Finding Accommodation as an International Driver

Introduction

Relocating from Global to Romania for a driving job is an exciting step that can open the door to stable EU employment, competitive pay relative to living costs, and access to major logistics routes across Central and Eastern Europe. But before you settle into your first international route or your city bus shift, you will need a reliable base: a comfortable, affordable place to live that fits your schedule, your budget, and your work location.

This comprehensive guide focuses on finding accommodation as an international driver while also covering critical parts of your move to Romania: job opportunities, legal and certification requirements, salary expectations, cost of living details, and the cultural context that will help you thrive. Whether you drive long-haul international with CE, deliver around the city with C, or operate passenger transport with D, you will find practical guidance to start smart and settle quickly.

Why Romania?

Romania has become one of Eastern Europe's most dynamic logistics markets. For professional drivers, it offers a compelling mix of EU membership benefits and an affordable cost of living.

EU membership and market access: Romania is part of the European Union and the single market, which means infrastructure investments, standardized driver qualifications (CPC), and access to broader European routes.
Lower cost of living: Compared to Western EU countries, Romania's housing, utilities, and daily expenses are significantly lower. This allows a driver to save more while earning in euros for international routes or competitive RON salaries for domestic work.
Strong demand for drivers: Logistics, e-commerce, and manufacturing expansion continues to drive demand for C, CE, and D category drivers across Romania's major cities and industrial corridors.
Quality of life: Cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi combine modern services with lower living costs. You get access to European healthcare standards, growing expat communities, and vibrant cultural life.

From a housing standpoint, Romania offers a wide range of rental options: from budget studios near industrial parks to larger apartments in calm neighborhoods with easy access to ring roads and motorways. If your employer is based in or near a logistics hub, you can minimize commute times and reduce stress from city traffic.

Job Market Overview

Romania's transportation and logistics sector is diverse. Knowing where and how you might work will shape your accommodation choices.

Types of driver roles

Long-haul international (CE): Cross-border trucking within the EU and beyond, using digital tachographs and complying with EU working time rules. Often rotation-based schedules (for example, 4 weeks on and 2 weeks off).
Domestic trucking (C/CE): Delivering to warehouses, retail outlets, construction sites, and factories within Romania. Typically home most nights.
Last-mile delivery (B/C): Urban and peri-urban deliveries for e-commerce companies and couriers.
Bus and coach driving (D): City transit operations or intercity/international coach routes.

Romanian logistics hubs and what they mean for housing

Bucharest: The country's largest logistics hub, with industrial zones in areas like Militari, Chitila, Afumati, Berceni, and Popești-Leordeni. Housing near the ring road (Centura Bucuresti) can save commute time. Expect higher rents vs other cities but more job choices.
Cluj-Napoca: A tech and logistics center for northwestern Romania. Industrial zones near Apahida and Jucu (near the A3 corridor). Housing costs are relatively high for Transylvania but still below many Western EU cities.
Timisoara: Strong manufacturing and logistics links to Hungary and Serbia. Industrial areas around Ghiroda, Dumbravita, Sag, and on the ring road. Attractive rents and good quality of life.
Iasi: A growing hub in northeastern Romania. Industrial development in Miroslava and Pacurari corridors. Compared to Bucharest and Cluj, housing is generally more affordable.

Typical employers and sectors

Logistics and freight forwarding: DB Schenker, DSV, Kuehne+Nagel, FM Logistic, Maersk Logistics, and regional players serving automotive, FMCG, and e-commerce.
Trucking carriers: International Alexander, Aquila, Ravitex, and many small to mid-size Romanian fleets that partner with Western EU brokers.
Courier and last-mile: FAN Courier, Sameday, Urgent Cargus, and international platforms.
Passenger transport: Municipal operators such as STB (Bucharest), STPT (Timisoara), CTP Cluj-Napoca, CTP Iasi; intercity operators and international coach partners.

When choosing accommodation, align with where you will park, start routes, and take rest. Long-haul drivers often benefit from renting near a depot or industrial area to reduce daytime city driving. City bus drivers may prefer neighborhoods close to depots or major lines with early morning access.

