Romania – Driving Licenses

Can foreign nationals drive in Romania on their home country licence, and for how long?

The entitlement of a foreign national to drive in Romania using their existing licence depends primarily on two factors: whether that licence was issued by an EU or non-EU country, and whether the individual is a temporary visitor or a long-term resident. Understanding which category you fall into before taking to Romanian roads is well worth the effort.

Driving licences issued by EU member states are fully recognised in Romania and remain valid for the period shown on the document itself. There is no requirement to exchange an EU licence simply as a consequence of relocating to Romania, although drivers may choose to do so voluntarily. This mutual recognition flows from EU-wide harmonisation under Directive 2006/126/EC, which is binding across all member states.

Drivers holding a licence issued outside the EU are permitted to use it in Romania for a period not exceeding two years from the point of establishing residency. Once that period has elapsed, or if the licence expires in the meantime, the holder must obtain a Romanian driving licence.

The obligation to convert a foreign licence arises only once a person becomes a Romanian resident — defined as spending a minimum of 185 days per year in the country, or regularly returning to an address in Romania for personal or professional reasons. Tourists and short-stay visitors, on the other hand, may generally drive on their valid foreign licence for the duration of their stay without any conversion requirement.

If you are in Romania on a short-term work contract and have not yet established legal residency, your situation may differ from that of a permanent resident. It is advisable to clarify your specific circumstances directly with the relevant Romanian authority before driving.

Does Romania have licence exchange agreements with other countries?

Romania maintains a fairly extensive network of arrangements with foreign countries that allow licence holders to swap their documents for a Romanian equivalent without undergoing a new driving examination. These arrangements fall broadly into two categories: countries that are signatories to international road traffic conventions and whose licences are directly recognised, and countries not party to those conventions but with whom Romania has concluded bilateral arrangements.

Where a recognition arrangement is in place, no examination is required — the conversion proceeds solely on the basis of the documents submitted. The scope of these arrangements is wide, covering much of Europe alongside numerous countries in Asia, the Americas, the Middle East, and parts of Africa.

Among the non-EU countries specifically included in exchange arrangements, the list encompasses — though is not limited to — San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Seychelles, South Africa, South Korea, Syria, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Uruguay, and Uzbekistan.

A separate annex addresses countries that are not parties to the international road traffic conventions but whose licences may nonetheless be exchanged without examination. This group includes Canada, South Korea, Egypt, Jordan, Japan, Lebanon, Syria, the United States, Turkey, and China — although in China’s case, only Category B licences are eligible for exchange until a comprehensive bilateral treaty is finalised.

While a test is not required for licence holders from most countries worldwide, exceptions are provided under Romanian law. The list of covered countries is also subject to revision over time. It is always advisable to confirm the current position directly with DRPCIV or via the official Romanian legislation portal before submitting your application, as new agreements may come into effect and existing ones may be amended.

If your home country does not appear on any recognised list, you will not be able to convert your licence through the exchange route and will instead need to complete the full Romanian driving test process. Nepalese nationals, for instance, currently fall into this category as no convention exists between Nepal and Romania — meaning they may only drive in Romania when carrying both their national licence and a valid International Driving Permit.

How do you exchange or convert a foreign driving licence in Romania?

Romania’s licence exchange procedure follows the same general principle as equivalent processes in other EU countries — residency is a prerequisite, and the original document must be surrendered — but there are certain administrative steps that are particular to Romania and worth familiarising yourself with before you begin.

It should be noted at the outset that certain categories of licence are ineligible for exchange regardless of the issuing country. These include international driving licences, licences that have expired (with limited exceptions for EU-issued documents), licences that have been cancelled or are subject to restrictions, provisional or learner licences, and licences held by individuals convicted of serious road traffic offences.

The following steps apply to holders of eligible foreign licences seeking to exchange for a Romanian one:

1. Confirm your residency status. A Romanian driving licence can only be issued to a person who is a Romanian resident. Make sure your residence permit or registration certificate is valid and up to date before you begin the process.
2. Obtain a medical certificate. A medical assessment demonstrating your fitness to drive the vehicle categories listed on your current licence is required. If you wish the new Romanian licence to carry a longer administrative validity than your existing foreign licence, a certificate from an authorised medical facility explicitly confirming your fitness for the relevant categories is mandatory. The current list of authorised facilities is available on the Romanian Ministry of Health’s website.
3. Obtain an authenticity certificate for your licence. This certificate confirms the genuineness and validity of your foreign driving licence and must be provided by the authority that originally issued it. In some cases, the consulate of the relevant country located in Romania may be in a position to issue this document on the issuing authority’s behalf.
4. Arrange a certified Romanian translation. If your licence was issued by a country outside the EU, Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein, or Norway, you are required to provide a certified Romanian translation of your driving licence. The translation must be produced by an accredited translator and subsequently notarised by a notary public.
5. Gather supporting documents. You will need your identity document together with documentation establishing your domicile or residence in Romania, such as a residence permit or registration certificate. Bring both originals and photocopies of every document required.
6. Complete the application form. The application form is completed on the day you attend the local Romanian Office for Driving Licences and Car Registrations to submit your file. The form is available in Romanian only, so if your Romanian is limited, consider bringing a Romanian-speaking contact or seeking assistance in advance.
7. Pay the application fee. Payment confirmation must accompany your application. At the time of writing, the fee was reported as 89 lei, payable by bank transfer or online. Always confirm the current fee with DRPCIV prior to attending, as the figure is periodically revised.
8. Submit your file in person. Your complete application file must be submitted personally at the DRPCIV office for the county in which you are registered as resident.

