Work Visa Requirements for Drivers: Country by Country

Introduction

Relocating for work is a big decision, and for professional drivers in Global considering a move to Romania, it can be the start of a stable and rewarding European career. Romania has become a strategic logistics hub on the eastern flank of the European Union, offering competitive pay for international routes, lower living costs than many Western EU countries, and access to the broader EU market. If you are a truck, bus, or delivery driver evaluating your next step, understanding the legal, visa, and compliance landscape is the key to moving confidently and avoiding costly mistakes.

This in-depth guide explains, in practical terms, how work visas and permits for drivers operate in Romania and how they compare with other popular destinations. You will learn which documents you need, how long the process takes, what to expect from the job market, how your licenses and certifications transfer, and how to integrate smoothly once you arrive. By the end, you will have a clear roadmap from job offer to residency card, plus the on-the-ground details drivers care about: salaries, tolls, winter driving, EU working time rules, and life in cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi.

Note: This guide focuses on non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens ("Global" applicants). EU/EEA/Swiss citizens do not need a visa or work permit to work in Romania.

Why Romania?

Romania has emerged as a strong choice for international drivers due to a combination of market demand, strategic geography, and quality-of-life benefits.

• EU membership and market access: Romania joined the European Union in 2007. Working legally in Romania puts you inside the EU market, with access to cross-border routes across Central and Western Europe. Romanian carriers run frequent lanes to Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, and the Baltics.
• Cost of living advantage: Compared with Western Europe, Romania's cost of living is significantly lower. Rent, utilities, groceries, and dining out cost less in cities like Iasi and Timisoara than in many EU capitals. This means more of your earnings stay in your pocket.
• Strong demand for drivers: The logistics sector in Romania continues to expand, with persistent demand for C, CE, and D category drivers, especially on international routes. Delivery services and urban bus operators also recruit year-round in larger metro areas.
• Work-life balance improvements: Many Romanian transport companies offer structured rotations for international drivers, predictable rest periods, and per diems that increase take-home pay. You can combine European earnings with a more relaxed daily life at home.
• Quality of life: Romania offers vibrant urban culture, nature (the Carpathians and Danube Delta), family-friendly cities, and growing international communities in Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca. English is increasingly used in business and logistics environments.

Job Market Overview

Romania's transportation and logistics industry spans long-haul trucking, regional distribution, urban delivery, and passenger transport. Here is where opportunities are strongest:

International and long-haul trucking (C/CE)

• Demand: Consistently high, especially for CE drivers capable of pulling semi-trailers across EU routes.
• Employers: Romanian trucking firms with EU networks, freight forwarders with in-house fleets, and international logistics companies operating in Romania.
• Typical routes: Romania to Germany, Italy, France, Poland, Hungary, Czechia, Austria, the Netherlands, and the Balkans.
• Work pattern: 4-6 weeks on the road with weekly rests, then planned home time; or 3 weeks on/1 week off rotations depending on employer.

Regional distribution and domestic freight (C/CE)

• Focus: Moving goods between Romanian cities and industrial hubs, often day runs or 1-2 night trips.
• Employers: 3PL providers, retail distribution centers, and manufacturers' logistics units.
• Benefits: More predictable schedules and home most nights.

Urban delivery and last-mile (B/C)

• Growth driver: E-commerce expansion and urban logistics.
• Employers: Courier companies and parcel networks.
• Vehicle types: Vans and small trucks for city routes.
• Benefits: Stable daily hours; entry pathway if you are building up to heavier categories.

Passenger transport (D)

• Roles: City bus drivers, intercity coach drivers, airport shuttles.
• Employers: Public operators like STB (Bucharest), CTP (Cluj-Napoca and Iasi), STPT (Timisoara), and private coach companies.
• Benefits: Fixed shifts, unionized environments in some cities, structured overtime.

