Romania – Buying or Importing a Car

How do I buy a new car in Romania as a foreigner?

The steps involved in purchasing a car in Romania are not overly complicated, and the market offers a solid selection of both new and pre-owned vehicles. That said, foreign nationals need to be aware of several important considerations before making any commitments.

A foreign passport alone is not sufficient to permanently register a car in Romania — you must hold official domicile or an officially recognised residence in the country in order to purchase and own a vehicle as a private individual. There is a limited exception: a foreign national without Romanian residency may buy a car for a period of no more than 30 days, after which the vehicle must leave the country. For anyone intending to remain in Romania long-term, sorting out your residency status is therefore the essential foundation before any vehicle purchase.

When acquiring a brand-new vehicle through a dealership, you will generally be asked to present your passport or national ID card, your Romanian residence certificate or permit, evidence of your address (such as a tenancy agreement or utility statement), and your Romanian personal identification number (CNP) or tax identification number issued by the National Agency for Fiscal Administration (ANAF). The dealership will take care of the Certificate of Conformity (CoC) for new vehicles, which is a mandatory document for the registration process.

If you have a reliable employment record and demonstrable income, you may be eligible for financing arrangements such as leasing or a personal loan, though lending rates in Romania are not particularly competitive. Paying by cash or bank transfer is the norm in Romania. Expats who have not yet built up a Romanian credit profile may find that outright cash purchase or financial leasing — where the leasing company retains ownership throughout the contract — is more readily available than a conventional bank loan. Always check the current eligibility requirements directly with your bank or leasing provider.

For authoritative guidance on vehicle purchase and registration requirements, refer to the Directorate for Driving Licences and Vehicle Registration (DRPCIV), which functions under the Romanian Ministry of Internal Affairs.

How do I buy a used car in Romania?

Romania’s second-hand car sector is large and dynamic. The used car market saw 5.1% growth in 2024 compared with the same period the previous year, with Dacia ranking as the most sought-after brand for used car registrations during the first half of 2024. Online platforms such as OLX and Autovit are the go-to resources for finding both private sellers and dealers.

Before signing anything, thoroughly verifying the vehicle’s background is essential. You should establish whether the car has any outstanding finance, unpaid fines, or unresolved tax liabilities attached to it. The Registrul Auto Român (RAR) website enables you to check a vehicle’s ITP validity by entering its registration number. You should also request a fiscal certificate from the local tax authority (DITL) to confirm that no local taxes remain unpaid against the vehicle.

Once you have identified a car that interests you, carry out a thorough physical examination. Engaging an independent mechanic or a professional vehicle inspection service to assess its condition and provide a written report is money well spent. Bear in mind that fraudulent intermediary arrangements exist in Romania’s used car scene. When purchasing a vehicle that has passed through multiple owners, always ensure that the sales documents include the name and identifying details of the person you are actually buying from.

For used vehicle purchases, both the seller and buyer typically attend a document drafting office to have the formal sales-purchase contract prepared. As the buyer, you must bring a valid identity document. The sales-purchase contract must be signed in five copies — three of which are retained by the buyer and two by the seller — for use in dealings with public authorities.

Following the sale, the buyer is responsible for re-registering the vehicle in their own name. The complete documentation file for vehicle registration must be submitted to DRPCIV within 30 days of purchase, regardless of the vehicle type. Missing this deadline risks a fine of 2,900 RON and the retention of the plates and registration documents.

Can I import a vehicle into Romania, and how does the process work?

Importing a vehicle into Romania from any country is permitted, though sourcing from another European Union member state is by far the most financially straightforward option. Since the vehicle is already within the EU, no additional customs duties or taxes are triggered upon entry into Romania. Importing from non-EU countries — such as the United States, Japan, or other markets — adds Romanian customs duties and VAT on top of all other registration-related costs.

Romania operates on left-hand traffic, and the overwhelming majority of vehicles on its roads are left-hand drive. Right-hand drive vehicles are not banned, but they may be subject to particular approval processes. If you plan to bring in a right-hand drive car, contact Registrul Auto Român (RAR) in advance to clarify the exact requirements, as modifications may be necessary.

