your employer registers your contract with Romanian authorities. Keep a signed copy and verify start date and probation period clauses.
Tax and social contributions: Romania applies income tax and social contributions. Employers withhold and declare these. Keep your pay slips and understand your diurna or per diem allowances.
Posting and cabotage: If your routes include other EU states, your employer may need to register postings and comply with EU Mobility Package rules on remuneration and reporting in other member states.

Certification and License Recognition

Professional drivers must ensure their licenses and qualifications meet EU and Romanian standards.

Driving license categories

C: Rigid trucks over 3.5 tonnes
CE: Combination vehicles with trailers over 750 kg
D: Buses and coaches for passenger transport
B: Cars and light vans up to 3.5 tonnes

If your license was issued in a non-EU country, the path to recognition depends on reciprocity agreements and Romanian procedures.

License exchange or re-test

Exchange agreements: Romania, through its driver licensing authority DRPCIV, may exchange certain non-EU licenses without a full re-test. This varies by country and category. Check current reciprocity lists before applying.
If exchange is not possible: You must undergo medical and psychological checks, theory exams, and a practical test in Romania for the categories you seek. Some drivers opt to re-test directly for CE or D to align with EU standards.

CPC and Code 95

In the EU, professional drivers must hold a Certificate of Professional Competence, commonly displayed as Code 95 on the driving license. Requirements include:

Initial qualification: Standard or accelerated training with exams. The accelerated route is typically around 140 hours, followed by a test.
Periodic training: 35 hours every 5 years to maintain Code 95.

If you hold a non-EU qualification, you may need to complete EU initial qualification or periodic training in Romania or another EU country. Training and exams are provided by authorized centers, and the Romanian Road Authority (Autoritatea Rutiera Romana, ARR) oversees professional competence frameworks.

Tachograph cards and training

Digital tachograph driver card: Required for vehicles equipped with digital tachographs. Apply in Romania once you have residence and employment. Keep your card secure and understand how to record activities correctly.
Smart tachograph evolution: EU rules are introducing newer smart tachograph versions. Drivers must understand border crossing recording, ferry or train mode, and manual entries when card is missing or malfunctioning.
Training: Employers and training centers offer courses on tachograph use, data downloads, and compliance with EU rules.

ADR certification

ADR certification covers the transport of dangerous goods by road. Key points:

Basic and specialization modules: Tankers, classes of dangerous goods, and special operations.
Validity and renewal: Typically 5 years with refresher training and examination.
Recognition: ADR is governed by an international agreement. A valid ADR certificate from another signatory country is usually recognized, but check whether an exchange or additional endorsement is needed in Romania. Employers can guide you based on cargo types.

EU and International Road Transport Rules You Must Know

Romania applies EU road transport rules. When you cross into non-EU AETR signatory countries, AETR rules apply outside the EU. Fortunately, EU Regulation 561 and AETR are broadly aligned.

Driving and rest times

Daily driving limits: Generally up to 9 hours, extendable to 10 hours twice a week.
Weekly driving limit: 56 hours.
Two-week driving limit: 90 hours over any two consecutive weeks.
Daily rest: Normally at least 11 hours, which may be split, with specific minimums and conditions.
Weekly rest: Regular weekly rest of 45 hours; reduced weekly rest of at least 24 hours allowed with compensation in a future week.
Regular weekly rest in cabin: Not permitted. For the 45-hour rest, adequate accommodation must be arranged off the vehicle. Many Romanian employers organize hotels or reimburse costs.

Working time rules for mobile workers

Average weekly working time: 48 hours on average over a reference period, with a maximum of 60 hours in a single week.
Night work: Stricter limits may apply during night periods.
Breaks: At least 45 minutes break after 4 hours and 30 minutes of driving, which can be split into 15 minutes plus 30 minutes.

Tachographs and record keeping

Keep tachograph records for inspections and employer audits.
Manual entries: When you cannot use the card, make manual entries according to instructions.
Border crossings: Smart tachographs require recording border crossings; follow the device prompts.