Representative employers in Romania

• Logistics and freight: DB Schenker Romania, Kuehne+Nagel Romania, FM Logistic, Yusen Logistics, Aquila, Gebruder Weiss Romania, DHL Freight.
• Courier and parcel: FAN Courier, Cargus, Sameday, DPD Romania, UPS, DHL Express.
• Bus operators: STB (Bucharest), CTP Cluj-Napoca, CTP Iasi, STPT Timisoara, RATBV (Brasov), plus private intercity networks and FlixBus partners.

Work Visa Requirements for Drivers: Country-by-Country Snapshot

While this guide focuses on Romania, many drivers compare options. Here is a quick overview to contextualize Romania's process. Requirements change, so always verify with the official immigration site or a Romanian consulate before applying.

• Romania (spotlight): Employer must first obtain a work permit (aviz de munca) for you. With that authorization, you apply for a long-stay employment visa (D/AM) at a Romanian consulate. After entry, you convert to a residence permit (single permit) through the General Inspectorate for Immigration. Drivers are a recognized occupation, and companies regularly sponsor permits.
• Poland: Typically requires a work permit (Type A) issued to the employer and a national visa. Poland hires many non-EU drivers, and processing can be relatively straightforward when the employer is experienced. Demand is high but rules can change with labor market policies.
• Germany: Work authorization generally hinges on recognized vocational qualifications or the skilled worker route. Pure driving roles can be harder to sponsor unless your qualifications are recognized and the employer proves need. Larger carriers sometimes manage it, but competition and regulatory checks are strict.
• Netherlands: Work permits tend to favor highly skilled migrants. Standard driver roles for non-EU candidates are less commonly sponsored. EU/EEA drivers face fewer barriers. Non-EU candidates usually find it more feasible to start in Romania or Poland.
• Spain: Employment authorization tied to a job offer; some regions may include drivers on shortage lists. Processes can be longer and often require consular visas before entry.
• Italy: Uses annual quotas (Decreto Flussi) that can include drivers. Timing is critical, and slots fill up quickly. Bureaucracy can be heavier compared to Romania.
• Hungary: Active recruitment of non-EU drivers via standard work permits tied to employers. Often similar in structure and timing to Romania's framework, with local variations.
• Czechia: Employee Card system for non-EU workers, including drivers. Documentation and processing are structured but can be time-consuming.
• Bulgaria: Process comparable to Romania's: employer obtains work permit, then you apply for a long-stay visa and residence permit.

Why many drivers start in Romania: Romania's employers are used to sponsoring drivers from Global, the long-stay D visa is well understood, and once you build EU experience, you can expand your route options across the Schengen zone. Add the cost-of-living advantage, and Romania becomes a practical entry point.

Legal Requirements in Romania: Visas, Work Permits, and Residency

For non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, the path to legal employment as a driver in Romania has three main steps: employer work authorization, long-stay employment visa, and residence permit issuance inside Romania.

1) Employer work authorization (aviz de munca)

• Who applies: Your Romanian employer applies to the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) for a work permit on your behalf.
• Category: Most drivers fall under the "permanent workers" category. Posted workers or seasonal categories are possible, depending on the contract.
• Labor market test: Employers may need to prove they tried to hire locally unless an exemption applies. Logistics firms familiar with these procedures will guide you.
• Typical documents required from you (the candidate):
  • Valid passport
  • Proof of qualifications: driving license (C, CE, D), CPC, ADR (if applicable)
  • Evidence of experience (employment letters, references)
  • Criminal record certificate from your home country
  • Medical certificate stating you are fit to work
  • CV and passport-size photos
• Typical employer documents: company registration documents, tax certificates, job description, draft labor contract, proof of accommodation if provided.
• Processing time: Around 30 days, sometimes longer if IGI requests additional documents.
• Fees: Issuance fees are payable by the employer in most cases.

Approval result: Once the work permit is approved, the employer or you receive the authorization (aviz de munca). You will use this to apply for a long-stay visa at a Romanian consulate.