Legal Requirements

Your legal path to work in Romania depends on your nationality and your employer's readiness to sponsor you.

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens

No visa is required. You can work in Romania but must register your residence.
After arrival, apply for a Registration Certificate with the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI). Bring your employment contract, proof of accommodation, and health insurance.

Non-EU citizens (Global)

Most non-EU drivers follow this sequence:

Employer obtains work permit: Your Romanian employer initiates a work permit application with IGI (General Inspectorate for Immigration). This includes demonstrating the job offer, your qualifications, a clean criminal record, and proof of recruitment efforts if applicable.
Long-stay work visa (D/AM): With the approved work permit, you apply at a Romanian consulate for a long-stay work visa. You will need your work permit, proof of accommodation, valid passport, medical insurance for the visa period, and a police clearance.
Entry and residence permit: After entering Romania, apply for a residence permit through IGI within the required timeframe (generally within 30 days of arrival or before your visa expires). Provide your employment contract, rental agreement or accommodation proof, medical insurance, and your passport with the visa.
Dependents: Spouses and children can apply for family reunification after you obtain your residence permit, or they may apply to accompany you if eligible. Documents must be translated into Romanian by a certified translator when required.

Timing tip: Start paperwork early. Work permits can take several weeks. Visa processing times vary by consulate and season. Having a temporary rental agreement or hotel booking will help for your visa and initial IGI filings.

Certification & License Recognition

Romania follows EU frameworks for professional driver qualifications, but your current license and certificates may need validation or conversion.

Driver's license recognition

EU licenses: If your license was issued by an EU/EEA country, it is generally recognized across Romania. Ensure your license is valid and covers the necessary categories (C, CE, D). Carry translations if your employer requests them.
Non-EU licenses: You may need to exchange your license for a Romanian one if you plan to reside and work long-term. Romania has bilateral agreements with some countries; where no agreement exists, you may need to pass theory and practical exams. Check with the Romanian Driver License Authority (DRPCIV) for current rules and the process. Expect to provide a medical and psychological check, photos, proof of residence, and certified translations.

CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence)

Initial qualification and periodic training: EU rules require professional drivers to have CPC and complete periodic training (usually 35 hours every 5 years).
Recognition: EU CPC is generally recognized. If you are non-EU, you may need to obtain CPC in Romania or convert an equivalent qualification, depending on bilateral recognition. The Romanian authority responsible for road transport training and authorizations is Autoritatea Rutiera Romana (ARR). Training providers are accredited by ARR.
Driver Qualification Card: Ensure you hold a Driver Qualification Card (DQC) or equivalent proof that your CPC is current.

ADR (Hazardous Goods)

ADR certification opens higher-paying opportunities for tankers and hazardous materials.
If you hold ADR from another country, verify whether Romania recognizes it directly or requires refresher training/validation. Many ADR recognitions work EU-wide, but employers may request confirmation or localized training.

Digital tachograph card

Romania uses digital tachographs in line with EU regulations (Regulation (EU) No 165/2014 and smart tachograph developments). You will need a personal driver tachograph card to operate vehicles equipped with a digital tachograph.
If you hold a valid tachograph card from another EU country, it is typically accepted, but if you are relocating long-term, replacing it with a Romanian card may be advisable. Application processes run through Romanian authorities; many employers help you apply via ARR-accredited channels.

EU driving regulations to remember

Daily driving time: 9 hours, extendable to 10 hours up to twice per week.
Weekly driving time: Not to exceed 56 hours; two-week limit is 90 hours.
Breaks and rest periods: Minimum 45-minute break after 4 hours 30 minutes of driving (can be split). Daily rest generally 11 hours (reducible to 9 under conditions). Weekly rest rules apply with regular and reduced rests and compensation requirements.
Working Time Directive: Average weekly working time should not exceed 48 hours, with specific rules for night work and reference periods.
Romanian road transport laws: Align with EU rules. Enforcement performed by ISCTR and the police. Keep documents (license, CPC, ADR, tachograph card, vehicle docs) available during checks.