To be registered in Romania, vehicles must meet EU emissions standards. Compliance with EU emissions regulations — Euro 4, Euro 5, or Euro 6 — is mandatory, and vehicles that fall short of these thresholds are unlikely to pass the technical inspection. Vehicles over 10 years old may face higher applicable taxes and more rigorous emissions scrutiny.

If you are relocating to Romania and wish to bring your personal vehicle with you, an exemption for personal effects or removal goods may be available under EU customs rules. This could allow you to import your car free of customs duty, provided you have owned it for at least six months before your move and are transferring your habitual residence to Romania. This relief does not typically apply to the establishment of a secondary residence. Always confirm current eligibility conditions with the Romanian Customs Authority (Autoritatea Vamală Română) before relying on this exemption.

The step-by-step import and registration process is as follows:

1. Purchase the vehicle and gather documents. Secure the original title deed, purchase invoice or sales contract, Certificate of Conformity (CoC), and any foreign registration paperwork. All documents in a foreign language must be rendered into Romanian by a certified translator and formally legalised.
2. Arrange shipping (for non-EU vehicles). Prior to import into Romania, the vehicle’s undercarriage must be thoroughly cleaned and free of any foreign soil, in order to prevent the introduction of invasive plants, animals, fungi, or microorganisms. Steam cleaning or equivalent deep-cleaning methods are typically used for this purpose.
3. Clear Romanian customs. On arrival in Romania, present all original documents to customs officials and settle any applicable customs duties. Non-EU imports require a Single Administrative Document (SAD).
4. Pay taxes at ANAF. Once customs clearance has been obtained, visit the local tax office (ANAF) to pay all required taxes — including VAT where applicable — and the environmental tax (Timbrul de Mediu). The environmental tax amount is determined by the vehicle’s engine capacity, emissions classification, and age, with older and more polluting vehicles attracting higher charges and newer eco-friendly models potentially qualifying for reduced rates or exemptions.
5. Obtain RCA insurance. Before moving forward with registration, purchase Romanian compulsory third-party liability insurance (RCA) and confirm that the policy satisfies the statutory minimum requirements.
6. Book an RAR inspection. Regardless of whether the vehicle originates from within or outside the EU, you must arrange an appointment at the Romanian Automotive Register (Registrul Auto Român – RAR). RAR will issue the Vehicle Identity Card (CIV) and conduct the initial technical inspection (ITP), formally certifying the vehicle’s authenticity.
7. Register at DRPCIV. Schedule an appointment online via the official website of the Directorate for Driving Licences and Car Registration (DRPCIV), selecting the office corresponding to the county in which you reside. Submit all required documentation, pay the applicable registration fees, and hand over the foreign number plates.
8. Collect Romanian plates. Once registration is confirmed, you may collect your registration certificate (Certificat de Înmatriculare) along with your new Romanian licence plates.

For customs enquiries, reach out to the Autoritatea Vamală Română. For tax payment matters, contact ANAF (Agenția Națională de Administrare Fiscală).

What are the costs involved in importing a car to Romania?

Importing a vehicle carries multiple layers of expense. Having a clear picture of all of these costs from the outset allows you to budget accurately and avoids unpleasant financial surprises along the way. Bringing a vehicle in from outside the EU adds considerably to the overall cost compared with sourcing from within the EU, where no customs duty is levied.

Romania levies a registration charge based on a vehicle’s CO2 output, referred to as the “Environmental Stamp” or “Timbrul de Mediu,” which is calculated according to both the emissions level and the engine capacity. As an illustration, a five-year-old Euro 5 vehicle emitting 150g/km of CO2 might attract a charge in the region of €300–400, though exact rates are subject to change and should always be confirmed before purchase.

Vehicles built to US market specifications may need modifications such as headlight realignment, the addition of front fog lights, or upgrades to cooling systems before they can pass inspection. The vehicle must satisfy Romanian safety and emissions standards at the ITP. Similar adaptation work may be required for vehicles from other non-EU markets. The cost of such modifications varies by vehicle and is best obtained as a quote from a local workshop or an RAR-approved centre before you finalise an import decision.

Romania’s standard VAT rate of 19% applies to the taxable base of any operation that is not exempt or subject to a reduced rate. Always verify the current duty rates and VAT regulations with ANAF and the Autoritatea Vamală Română, as these can be amended over time.

How do I register a vehicle in Romania?