2) Long-stay employment visa (D/AM)

• Where to apply: The Romanian embassy or consulate in your country of residence.
• Validity: Typically 90 days, multiple entry, for employment.
• Documents generally required:
  • Work permit (aviz de munca) approval
  • Employment contract or firm offer
  • Proof of accommodation in Romania (rental contract, hotel booking, or employer-provided housing)
  • Proof of sufficient means (often satisfied by the employment contract)
  • Travel medical insurance valid for the visa period
  • Criminal record certificate (as required by the consulate)
  • Passport valid beyond the stay period, photos, consular forms
  • Visa fee (long-stay visas typically have a fee - verify current amount with the consulate)
• Processing time: Often a few weeks, but allow up to 60 days.

Visa outcome: Upon approval, the D/AM visa is affixed to your passport. You can enter Romania and begin steps for your residence permit.

3) Residence permit (single permit) in Romania

• When to apply: After entering on the D visa, you must apply for a residence permit at IGI before your visa expires. The D visa usually allows a 90-day window.
• Basis: A residence permit for employment is linked to your labor contract.
• Validity: Usually issued for up to 1 year initially and renewable while you remain employed.
• Documents often required:
  • Application form
  • Employment contract registered with Romanian authorities
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Health insurance or proof of enrollment in the national system via your employer
  • Medical certificate
  • Passport with valid D visa, photos
  • Evidence of fee payment
• Biometrics: IGI collects your fingerprints and photo for the residence card.
• Processing time: Commonly up to 30 days.

Family reunification: After certain conditions are met (for example, holding a valid residence permit and demonstrating income and accommodation), your spouse and dependent children can apply for family reunification visas and residence permits. Timelines vary.

Switching employers: If you change jobs, your new employer must typically obtain a new work authorization and you must update your residence permit. Consult IGI before changing companies to avoid gaps in status.

Compliance note: Romanian immigration law is updated periodically. Always confirm the latest requirements with IGI or a Romanian consulate before applying.

Certification and License Recognition

Your ability to legally operate vehicles in Romania depends on recognition of your driving license, your CPC status, and any specialty certifications like ADR. Here is how to navigate the process.

Driver's license recognition and conversion

• EU/EEA/Swiss licenses: Recognized in Romania. If you are moving your residence to Romania, you can continue to use your EU license. Renewal occurs with your home authority or you may exchange it in Romania according to EU rules.
• Non-EU licenses: Rules depend on reciprocity agreements and the vehicle category. In many cases, you will need to exchange your license for a Romanian one through the Romanian Driving License Directorate (DRPCIV). For professional categories (C, CE, D), exchange may be possible if your home license is recognized; otherwise, you may need to undergo testing in Romania.
• International Driving Permit (IDP): An IDP is not a substitute for a recognized license, but it can be helpful during the transition period. Long-term employment requires a license valid in Romania.
• Medical and psychological checks: Professional drivers must pass medical and psychological evaluations as part of licensing and periodic renewal.

Action steps:

1. Verify whether your home country has a license exchange agreement with Romania by contacting DRPCIV or the Romanian consulate.
2. If exchange is possible, prepare certified translations of your license and driving record.
3. If you must test in Romania, plan for theory and practical exams in the required categories (C, CE, D) and register with a licensed driving school.

CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence)

• EU framework: The CPC ensures professional drivers meet EU competency standards. It requires an initial qualification and 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years.
• Romania recognition: If you already hold an EU-recognized CPC, it should be valid across the EU, including Romania. If your CPC is from outside the EU, you may need to undergo qualification or periodic training in Romania to align with EU standards.
• Training providers: Accredited training centers in cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi offer CPC courses, often combined with tachograph and safety modules.

ADR (Transport of Dangerous Goods)

• Value add: ADR certification is highly valued. Drivers with ADR often command higher pay, especially for tanker and chemical logistics.
• Recognition: EU ADR certificates are recognized across the EU. Non-EU ADR certificates may require conversion or retesting through an accredited Romanian training center and exam authority.