Salary & Benefits

Salary structures vary widely depending on the role and route type. The figures below are typical ranges as of 2024, and your offer may differ by employer, route, experience, and endorsements.

Long-haul international (CE): Many Romanian carriers pay a base salary in RON plus daily allowances when abroad. Typical totals range from EUR 1,800 to EUR 2,800 per month, sometimes higher with ADR, seniority, or premium routes. A common structure is a base salary of 3,000-4,500 RON net plus 60-75 EUR per day when on international routes.
Domestic trucking (C/CE): Net monthly pay often ranges from 4,500 to 7,500 RON, with additional bonuses for performance and overtime. Some roles include meal vouchers and safety bonuses.
City bus drivers (D): Municipal operators may offer net monthly pay between 3,500 and 6,500 RON, plus overtime, night or weekend differentials, and stable schedules. Benefits often include subsidized transport and meal vouchers.
Last-mile delivery (B/C): Pay varies widely, often between 3,500 and 6,000 RON net, depending on company, volume-based pay, and whether you use a company vehicle.

Standard benefits you may encounter:

Meal vouchers (tichete de masa): Often 30-40 RON per workday.
Private medical insurance: Some employers offer basic packages.
Accommodation support: A few employers provide temporary housing or help you find rentals near depots.
Training and upskilling: CPC periodic training, ADR, and other courses may be funded or subsidized.
Rotation travel: For international drivers on rotation, companies may pay or reimburse transport to and from your home base.

Remember to ask about pay structure transparency, overtime policies, per diem rules, and whether the company pays on time and in full. Seek written terms in your employment contract.

Cost of Living

Romania's living costs are moderate by EU standards. Housing drives most of your budget, followed by food, transport, and utilities.

Typical housing costs (monthly rent)

Bucharest:
- Studio (garsoniera): 350-550 EUR
- 1-bedroom: 450-700 EUR
- 2-bedroom: 600-900+ EUR (varies by neighborhood and building age)
Cluj-Napoca:
- Studio: 330-500 EUR
- 1-bedroom: 400-650 EUR
- 2-bedroom: 550-850 EUR
Timisoara:
- Studio: 280-420 EUR
- 1-bedroom: 350-550 EUR
- 2-bedroom: 500-750 EUR
Iasi:
- Studio: 250-400 EUR
- 1-bedroom: 300-500 EUR
- 2-bedroom: 450-700 EUR

These are typical ranges; newer buildings with underground parking, modern heating, and elevators command higher prices. Proximity to industrial zones often lowers rent compared to central districts, which can be ideal for drivers.

Utilities and other monthly costs

Utilities (electricity, heating, water, trash): 70-150 EUR depending on season, apartment size, and heating type (centralized vs individual gas boiler).
Internet: 7-12 EUR for fast fiber connections. Romania is known for excellent internet speeds.
Mobile phone plan: 5-12 EUR with generous data options.
Groceries: 150-250 EUR for a modest single-person basket; more if you cook daily or prefer imported brands.
Public transport: 15-25 EUR for monthly city passes depending on the city.
Fuel: Diesel prices fluctuate; as a reference, around 7 RON per liter is a common recent benchmark. Your employer usually covers fuel for work vehicles, but consider your private car.

Sample monthly budget for a single driver

Bucharest: 800-1,300 EUR total (mid-range rent + utilities + food + transport + phone/internet)
Cluj-Napoca: 700-1,100 EUR
Timisoara: 600-1,000 EUR
Iasi: 550-950 EUR

Housing: How to Find the Right Place as a Driver

Accommodation is the backbone of a smooth relocation. Focus on three priorities: location, cost, and suitability for your work schedule.

Where to search

Major listing platforms: Imobiliare.ro, Storia.ro, OLX.ro, Publi24.ro.
Facebook groups: City-specific rental groups and expat communities. Search for "Rent in Bucharest" or "Apartments Cluj" etc.
Agencies: Rental agents can speed up your search but may charge a fee (commonly up to 50% of one month's rent).
Employer networks: Ask your company or colleagues for landlord recommendations, especially near depots or industrial parks.