The allocation and issuance of vehicle number plates in Romania falls under the remit of local Public Community Services for Driving Licences and Vehicle Registration, which operate within the General Directorate for Driving Licences and Vehicle Registration (DRPCIV) under the Ministry of Internal Affairs. DRPCIV is the authority you will deal with for all final stages of the registration process.

Foreign nationals holding a Romanian residence certificate must register any overseas vehicle within 90 days of bringing it into Romania in order to remain compliant with local regulations. Failure to respect this deadline can lead to fines, vehicle impoundment, or other enforcement measures.

The documents required for vehicle registration include:

• Completed DRPCIV registration application form
• Proof of ownership — original purchase invoice or sales-purchase contract, stamped by the local tax authority (DITL)
• Valid identity document (passport or Romanian ID card)
• RAR Certificate of Authenticity and Vehicle Identity Card (CIV) — mandatory for imported vehicles
• Certificate of Conformity (CoC) issued by the manufacturer — mandatory for vehicles manufactured after 31 August 2018
• Valid ITP (roadworthiness inspection) certificate
• Valid RCA insurance policy in the applicant’s name
• Fiscal certificate from the local Directorate of Taxes and Local Fees (DITL)
• Proof of VAT payment (for vehicles brought from the EU where VAT was not included in the purchase price)
• For imported vehicles: foreign registration documents (original), with certified Romanian translations

Secure your RAR appointment well in advance, as waiting times can run into several weeks. During your visit, the vehicle will undergo a technical inspection (ITP) covering roadworthiness, emissions compliance, and identity verification. RAR will then issue a Vehicle Identity Card (CIV) along with a certificate of authenticity.

From start to finish, the full registration process generally takes between one and two months, depending on how quickly appointments can be secured at both RAR and DRPCIV. Imported vehicles may require additional time due to the more involved inspection procedures involved.

Legislation passed by the Romanian Parliament now permits certain registration and deregistration processes to be handled online, enabling drivers to complete applications for vehicle circulation authorisation, deregistration, or ownership transfer digitally. Consult the DRPCIV website for the latest details on online appointment booking and digital document submission.

What insurance do I need to drive legally in Romania?

RCA is the mandatory insurance without which driving on public roads is prohibited. This policy covers damage caused to third parties in an accident for which the insured driver is responsible. RCA (Asigurare de Răspundere Civilă Auto) is Romania’s compulsory motor third-party liability insurance, broadly equivalent to the third-party liability cover required across most other EU member states — it is a legal prerequisite for both vehicle registration and driving on public roads.

No vehicle registration in Romania can be finalised without a valid RCA policy in place. The policy must be held in your name and must meet the legally prescribed minimum coverage levels. It is worthwhile comparing quotes from multiple providers, as premiums differ depending on the vehicle’s technical characteristics, your driving background, and your place of residence.

RCA pricing takes into account the driver’s age, the car’s engine specifications, and the driver’s Bonus Malus Class (B0–B8). For electric vehicles, the output of the electric motor and the vehicle’s weight are also factored in. This Bonus-Malus framework is conceptually comparable to the no-claims discount arrangements found in many other countries, but in Romania it operates as a standardised, class-based structure that all authorised insurers are required to apply uniformly.

Romania’s motor insurance sector is privately operated and competitive, with multiple licensed providers rather than a single state insurer. You may purchase RCA from any insurer that has been authorised by the Financial Supervisory Authority (Autoritatea de Supraveghere Financiară — ASF), the body responsible for overseeing the insurance industry in Romania. The ASF website maintains a list of all approved insurers and provides guidance on consumer rights and protections.

Beyond the compulsory RCA, many motorists elect to take out optional comprehensive (CASCO) insurance, which covers risks such as theft, fire, and accidental damage to their own vehicle. This is not required by law, but is well worth considering — particularly for newer or more valuable cars. If you have a history of claim-free driving from another country, enquire directly with prospective insurers whether they are willing to factor this into your premium, as approaches vary significantly between providers.

What driving licence do I need in Romania as an expat?

Driving licences issued by EU and EEA member states are recognised in Romania and do not need to be converted, allowing holders to continue driving on their existing licence for as long as it remains valid. For those holding licences issued by countries outside the EU, the rules depend on your country of origin and your residency status in Romania.