Digital tachograph and compliance training

• Tachograph operation: You must understand EU Regulation (EC) No 561/2006 and Regulation (EU) No 165/2014 governing driving times and tachographs, plus updates from the EU Mobility Package.
• Tachograph cards: Obtain a driver tachograph card in Romania if you will be employed by a Romanian company long-term. Your employer will guide you through the application.
• Smart tachographs: Newer vehicles must use smart tachograph versions; know how to handle manual entries, border crossings, and rest period logging.

Salary and Benefits

Compensation varies by route type, company, qualifications, and experience. Figures below are realistic ranges observed in the Romanian market. Exchange rate used for illustration: 1 EUR is approximately 5 RON.

Long-haul international truck drivers (CE)

• Net monthly total (including per diems): 2,000 to 3,000 EUR.
• Structure: A base salary in RON plus daily allowances when driving outside Romania (often 60-80 EUR per day, depending on route and policy).
• Premiums: ADR certification, hazardous routes, winter lanes, and good safety records can increase pay.

Domestic and regional freight (C/CE)

• Net monthly pay: Approximately 4,500 to 7,500 RON (900 to 1,500 EUR), plus overtime or bonuses.
• Benefits: Home most nights, predictable schedules.

Bus and coach drivers (D)

• Net starting pay in larger cities: Approximately 3,800 to 5,500 RON (760 to 1,100 EUR), with overtime and night/weekend premiums raising total take-home.
• Public operators: May offer stable contracts, union benefits, and consistent shift patterns.

Courier and last-mile drivers (B/C)

• Net monthly pay: Approximately 3,500 to 5,500 RON (700 to 1,100 EUR), plus per-parcel incentives and fuel or vehicle allowances when applicable.

Common benefits and extras

• Per diems for international routes
• Overtime pay and weekend premiums
• Accommodation during routes (company-provided or reimbursed)
• Meal allowances or expense cards
• Annual leave and paid public holidays
• Health insurance contributions and social benefits through payroll
• Safety bonuses and clean inspection rewards

Negotiation tip: Present EU-compliant credentials (CPC, ADR, tachograph knowledge) and a clean driving record. If you have experience on specific EU corridors, highlight it.

Cost of Living in Romania

Romania's affordability is a major draw. Your budget will depend on city, lifestyle, and whether your employer covers housing during probation.

Rent (1-bedroom apartments)

• Bucharest:
  • City center: 500 to 800 EUR per month
  • Outside center: 350 to 550 EUR per month
• Cluj-Napoca:
  • Center: 450 to 700 EUR
  • Outside center: 350 to 550 EUR
• Timisoara:
  • Center: 350 to 550 EUR
  • Outside center: 300 to 450 EUR
• Iasi:
  • Center: 300 to 450 EUR
  • Outside center: 250 to 400 EUR

Utilities and connectivity

• Utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage) for a 1-bedroom: 70 to 120 EUR monthly on average; more in winter (100 to 180 EUR).
• Internet: 7 to 12 EUR per month for high-speed broadband.
• Mobile plan: 5 to 10 EUR per month with generous data packages.

Transport and daily expenses

• Public transport passes: Approximately 70 to 100 RON per month in big cities for local networks. Integrated metro and surface transport passes in Bucharest are affordable.
• Groceries: 150 to 250 EUR per person per month for a balanced diet.
• Eating out: A simple lunch is 6 to 10 EUR; dinner at a mid-range restaurant is 12 to 20 EUR per person.
• Fuel: Diesel commonly ranges around 7.0 to 7.5 RON per liter. Prices fluctuate.