Types of rentals

Garsoniera (studio): Compact and affordable; suitable if you rotate frequently and do not need a large space.
1-bedroom (2 rooms): Standard option for single drivers who want separate living and sleeping areas.
2-bedroom: Good if you have family or want a roommate.
Furnished vs unfurnished: Many rentals come furnished. Unfurnished often means no appliances; check for kitchen and washing machine.

What to check before signing

Lease contract: Ask for a bilingual contract or an English summary. Ensure your name, address, rent amount, deposit, lease duration, termination notice, and included furnishings are listed.
ANAF registration: Prefer a lease that the landlord has registered with ANAF (tax authority). It is a sign of legitimacy and some employers require it for residence procedures.
Heating type: Individual gas boilers (centrala pe gaz) generally offer better cost control. Centralized systems can be cheaper in some buildings but may vary.
Utilities: Clarify who pays which utilities and how (maintenance fees, water, heating, electricity, internet). Ask for average past bills.
Building condition: Check for mold, insulation (windows), elevator, noise, and neighbors. In older blocks, verify plumbing and water pressure.
Parking: Essential for drivers with a personal car. Ask about assigned spots or street rules. For trucks, you will need depot or truck park arrangements; do not assume you can park heavy vehicles near residential buildings.

Neighborhood tips by city

Bucharest: For logistics access, look at Militari (A1 access), Chitila, Berceni, Popești-Leordeni, Theodor Pallady (A2 access), Afumati, and areas near the ring road. Central areas are pricier and have tighter parking.
Cluj-Napoca: Apahida or areas with easy road access to Jucu industrial park, Muncii Boulevard, and the A3 corridor. City center is lively but more expensive.
Timisoara: Ghiroda, Dumbravita, Sag, and neighborhoods near the ring road. These offer quick exits to DN roads and the A1 motorway.
Iasi: Pacurari, Miroslava, Dacia, or areas with quick access to ring road and industrial zones.

Avoiding scams and headaches

Never pay a deposit before viewing and signing a contract.
Verify the landlord's ID and property ownership if possible.
Beware of listings with very low prices for high-end apartments.
Use agency services that provide transparent fees and contracts.
Keep a written inventory of furniture and appliances at move-in.

Short-term options while you settle paperwork

Aparthotels or serviced apartments: Offer flexibility and weekly rates.
Budget hotels or hostels: Useful if you arrive before securing a long-term rental.
Employer-provided housing: Some companies arrange temporary accommodation near depots or training centers.

Residence documentation and accommodation proof

Immigration steps often require proof of accommodation. A registered lease, hotel booking confirmation, or landlord declaration may be needed. Keep printed copies and digital scans. If you change address, inform IGI as required.

Cultural Integration

Romania is welcoming, and locals appreciate polite, simple attempts to communicate in Romanian, even if your job is mostly on the road.

Language basics for daily life

Greetings: "Buna" (hi), "Buna ziua" (good day), "Buna seara" (good evening)
Politeness: "Va rog" (please), "Multumesc" (thank you), "Cu placere" (you are welcome)
Practical: "Cat costa?" (how much?), "Unde este..." (where is...), "Nu vorbesc bine romana" (I do not speak Romanian well)

Many landlords and employers in large cities speak some English, but do not assume it. Use translation apps for complex negotiations and ensure you understand any contract before signing.

Workplace culture and expectations

Professional but friendly: Punctuality and respect for procedures matter.
Documentation culture: Paperwork is taken seriously; keep copies of licenses, CPC, ADR, medical certificates, and employment documents.
Safety and compliance: Companies place increasing emphasis on safety, EU compliance, and proper rest. They appreciate drivers who maintain good records and respect tachograph rules.