Provided you have a valid national driving licence together with an International Driving Permit (IDP), you may drive in Romania on a temporary basis for up to 90 days. An IDP is strongly recommended for non-EU licence holders, as it provides a certified translation of your licence and is recognised under the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, to which Romania is a party. It is important to note that an IDP is not a standalone document — it must be carried alongside the original national licence at all times.

Once you have established legal residency in Romania, holders of non-EU licences will be required to exchange their foreign licence for a Romanian equivalent. For EU/EEA licence holders who become Romanian residents, exchanging the licence is advisable for full administrative simplicity, though it may not be immediately obligatory. The exchange procedure involves submitting your foreign licence, Romanian residency documentation, and a medical fitness certificate, together with a completed application at your local DRPCIV office.

Romania has bilateral licence exchange agreements with a number of countries that allow for a direct swap without requiring candidates to sit a new driving test. The specific countries covered by these arrangements and the applicable procedures should be verified directly with DRPCIV, as agreements are periodically updated. If your country is not covered by a bilateral agreement, you may be required to pass some or all components of the Romanian driving test.

For the most up-to-date information on licence exchange procedures and eligibility criteria, visit the DRPCIV website or call in at your nearest DRPCIV office in person.

How do I sell a car in Romania?

Transferring ownership of a vehicle in Romania is an administratively straightforward process, but sellers must follow the correct steps carefully to protect themselves from any liability that could otherwise persist after the car has changed hands.

Prior to completing the sale, the seller must have the following documents ready:

• The original vehicle registration certificate (talon)
• A valid ITP (roadworthiness certificate)
• The fiscal certificate obtained from the local tax authority (DITL), confirming there are no outstanding vehicle taxes
• A valid identity document

In the case of used vehicles, both the seller and the buyer typically attend a document drafting office together to have the official sales-purchase contract drawn up using a standard template. The sales-purchase contract must be executed in five copies — three of which remain with the buyer and two with the seller — for subsequent use in dealings with public authorities.

After the transaction, the seller remains technically liable for the vehicle until the buyer completes the re-registration. This is a crucial point: if the buyer is involved in an accident or receives traffic penalties before registering the car in their own name, these matters may initially be recorded against the seller’s details. To guard against this, once 30 days have elapsed since the sale, the seller may submit a copy of the sales-purchase contract together with a handwritten declaration to DRPCIV confirming that they have divested themselves of the vehicle. Taking this step promptly will protect the seller from the inconvenience of receiving fines or other notices relating to a car they no longer own.

It is also advisable for the seller to cancel or transfer the annual road tax (impozit auto) at the local tax authority (DITL) following the sale, to avoid being charged for subsequent tax periods. Romania does not generally impose capital gains tax on the private sale of a personal vehicle, but if you are disposing of vehicles in a commercial capacity or with regularity, seek advice from a Romanian tax professional and confirm your obligations with ANAF.

Are there any ongoing costs or obligations for vehicle ownership in Romania?

Keeping a vehicle on Romanian roads entails a number of recurring costs and legal duties. Familiarising yourself with these from the outset allows you to plan your annual motoring expenditure with confidence.

Vehicle road tax (impozit auto): Every vehicle owner in Romania is required to pay an annual vehicle tax (impozit pe mijloace de transport) to their local council (primărie) or Directorate of Taxes and Local Fees (DITL). The sum owed is calculated on the basis of the vehicle’s engine capacity and is paid to the authority in the area where you are registered as a resident. This is broadly analogous to annual vehicle excise duty or road fund licence systems found across many other EU countries.

Periodic Technical Inspection (ITP — Inspecția Tehnică Periodică): All vehicles in Romania must pass a periodic technical inspection (ITP). Cars younger than 12 years old are required to undergo this inspection every two years, while vehicles aged 12 years or more must be inspected annually. The inspection encompasses checks on the engine, braking system, tyres, lights, and emissions. Functionally, it is comparable to the UK’s annual MOT or Germany’s TÜV inspection, though newer vehicles benefit from a longer interval between tests. A successful inspection is indicated by a coloured sticker affixed to the front licence plate.

RCA insurance renewal: Your compulsory RCA third-party liability insurance must remain in force at all times. Policies are generally issued on an annual basis and must be renewed before they expire, both to stay within the law and to avoid any gap in coverage.