Example monthly budgets

• Single driver in Bucharest sharing a flat: 350 EUR rent share + 90 EUR utilities + 200 EUR groceries + 50 EUR phone/internet + 80 RON transport pass + occasional dining 100 EUR = roughly 800 to 950 EUR.
• Single driver in Iasi in a studio: 300 EUR rent + 80 EUR utilities + 180 EUR groceries + 50 EUR phone/internet + 70 RON transport + dining 80 EUR = about 650 to 800 EUR.

Note: International drivers on rotation often spend fewer days per month at home, reducing daily living costs. International per diems can significantly add to net income.

Romanian Road Rules and EU Compliance for Professional Drivers

Understanding the rules keeps you safe, legal, and employed. Romania applies EU driving time regulations and has local road requirements.

EU driving time, breaks, and rest (Reg. 561/2006)

• Daily driving limit: 9 hours (can extend to 10 hours twice per week).
• Weekly driving limit: 56 hours.
• Two-week limit: 90 hours in any two consecutive weeks.
• Breaks: 45-minute break after 4.5 hours of driving (can split into 15 + 30 minutes).
• Daily rest: At least 11 hours (may be reduced under conditions or split into 3 + 9 hours for certain operations).
• Weekly rest: Regular weekly rest of 45 hours; reduced weekly rest allowed under conditions with compensation. Regular weekly rest should not be taken in the vehicle.

Tachograph rules

• Correct use of digital/smart tachograph is essential. Make manual entries for ferry/train travel, border crossings, and special situations.
• Keep tachograph printouts and data available for inspections.
• Non-compliance can lead to fines, impoundment, and job loss.

Romanian road specifics

• Right-hand traffic: Romania drives on the right.
• Headlights: Use dipped headlights during the day outside urban areas; many companies require daytime running lights at all times for safety.
• Winter equipment: Winter tires are mandatory when roads are covered with snow, ice, or frost. Chains may be required on mountain roads; companies often equip trucks with chains and sand.
• Alcohol: Zero tolerance for drivers. Strict penalties apply.
• Safety equipment: Reflective vests, warning triangles, and first aid kits should be in your vehicle.

Tolls and vignettes

• Rovinieta: Most vehicles using national roads require a vignette (rovinieta). Costs vary by vehicle category and validity period. Heavy vehicles and buses have specific categories and rates.
• Toll points: Certain bridges and motorway sections carry separate tolls (for example, Fetesti-Cernavoda on A2). Keep company toll devices/cards updated.
• Company policy: Your employer will typically manage toll accounts, onboard devices, and reimbursements.

Practical Steps to Relocate: A Step-by-Step Guide

This roadmap takes you from application to arrival.

1. Research employers and roles

• Target companies that regularly sponsor non-EU drivers.
• Decide your preference: international routes vs domestic, freight vs passenger.
• Polish your CV with clear license categories (C, CE, D), CPC/ADR status, languages, and route experience.

1. Pre-screen and interviews

• Expect phone or video interviews. Be ready to discuss EU compliance knowledge and your driving history.
• Gather references from past employers. Highlight zero-accident records and clean inspections.

1. Secure a conditional job offer

• Ensure the contract spells out base salary, per diem, rotation schedule, equipment type, and whether the employer assists with housing during training.

1. Employer applies for your work permit (aviz de munca)

• Cooperate with document requests promptly (passport, police clearance, medical fitness, proof of qualifications).
• Timeline: Plan for around 30 days. Delays are possible if documents need translations or apostilles.

1. Apply for the long-stay visa (D/AM) at a Romanian consulate

• Submit the work permit, employment contract, travel medical insurance, accommodation proof, and consular forms.
• Attend any required interview or biometrics appointment.
• Allow up to 60 days for visa issuance.

1. Enter Romania and start onboarding

• Complete company induction: safety briefings, tachograph procedures, route familiarization, and internal policies.
• Begin the residence permit application with IGI.

1. Apply for the residence permit (single permit)

• Submit employment contract, accommodation proof, medical certificate if required, and pay the fee.
• Attend biometrics. Keep your receipt; it proves your lawful stay while the card is processed.