Driving culture and road conditions

Right-hand traffic: Romania drives on the right side of the road.
Speed and enforcement: Speed limits for heavy vehicles are lower than for cars; expect checks by ISCTR and police.
Winter driving: Snow and ice affect mountain corridors (e.g., DN1, DN7). Winter tires are mandatory when roads are covered with snow or ice; chains may be required in heavy conditions.
Tolls and vignettes: Romania uses a road vignette (rovinieta) for national roads. Some bridges and motorways have separate tolls (for example, on the A2 bridge section). Truck-specific tolls and categories apply; follow employer guidelines and keep receipts.

Practical Steps to Relocate

Use this step-by-step plan to reduce stress and move efficiently.

Research your role and employer
- Confirm route types, pay structure, benefits, accommodation support, and depot locations.
- Ask about assistance with CPC, ADR, and tachograph card applications.
Prepare documents
- Passport valid for at least 6-12 months.
- Driver's license (C, CE, D as applicable) and certified translations if required.
- CPC, ADR certificates, and training records.
- Medical certificates and vaccination records if requested.
- Criminal record certificate for work permit/visa.
- Academic or training certificates that may support visa applications.
Employer work permit and visa (for non-EU)
- Employer submits work permit application to IGI.
- After approval, apply for the D/AM long-stay work visa at the Romanian consulate.
- Provide proof of accommodation (hotel booking or rental), travel health insurance, and supporting documents.
Book initial accommodation
- Reserve a short-term stay for at least 2-4 weeks in the city where your employer is based.
- Use this time to search for a long-term rental and finalize paperwork.
Arrive and register
- Enter Romania with your visa or ID (EU citizens).
- Attend employer onboarding and any training sessions (CPC refresher, ADR if needed).
- Apply for residence permit with IGI (non-EU), bringing your lease or accommodation proof.
Convert or validate credentials
- If required, apply to exchange your driver's license at DRPCIV.
- Apply for a Romanian digital tachograph card if you need to replace your foreign card long-term.
- Enroll in periodic CPC training if due. Consider ADR for higher-paying jobs.
Set up local life
- Open a bank account (passport and residence documents). Common banks have English-speaking staff in major cities.
- Get a local SIM card and internet.
- Learn key routes, truck parks, and service stations near your depot.
Move into long-term accommodation
- Inspect the apartment carefully; take photos at move-in.
- Sign the lease and request ANAF registration.
- Transfer or set up utilities and internet.
Understand payroll and taxes
- Ensure your employment contract is registered.
- Ask HR about pay dates, benefits (meal vouchers), and any paperwork needed for dependents.
Settle into a routine

Plan rest days and weekly shopping around your work schedule.
Use navigation apps that support truck routing and Romanian road restrictions.

Success Tips from Other Expats

Choose location over luxury: Saving 15 minutes each way to your depot adds up. Living close to ring roads or motorways reduces stress.
Request bilingual leases: If your landlord cannot provide one, have a translator review the contract before signing.
Verify winter readiness: In colder cities, ask about insulation, heating efficiency, and utility costs during winter.
Keep all proofs: Always carry copies of your work permit, residence permit, employment contract, and driver documents. Enforcement checks can be frequent.
Network: Join online groups of drivers in Romania. They provide job leads, housing referrals, and real-time road conditions.
Invest in training: ADR certification and smart tachograph familiarity can unlock better pay.
Understand EU rest rules: Proper tachograph use protects you from fines and keeps you employable.
Talk to your employer about parking: Arrange secure truck parking near depots or recognized truck stops. Do not try to park heavy vehicles in residential streets.

Common Challenges and How to Manage Them

Driving on the right side: Practice calm transitions and rely on mirrors. If coming from left-hand traffic countries, take extra care at roundabouts and lane changes.
Winter conditions: Equip properly. Use winter tires when conditions require and chains where posted. Know mountain pass alternatives.
Toll and vignette systems: Follow company procedures for rovinieta, bridge tolls, and any route-specific fees. Keep digital or paper proof to avoid penalties.
Paperwork and translations: Use certified translators for official documents. Keep both original and copies on hand.
Work-life balance: Rotation schedules can be intense. Plan quality rest and budget carefully to enjoy off days.