Vehicle weights and dimensions

Comply with national limits on axle loads and total vehicle length and height.
Enforcement: Romania's road transport inspectorate (ISCTR) conducts roadside checks and weighings, especially on major corridors.

Cabotage and posting rules

Cabotage: Time-limited domestic transport operations in another EU country are regulated. Overstepping these limits can lead to fines.
Posting of drivers: Employers must comply with local pay elements during posting and submit declarations where required. You should carry posting documentation when applicable.

Romanian Road Rules and On-the-Ground Compliance

Understanding national rules helps avoid fines and downtime.

Side of the road and core rules

Driving side: Romania drives on the right.
Seat belts: Mandatory for driver and passengers.
Mobile phones: Use only hands-free equipment while driving.
Alcohol and drugs: Strict zero tolerance approach. Any detectable alcohol can lead to severe penalties. Professional drivers should treat the limit as zero.

Speed limits (general guidance)

Cars and light vans: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on national roads, 100 km/h on expressways, 130 km/h on motorways.
Heavy goods vehicles: Lower limits may apply, often 50 km/h urban, 70 to 90 km/h outside built-up areas depending on road type and vehicle class.
Buses and coaches: Specific limits apply; always follow posted signs and company policies.

Winter driving and equipment

Winter tires: Mandatory when roads are covered with snow, ice, or black ice. This is not fixed by date but by road condition. For trucks, ensure M+S or 3PMSF tires and appropriate tread depth.
Snow chains: May be required on designated mountain routes and during heavy snow. Follow signage and company procedures.
Safety kit: Commercial vehicles must carry warning triangles, reflective vests, first aid kits, and fire extinguishers. Check employer equipment policies and Romanian requirements before each trip.

Toll systems and vignettes

Rovinieta: Romania uses an electronic road vignette for national roads. It applies to both light and heavy vehicles, with prices varying by vehicle category and period (from 7 days to 12 months). Purchase online or at authorized points. Fines for missing vignettes are significant.
Additional tolls: Certain bridges and motorway sections have separate tolls. For example, Danube crossings may require an extra toll. Heavy vehicles may face different rates than light vehicles.
Documentation: Keep proof of e-vignette purchase and toll receipts for inspections and company reimbursement.

Inspections and enforcement

Authorities: ISCTR performs roadside inspections. Police may also conduct checks for speed, documentation, and vehicle condition.
What to carry: Driving license with appropriate categories, Code 95 evidence, tachograph card, certificate of professional competence if separately issued, ADR certificate if applicable, vehicle registration, insurance, CMR consignment notes for freight, and posting declarations if required.
Penalties: Fines can be imposed for missing documentation, rest and driving time breaches, overweight, defective equipment, or lack of vignette. Employers often assist with appeals, but prevention is the best approach.

Salary and Benefits

Compensation for professional drivers in Romania varies by role, route type, and employer size. Figures below are indicative and can change based on market conditions, experience, and certifications.

International HGV drivers (C+E)

Base net salary: Approximately 1,000 to 1,600 EUR per month (about 5,000 to 8,000 RON), depending on experience and employer.
Allowances and per diems: International trips often include daily allowances that can bring total take-home pay to 1,800 to 2,800 EUR or more in strong months. Per diems are subject to Romanian tax rules, with certain portions non-taxable up to regulatory limits.
Bonuses: Performance bonuses for fuel efficiency, incident-free months, and on-time deliveries.

Domestic HGV drivers (C)

Net salary: Approximately 700 to 1,200 EUR per month (about 3,500 to 6,000 RON), depending on shift pattern and region.
Benefits: Meal vouchers, overtime pay, and occasional overnight allowances.

Bus and coach drivers (D)

Net salary: Approximately 800 to 1,300 EUR per month (about 4,000 to 6,500 RON). Urban operators in Bucharest may offer higher packages including overtime, night shifts, or Sunday premiums.
Extras: Uniforms, training paid by the employer, and stable schedules.