1. Complete license, CPC, ADR alignment

• If your license needs conversion, book the earliest available appointments at DRPCIV.
• Schedule CPC periodic training if needed and apply for a Romanian tachograph card.
• Consider ADR training if your job role requires it.

1. Settle housing and banking

• Arrange medium-term accommodation. Many drivers start in a shared apartment in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, or Iasi.
• Open a Romanian bank account to receive your salary. Bring your residence card or proof of application, passport, and employment contract.

1. Start driving with full compliance

• Keep your documents accessible: passport, residence permit, driver card, license, CPC, ADR (if applicable), vehicle documents, and company instructions.

Cultural Integration and Daily Life

Moving countries is more than paperwork. Here is how to settle in comfortably.

Language basics

• Romanian language: A Romance language with many shared roots with Italian, Spanish, and French. Basic phrases will help at gas stations, rest areas, and shops.
• English at work: Many dispatchers and managers in logistics speak English, especially in larger companies. Learning key Romanian terms for documents and road signs is still essential.
• Suggested learning: Use language apps and take a beginner course. Practice words for directions, documents, numbers, and courtesy.

Workplace culture

• Professionalism: Punctuality, honesty about delays, and proactive communication with dispatch are valued.
• Documentation culture: Companies emphasize digital paperwork, tachograph accuracy, and traceability. Keep your logs clean and up to date.
• Safety mindset: Zero alcohol tolerance and seatbelt use are non-negotiable. Report vehicle defects immediately.

Everyday essentials

• Banking: Major banks have English-speaking staff in larger branches. Online banking is common.
• Healthcare: Access public healthcare via contributions deducted from your salary. Private clinics are available and affordable compared with Western Europe.
• Shopping and food: Major chains and fresh markets are everywhere. Drivers often plan bulk grocery runs between rotations.

Community and support

• Expat groups: Look for driver communities and online groups based in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi. They are good for housing, car purchase tips, and shared rides.
• Faith and culture: Romania is diverse and welcoming. You will find places of worship and cultural communities in larger cities.

Common Challenges and How to Handle Them

• Driving on the right side: Practice in low-traffic areas if you come from left-hand traffic countries. Take it slow at roundabouts and ensure mirror settings match the new perspective.
• Winter driving: Expect snow and ice in the Carpathians and northern regions. Carry chains, reduce speed early, and check weather at mountain passes. Employers often schedule rest around severe storms.
• Toll systems: Learn the rovinieta categories and company policies on devices and reimbursements. Keep receipts.
• EU working time directives: Use your tachograph correctly, never let pressure compromise rest periods, and keep dispatch informed. Refusing unsafe schedules is acceptable when framed as legal compliance.
• Distance from home: For Global drivers, rotations can be long. Choose companies that rotate predictably and support travel planning for home leave.
• Cultural differences: Communicate openly. Romanians appreciate direct but polite conversation. Ask when in doubt.

Success Tips from Other Expat Drivers

• Choose a sponsor with experience: Established Romanian companies that routinely hire non-EU drivers will guide you through permits faster and smoother.
• Keep document copies: Carry both physical and digital copies of your permit, visa, license, CPC, and insurance policies.
• Learn the EU rules: Know Regulation 561/2006 by heart. It protects you and keeps your company happy.
• Start with an international route if you want higher net pay: Per diems make a big difference.
• Upgrade certifications: ADR and specialized equipment training open better-paying lanes.
• Build a buffer fund: Have savings to cover the first 2-3 months in case of delays or slower starts.
• Network: Other drivers will share route hacks, safe rest areas, and tips for inspections at borders.

Salary Comparison With Home Country and the EU Context

For many Global drivers, Romanian international routes yield net monthly pay in the 2,000 to 3,000 EUR range when per diems are included. This compares favorably with domestic wages in many non-EU countries and can rival pay in some Western EU markets after cost-of-living adjustments. Domestic roles are lower-paid but offer stability and home time. As you gain EU experience, your bargaining power increases for better trucks, routes, and schedules.