Detailed Accommodation Playbook for Drivers

Step 1: Define your housing goals

Commute time to depot or bus garage: Aim for 15-30 minutes by car where possible.
Budget: Set a realistic rent range plus 100-150 EUR for utilities.
Amenities: Prioritize heating efficiency, washing machine, reliable internet, and parking.
Lease duration: Commonly 6-12 months with renewal options.

Step 2: Prioritize neighborhoods by route access

Map your depot and typical starting points. Look at ring road exits and main highways (A1, A2, A3, DN roads). Avoid central congestion if you start early mornings.
For bus drivers, proximity to depots and key lines matters more than highway access.

Step 3: Shortlist 10-15 listings and schedule viewings

Message in plain English. Example: "Hello, I am a professional driver working in Bucharest. I am interested in your 1-bedroom apartment. Is it available from [date]? Does it include heating and parking? Can we arrange a viewing this week? Thank you."
Ask about monthly costs: rent, deposit, utilities, building fees, internet, parking.

Step 4: Inspect like a pro

Check windows and doors for insulation and drafts.
Turn on heating and water to test pressure and temperature.
Confirm appliances work.
Test internet or ask for the provider and speed.
Verify elevator condition and building cleanliness.
Visit at night to gauge noise and parking availability.

Step 5: Negotiate and sign

Normal deposits: 1-2 months' rent.
Request small repairs or an additional appliance as part of the deal.
Ask for a clause allowing reasonable early termination with notice if your work location changes.
Ensure the inventory list is attached to the lease.

Step 6: After move-in

Document meter readings.
Set up utility accounts if required.
Register the lease with ANAF if the landlord does not; or at least request proof of registration. This can help with residence procedures and employer paperwork.
Store your lease, payment receipts, and ID copies in cloud storage.

Step 7: Plan for rest and recovery

Soundproofing matters for drivers who sleep during the day. Look for neighborhoods away from construction or choose higher-floor apartments in quieter blocks.
Consider blackout curtains and white noise machines for day sleep.

Job-Specific Focus for Drivers in Romania

Regulations refresher

EU driving time and rest rules: Regulation (EC) No 561/2006.
Tachographs: Regulation (EU) No 165/2014. Use and keep your tachograph card secure.
Romanian enforcement: ISCTR performs road inspections; police enforce speed, alcohol limits, and safety.
CPC: 35 hours periodic training every 5 years, recognized EU-wide.
ADR: Follow course schedules and renewal requirements if handling hazardous goods.

Opportunities you can target

International routes: Western EU lanes via Hungary and Austria; Balkans via Serbia and Bulgaria; port connections via Constanta.
Logistics hubs: Warehouse and shuttle driving around Bucharest ring road, Cluj industrial parks, Timisoara automotive supply chains, Iasi manufacturing corridors.
Delivery services: Urban distribution with fixed shifts can be compatible with planned housing and family life.
Passenger transport: City bus roles with stable pay and predictable schedules; intercity coach roles with travel and per diem.

Certifications and training actions

Validate your CPC and ADR. If needed, plan to complete training in Romania with ARR-accredited providers.
Apply for a Romanian tachograph card if you plan to stay long-term and your employer requires it.
Keep medical and psychological checks up to date per Romanian regulations.

Common road challenges and mitigation

Right-hand driving adaptation: Practice empty industrial routes when you first arrive.
Winter: Keep chains and check weather on mountain corridors.
Tolls and vignettes: Store electronic proofs; align with employer systems.
Working Time Directive: Track all activities in the tachograph; avoid pressured driving beyond limits.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Romania offers international drivers a valuable combination: EU-standard work with strong demand, realistic salaries, and a lower cost of living that allows you to save. Your accommodation is a strategic asset. Choose it with your routes and rest in mind, and you will gain comfort, efficiency, and peace of mind.

Start with a short-term stay, explore neighborhoods near your depot, secure a transparent lease, and set up utilities quickly. Meanwhile, align your documents: work permit or registration, residence permit, CPC, ADR, tachograph card, and any license conversions. Within a few weeks, you can be fully settled and ready to focus on your career.