Delivery and van drivers (B or C1)

Net salary: Approximately 600 to 1,000 EUR per month (about 3,000 to 5,000 RON), with bonuses for delivery targets.
Growth pathway: Many employers sponsor upskilling to C and CE with training commitments.

Additional considerations

ADR premium: ADR-certified drivers often receive higher base pay and allowances due to specialized cargo.
Accommodation during rest: For regular weekly rests outside Romania, some companies pay hotel costs or provide a per-night rate.
Insurance and benefits: Employers may provide private medical coverage, accident insurance, and retirement contributions in addition to mandatory social insurance.

Cost of Living

Romania's cost of living remains attractive compared to Western Europe. Below are typical monthly expenses for single drivers renting a one-bedroom apartment. Values are approximate and depend on lifestyle.

Housing

Bucharest: 400 to 700 EUR for a one-bedroom apartment in a good area. Shared accommodation can reduce costs to 250 to 400 EUR per person.
Cluj-Napoca: 400 to 650 EUR for a one-bedroom near the center or tech hubs.
Timisoara: 300 to 550 EUR with good options near industrial parks.
Iasi: 300 to 500 EUR with affordable neighborhoods and university areas.

Utilities and internet

Utilities: 80 to 150 EUR per month for a one-bedroom, higher in winter due to heating.
Internet and mobile: 10 to 20 EUR for high-speed internet; mobile plans start around 6 to 10 EUR with generous data.

Food and daily expenses

Groceries: 150 to 250 EUR per month for a single person.
Eating out: 6 to 12 EUR for a basic restaurant meal; 2 to 4 EUR for a coffee and snack.
Fuel: Diesel generally ranges close to 1.3 to 1.6 EUR per liter depending on market conditions.

Transport

Public transport pass: 10 to 20 EUR per month depending on the city.
Intercity travel: Coaches and trains are affordable; company transfers are common for drivers reporting to depots.

Savings potential

International drivers in Romania can save a meaningful portion of income, especially when allowances are substantial. Budgeting for taxes, training renewals, and occasional home travel will help you maintain steady savings.

Cultural Integration

Romanian workplaces balance professionalism with a friendly, team-oriented culture. Understanding some language and business norms will make your integration smoother.

Language basics

The Romanian language uses Latin script and shares words with other Romance languages.
Learning basic phrases for greetings, directions, and documentation helps during inspections, deliveries, and depot check-ins.
Many dispatchers and managers speak English, especially in larger fleets, but Romanian opens more opportunities and eases everyday life.

Common phrases to start with:

Buna ziua: Good day
Multumesc: Thank you
Va rog: Please
Unde este: Where is
Acte: Documents
Marfa: Cargo
Vama: Customs
Odihna: Rest

Work culture and expectations

Punctuality: On-time reporting for shifts and loading slots is essential.
Documentation: Meticulous paperwork is valued. Keep copies of key documents and follow company SOPs.
Safety and compliance: Romanian carriers emphasize EU compliance, especially on tachographs, rest times, and vehicle checks. Expect regular briefings and audits.
Communication: Straightforward, respectful communication works best. Report issues early, such as vehicle faults or route delays.

Everyday life

Friendly communities: Neighbors and colleagues are generally welcoming when you make an effort with the language.
Food and traditions: Local markets, hearty cuisine, and seasonal festivals make off-duty time enjoyable.
Banking and bills: Open a Romanian bank account to receive salary and pay rent. Online banking is widespread.

Practical Steps to Relocate

Follow this step-by-step plan to move from Global to Romania with minimal stress.