Emissions standards and low-emission zones: Several Romanian cities, including Bucharest, have introduced low-emission zones that restrict access for older, higher-polluting vehicles. If you drive a vehicle that does not meet current standards, check whether access limitations apply in cities you visit regularly. EU-level standards require compliance with at least Euro 4 emissions norms for vehicles to be registered and legally operated.

Vignette (Rovinieta): Access to Romanian national roads and motorways requires a valid electronic road tax vignette known as the rovinieta. This can be purchased at any petrol station across the country and is also available through the official roviniete.ro website. The rovinieta is sold in daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual formats. Driving on covered roads without a valid rovinieta will result in a fine.

For current tax rates and inspection fees, always check with ANAF (for tax obligations), RAR (for ITP fees and scheduling), and your local council (for the annual vehicle tax).

Frequently asked questions

Can I buy a car in Romania without being a Romanian resident?

A foreign passport alone does not entitle you to permanently register a car in Romania — you must hold official domicile or a recognised residence status in the country. The one exception is that a foreign national without Romanian residency may purchase a car for up to 30 days, after which it must be taken out of Romania. Anyone planning to stay in the country long-term should make establishing residency their first priority before acquiring a vehicle.

Do I need a Romanian tax number (CNP or CIF) to buy a car?

Yes. To register a vehicle permanently in your name in Romania, you will require either a Romanian Personal Identification Number (CNP) as a private individual, or a Fiscal Identification Code (CIF) as a business entity. EU citizens can obtain a CNP upon registering their residence with the relevant local authority. Non-EU nationals receive a CNP when their residence permit is issued. Contact ANAF for guidance on acquiring the appropriate fiscal identifier.

Are there any restrictions on importing older vehicles into Romania?

Older vehicles can be imported into Romania, but there are notable considerations. Cars over 10 years old may attract higher taxes and face more rigorous emissions scrutiny. All vehicles must comply with EU emissions requirements (Euro 4, Euro 5, or Euro 6), and those that do not meet the applicable standard are unlikely to pass the ITP technical inspection. Always check current emissions thresholds with RAR before committing to the import of an older vehicle.

How long does vehicle registration take in Romania?

The entire registration process typically takes between one and two months, subject to the availability of appointments at RAR and DRPCIV. Imported vehicles may take longer given the additional inspection steps involved. Booking your RAR appointment early is advisable, as lead times can extend to several weeks. While your application is being processed, you are permitted to drive on temporary red plates (autorizație provizorie).

Is my foreign no-claims bonus recognised for RCA insurance in Romania?

There is no automatic or guaranteed recognition of a foreign no-claims history within Romania’s formalised RCA Bonus-Malus system. Premiums are influenced by your vehicle’s technical specifications, your driving record, and your location. It is worth asking individual insurers directly whether they are prepared to take your overseas driving history into consideration when calculating your quote. The Financial Supervisory Authority (ASF) is responsible for regulating RCA insurers and can provide guidance on your rights as a consumer.

Can I drive in Romania on a foreign driving licence?

Holders of EU/EEA driving licences may drive in Romania without converting their licence, for as long as it remains valid. Non-EU licence holders travelling with a valid International Driving Permit may drive in Romania on a temporary basis for up to 90 days. Once residency is established, non-EU licence holders will need to exchange their foreign licence for a Romanian one. Check the current procedures and any bilateral agreement that may apply to your country directly with DRPCIV.

What is the rovinieta, and do I need one?

The rovinieta is a compulsory electronic road vignette that grants authorisation to use Romania’s national road and motorway network. Every motorised vehicle must carry a valid rovinieta when travelling on these roads. It is sold in daily, weekly, monthly, and annual denominations, and can be bought at petrol stations or online through roviniete.ro. Using covered roads without a valid rovinieta constitutes an offence and will result in a fine.

What happens if I sell a car in Romania and the buyer does not re-register it?

Once 30 days have passed since the sale, the seller is entitled to submit a copy of the sales-purchase contract along with a handwritten declaration to DRPCIV confirming that they have disposed of the vehicle. This step shields the seller from fines or other complications that may arise if the buyer neglects to transfer the registration into their own name. Completing this procedure promptly after any sale is strongly recommended.