If you are planning your move from Global to Romania now, begin by mapping your work location and housing budget. Reach out to employers that support integration, ask about depot-based accommodation help, and prepare your documents early. Your next route could start from a home base that truly works for you.

FAQ

1) Can I rent an apartment in Romania before I arrive?

Yes, but it is safer to book a short-term stay first and view long-term rentals in person. If you must rent remotely, request a live video tour, copies of the landlord's ID, proof of property ownership, and a draft lease. Never transfer a deposit to a private account without proper documentation. Consider using an agency if you cannot view in person.

2) How much deposit do landlords usually ask for?

Most landlords ask for 1-2 months' rent as a security deposit. Some may request the first month's rent plus deposit upfront. Always get a receipt and a written clause on how and when your deposit will be returned at the end of the lease.

3) Will my foreign driver's license work in Romania?

EU licenses are recognized. Non-EU license holders may need to convert to a Romanian license if residing long-term. Rules vary by country of issue and bilateral agreements. Check with DRPCIV for exchange eligibility. If an exchange is not possible, you may need to pass theory and practical exams. Your employer may guide you through the process.

4) Do I need CPC and a tachograph card to start working?

For most professional driving roles, yes. CPC is required for professional drivers, and a personal digital tachograph card is necessary for vehicles equipped with tachographs. If you already hold CPC and a tachograph card from another EU country, these are typically valid, but confirm with your employer. For non-EU drivers, plan to validate or complete CPC in Romania and apply for a Romanian tachograph card if staying long-term.

5) What are typical monthly living costs for a single driver in Bucharest?

A realistic budget ranges from 800 to 1,300 EUR per month. Expect 450-700 EUR for a 1-bedroom apartment, 100-150 EUR for utilities in winter, 20-35 EUR for phone and internet, 150-250 EUR for groceries, and 15-25 EUR for public transport if you use it. Costs vary with lifestyle and apartment quality.

6) Are pets accepted in rentals?

Some landlords accept pets, often with an additional deposit or slightly higher rent. Always ask before signing. Include pet terms in the lease to avoid disputes.

7) How do tolls and vignettes work in Romania for trucks?

Romania uses a road vignette system (rovinieta) for national roads, and certain bridges and motorways have separate tolls. Trucks fall into specific categories with different fees. Your company usually handles purchasing vignettes and toll payments, but you should know how to verify validity and keep receipts for inspections.

8) How does winter impact housing choices?

Look for well-insulated apartments with efficient heating. Ask for average winter utility bills. If you work night shifts or need daytime rest in winter, consider quiet neighborhoods and blackout curtains to improve sleep quality.

9) Can my employer provide accommodation?

Some logistics and bus companies offer temporary housing near depots or assist in finding rentals. This can be helpful during your first month. Confirm whether accommodation is deducted from salary or provided as a benefit, and request all terms in writing.

10) How do I register my residence for immigration purposes?

EU citizens apply for a Registration Certificate with IGI and provide proof of address (lease or landlord declaration). Non-EU citizens apply for a residence permit after arriving with a D/AM visa. For both, a registered lease or a hotel booking confirmation usually suffices. Always keep copies of your contract and receipts.

11) What Romanian terms should I know when renting?

"Contract de inchiriere" = lease agreement
"Garsoniera" = studio apartment
"Centrala pe gaz" = individual gas boiler
"Intretinere" = monthly building maintenance fees
"Inregistrat la ANAF" = registered with the tax authority

12) What if I need to change cities for work?

Negotiate an early termination clause or a short notice period in your lease if possible. Some landlords allow early termination with a 30-day notice if you find a replacement tenant. Always keep communication written and professional.

This guide is a starting point. For the latest immigration rules, CPC/ADR recognition, tachograph updates, and city-specific rental trends, consult official Romanian authorities, your employer's HR department, and accredited training providers. With preparation and the right accommodation strategy, your move to Romania can be both smooth and rewarding.