Research employers and roles
- Decide between international CE routes, domestic C distribution, D passenger services, or ADR specialization.
- Compare employer policies on accommodation for weekly rest, per diems, training support, and truck assignments.
Verify your eligibility and documents
- Check if your driving license can be exchanged or if you must re-test in Romania.
- Gather proof of qualifications, employment references, and clean driving record.
- Translate and notarize documents as required.
Secure a job offer
- Interview with Romanian carriers or logistics companies. Many recruit internationally and offer relocation assistance.
- Receive a written job offer outlining role, pay, per diems, and contract length.
Employer applies for your work permit
- The Romanian employer submits your documents to IGI. This can take several weeks.
- Prepare for potential requests for additional information.
Apply for your long-stay employment visa
- With the work permit approved, apply at the Romanian consulate. Provide passport, health insurance, proof of accommodation, and criminal record certificate.
- Pay the visa fee and attend any required interview.
Plan your move
- Arrange temporary accommodation near your depot in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, or Iasi.
- Budget for initial costs: rent deposit, first month rent, phone plan, transport card.
Arrive and register residence
- Enter Romania on your D visa and apply for your residence permit at IGI.
- Register your address and obtain your residence card.
Complete licensing and training requirements
- Exchange your license if eligible or schedule tests for C, CE, or D as needed.
- Enroll in EU CPC Code 95 training if required and obtain your driver qualification card or license code.
- Apply for your digital tachograph card in Romania.
- If applicable, enroll in ADR training and obtain certification.
Onboard with your employer
- Attend company induction covering safety, tachograph policies, route management, fuel cards, and breakdown procedures.
- Receive PPE, safety kit, and vehicle allocation.
Start driving with mentorship if offered
- Many employers pair new hires with a mentor or coordinator for the first weeks.
- Keep detailed notes of company procedures and local routes.

Success Tips from Other Expats

Know your regulations: Keep a checklist of EU driving times, rest rules, and tachograph procedures. A laminated card in your cab helps during long trips.
Master the tachograph: Practice manual entries, ferry mode, and border recording before your first long-haul.
Track your documents: Maintain a folder with copies of your license, Code 95, tachograph card, ADR certificate, work contract, residence permit, and e-vignette receipts.
Plan winter routes: In mountain corridors, check weather forecasts and chain requirements. Carry warm clothing and emergency supplies.
Leverage per diems: Understand how diurna is calculated and what receipts you must keep. Ask payroll to explain your payslip line by line.
Learn basic Romanian: Even a few phrases can speed up checkpoints and depot interactions.
Choose the right city: If you want international routes, Bucharest and Timisoara offer strong cross-border options. For a balanced lifestyle, Cluj-Napoca and Iasi are popular.
Network: Join driver groups and forums with Romania-based expats to share route tips and employer experiences.
Keep compliance first: Romanian enforcement is professional and fair when you follow rules. Stay ahead with proactive vehicle checks and rest planning.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Romania offers international drivers from Global a compelling mix of EU-standard careers, affordable living, and access to the broader European market. With a clear plan for work authorization, license recognition, CPC and ADR compliance, and on-the-ground knowledge of Romanian rules, you can transition smoothly and build a stable, well-paid career.

If you are ready to take the next step, start by shortlisting Romanian employers in your target city and route type, confirm your licensing pathway with DRPCIV and ARR, and map out your visa timeline with IGI. With preparation and the insights in this guide, your move to Romania can be efficient, compliant, and rewarding.

FAQ

1) Can I exchange my non-EU driving license in Romania without re-testing?

It depends on whether Romania has an exchange agreement with your license-issuing country and category. DRPCIV maintains current lists of countries and categories eligible for exchange. If your country is recognized for your categories, you can exchange after passing medical and administrative checks. If not, you will need to take theory and practical exams in Romania. Many drivers plan for CE or D re-testing to align fully with EU standards.

2) What is Code 95 and do I need it before I start working?

Code 95 is the EU mark on your driving license indicating you hold a valid Certificate of Professional Competence for professional driving. Without Code 95, you cannot legally drive for hire and reward in the relevant categories. If your current qualification is non-EU, plan to complete the EU initial qualification or periodic training in Romania. Employers often assist with scheduling training soon after arrival, but you must hold Code 95 before starting professional duties.

3) How do I get a Romanian digital tachograph card?

Once you have a residence permit and employment, apply through the Romanian issuing authority for tachograph cards. You will need identification, proof of residence, a passport-style photo if required, and a fee. Processing times vary, so apply early. Your employer may provide guidance and a letter confirming employment.