Conclusion: Your Road to Romania Starts Here

Romania offers a practical, achievable pathway into the EU logistics market. With strong demand for C, CE, and D category drivers, reasonable visa procedures, and lower living costs, you can build a stable, compliant, and rewarding career. If you are serious about relocating:

• Start contacting Romanian carriers that sponsor non-EU drivers.
• Prepare your documents: license, CPC, ADR, police clearance, medical certificate, and translations.
• Plan for the employer work permit, D/AM visa, and residence permit timeline.
• Refresh your EU compliance knowledge, especially tachograph and rest rules.
• Choose your city base: Bucharest for scale and flights, Cluj-Napoca for tech and quality of life, Timisoara for industry and proximity to Western routes, or Iasi for affordability and a growing scene.

Take the first step today by shortlisting employers and confirming which ones will sponsor your work authorization. The road to a European driving career can start in Romania.

FAQ

1) Do I need a job offer before I apply for a Romanian work visa?

Yes. For non-EU drivers, the process begins with an employer in Romania obtaining your work authorization (aviz de munca). Without a job offer, you cannot get the long-stay employment visa (D/AM).

2) How long does the visa and permit process take?

Expect around 30 days for the employer work permit plus up to 60 days for the consulate to issue your D/AM visa. After arrival, the residence permit can take up to 30 days. Build in extra time for translations and apostilles if required.

3) Can my family join me in Romania?

Yes. Once you hold a valid residence permit and meet income and accommodation conditions, your spouse and dependent children can apply for family reunification visas and residence permits. Requirements vary; check with IGI and the Romanian consulate.

4) Will Romania recognize my driving license and CPC?

EU licenses and CPC are recognized. For non-EU licenses, it depends on reciprocity and category. You may be able to exchange your license, or you might need to test in Romania for professional categories. If your CPC is not EU-recognized, plan to complete training in Romania.

5) How much can I earn as a CE driver on international routes?

A realistic net monthly total, including per diems, is around 2,000 to 3,000 EUR. ADR, clean safety records, and premium lanes can raise the total. Domestic freight typically pays less but offers more home time.

6) What are the main toll and vignette rules in Romania for trucks and buses?

Most vehicles on national roads require a rovinieta (vignette). Heavy vehicles have specific categories and rates. Some bridges and motorway sections, such as Fetesti-Cernavoda on A2, carry additional tolls. Your employer normally handles accounts and devices; keep receipts and follow company procedures.

7) Is English enough to work as a driver in Romania?

English is widely used in logistics, especially at larger carriers, and many dispatchers speak it. However, learning basic Romanian will help with police checks, roadside interactions, and daily life.

8) Can I change employers after I arrive?

You can, but the new employer must secure a work authorization for you, and you must update your residence permit. Coordinate with IGI to avoid status gaps.

9) Do I need ADR certification to get hired?

Not always, but ADR significantly improves your prospects and pay on tanker or hazardous goods routes. If you do not have ADR yet, consider obtaining it in Romania through an accredited provider.

10) What are the key EU compliance rules I must follow as a driver?

Know Regulation 561/2006 on driving times, breaks, and rest; Regulation 165/2014 on tachographs; and Mobility Package updates. Use your tachograph correctly, keep rest periods intact, and carry all required documents.

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Additional Country Notes for Comparison

If you are still comparing destinations, remember:

• Romania and Poland are practical entry routes for non-EU drivers because many employers sponsor permits.
• Western EU countries may have higher nominal pay, but sponsorship can be harder and living costs higher. Starting in Romania lets you build EU experience and compliance records.
• Visa policies change. Always check the latest official guidance from the destination country's immigration authority and consulates.

Your decision should balance pay, visa feasibility, cost of living, and personal preferences. For many Global drivers, Romania strikes the right balance.