4) Are ADR certificates from my home country recognized in Romania?

ADR is governed by an international agreement. If your home country is a contracting party and your certificate is valid, recognition is typically straightforward. However, some employers prefer or require that you hold an ADR certificate issued or endorsed locally to simplify audits. If in doubt, take a refresher or conversion course with a Romanian authorized training center so your documentation aligns with local expectations.

5) What are the main EU driving and rest rules I must follow?

Key points include a maximum of 9 hours daily driving (extendable to 10 hours twice a week), 56 hours weekly driving, and 90 hours over two weeks. Take a 45-minute break after 4 hours 30 minutes of driving, either in one block or split into 15 minutes plus 30 minutes. Daily rest is usually at least 11 hours, and weekly rest includes a regular 45-hour period. Regular weekly rest cannot be taken in the vehicle; arrange proper accommodation.

6) How do Romanian tolls and vignettes work for trucks?

Romania uses an electronic vignette called rovinieta for road use on national roads. Prices and validity periods vary by vehicle class. Heavy vehicles may also face separate tolls for certain bridges and motorway sections. Purchase the vignette online or at authorized outlets, keep proof of purchase, and follow your company's reimbursement rules. Missing a valid vignette can result in significant fines.

7) What are realistic net salaries for international CE drivers in Romania?

International CE drivers typically earn a base net salary around 1,000 to 1,600 EUR per month, plus per diems that can increase take-home pay to 1,800 to 2,800 EUR or more depending on route length, nights out, and performance. ADR, specialized cargo, and high-demand lanes can push earnings higher. Always confirm whether figures quoted by employers include or exclude allowances.

8) Do I need winter tires in Romania and when?

Winter tires are required when road conditions are wintry, such as snow, ice, or black ice, regardless of date. For heavy vehicles, ensure appropriate M+S or 3PMSF tires and carry chains when mountain routes or signage require them. Employers typically set seasonal policies and equip fleets accordingly, but you must check your vehicle before departure.

9) Can I bring my family to Romania and enroll my children in school?

Yes. After you obtain your residence permit, you can apply for family reunion for your spouse and dependent children. Public education is available, and major cities have schools with foreign language programs. Ensure your accommodation and financial means meet the requirements for family reunion, and prepare translated civil documents.

10) Will my working hours be limited by EU rules even on local Romanian routes?

Yes. EU working time and driving time rules apply in Romania as they do across the EU. Domestic routes are subject to the same core regulations on breaks, daily and weekly rests, and maximum driving times. Your employer will manage schedules to comply with these rules, and your tachograph records will be audited.

11) How are per diems taxed in Romania?

Romanian law allows part of daily allowances for business travel to be non-taxable up to specific limits. Amounts above those limits may be subject to income tax and contributions. Employers usually structure per diems to stay within non-taxable thresholds where possible. Ask payroll for a breakdown of your payslip so you understand net pay and tax treatment.

12) Which city should I choose for the best opportunities?

Bucharest: Largest variety of roles, international depots, and strong public transport jobs.
Cluj-Napoca: Growing logistics and tech services with regional distribution.
Timisoara: Excellent cross-border freight access to Western Europe.
Iasi: Competitive cost of living and growing regional opportunities. Choose based on your preferred routes and lifestyle. If you want frequent international trips, Bucharest and Timisoara are top picks.

13) What safety equipment is mandatory in Romania for commercial vehicles?

Carry warning triangles, reflective vests, a first aid kit, and a fire extinguisher. Ensure your vehicle also meets ADR equipment lists when transporting dangerous goods. Inspect equipment before each trip and replace expired or damaged items.

14) How long does the visa and work permit process take?

Timelines vary, but a practical estimate is 6 to 12 weeks from employer application to visa issuance, plus time to obtain your residence permit after arrival. Start early, keep documents ready, and respond quickly to any requests from authorities. Employers familiar with international recruitment can streamline the process.