Following acceptance of your application, you will be issued a temporary permit valid for 15 days while your new licence card is produced. Your original foreign licence will be handed over to and retained by the Romanian authorities as part of the exchange. For the most current list of required documents, consult the DRPCIV website, as requirements may change.

How do you apply for a driving licence in Romania from scratch?

If you do not hold a foreign licence that qualifies for exchange — either because no recognition arrangement exists or because your licence falls into an ineligible category — you will need to go through the full process of obtaining a Romanian driving licence for the first time. This means completing an approved driving school programme and passing both a theory and a practical examination, a process broadly comparable to first-time licensing elsewhere in Europe.

Foreign nationals who wish to sit the Romanian driving licence examination must be able to show that they are resident on Romanian territory — that is, they must live there on a regular basis for a minimum of 185 days per year and have professional or personal ties to an address in Romania.

The route to obtaining a Romanian driving licence involves attending a registered driving school and passing a two-part examination comprising a theory test and a practical road test. Enrolment at an approved Romanian driving school is a mandatory requirement — independent study without formal school attendance does not qualify a candidate to sit either test.

The theory examination is computer-based and consists of 26 questions. To pass, a candidate must answer at least 22 questions correctly. Giving five incorrect answers results in automatic elimination from that sitting. The theory test is administered entirely in Romanian, so a sufficient command of the language — both written and spoken — is essential for anyone preparing to take the examination.

The practical road test lasts 25 minutes and requires the candidate to demonstrate competent and safe vehicle handling across a variety of scenarios, including turns, parking, and manoeuvres, while adhering to Romanian road traffic law throughout.

A medical examination confirming fitness to drive is also compulsory and must be completed at an authorised medical facility prior to enrolment at a driving school.

The total cost of attending a Romanian driving school — covering theory lessons, practical driving sessions, and examination fees — varies by provider and region, but typically runs to several hundred euros and can exceed one thousand euros in total. Confirm current fees and test booking procedures directly with your chosen driving school and with DRPCIV, as these figures are subject to change.

How do you renew a driving licence in Romania?

Once you hold a Romanian driving licence — whether acquired through the exchange route or by passing the full test — renewing it is a relatively straightforward administrative matter handled through your local DRPCIV office. The renewal procedure is identical for foreign nationals and Romanian citizens, provided both hold a Romanian-issued licence.

The validity period attached to a Romanian licence depends on the category held and the age of the driver. Standard category B licences are valid for 10 years, while professional categories — C, D, and E — carry a five-year validity. Additionally, the 10-year period applies to drivers under the age of 50, with those over 50 receiving a five-year validity regardless of vehicle category. This age-related distinction means renewal intervals become shorter as drivers grow older, a system mirrored in several other EU member states.

To renew your licence, you must attend the DRPCIV office in the county where you are registered. The standard renewal requires a valid identity document, evidence of Romanian residency, a completed application form, and payment of the applicable renewal fee. A medical certificate demonstrating continued fitness to drive is also normally required at the point of renewal and must be obtained from an approved medical facility.

There is currently no fully online renewal pathway for a Romanian driving licence — in-person attendance at the relevant DRPCIV office remains obligatory. Once your renewal application has been processed, a temporary permit valid for 15 days will be issued while your new licence card is prepared.

For the latest renewal fee and documentary requirements, refer directly to the DRPCIV website at www.drpciv.ro, as both fees and administrative requirements are periodically updated. As of 2024, the exchange and renewal fee was reported as 89 lei, but this figure should be verified before you attend.

Is an International Driving Permit valid in Romania?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a multilingual document designed to serve as an official translation of your national driving licence when driving abroad. It is not a standalone authorisation to drive — it must always be carried alongside the national licence it accompanies. Romania recognises IDPs issued under both the 1949 and 1968 United Nations Conventions on Road Traffic, meaning permits from a broad range of issuing countries are accepted.

If you are stopped by a traffic officer while driving in Romania, you should present both your domestic driving licence and your IDP together. The IDP alone, without the accompanying national licence, carries no legal authority.

A 1949 Convention IDP is valid for a maximum of one year from the date of issue, while a 1968 model IDP is valid for up to three years. In either case, the IDP cannot remain valid beyond the expiry date of the underlying national driving licence.

For tourists and short-stay visitors whose licences are not printed in the Latin alphabet, carrying an IDP is a practical way of ensuring that Romanian traffic police can readily read and verify their credentials. Under Government Decision No. 795 of 25 September 2025, holders of a valid US state driver’s licence may drive in Romania for up to six months without the need for an International Driving Permit. Comparable provisions may apply to holders of licences from other countries covered by Romania’s exchange agreements — check with the Romanian Embassy in your home country or with DRPCIV for the current position.

For those living in Romania on a permanent basis, an IDP is a tool suited to visitors rather than a long-term solution. Once you satisfy the residency threshold, local licensing law requires you to obtain a Romanian driving licence, and an IDP cannot substitute for this obligation.

To obtain an International Driving Permit for travel from Romania, contact the Automobil Clubul Român (ACR), the national motoring organisation that is authorised to issue IDPs to persons resident in Romania.

What are the penalties for driving licence offences in Romania?

Romanian road traffic law is enforced through a combination of administrative fines, a penalty points regime, and criminal sanctions reserved for the most serious breaches. Foreign nationals driving in Romania are bound by the same rules and face the same consequences as Romanian citizens — nationality provides no exemption.

Driving without a valid licence: Operating a vehicle on a public road without a valid driving licence is a criminal offence under Article 335 of the Romanian Criminal Code, punishable by one to five years’ imprisonment or a criminal fine. This is not a minor administrative matter — the consequences are significant and the legal framework treats it accordingly.

Penalty points system: Traffic violations in Romania result in penalty points being added to a driver’s record. Accumulating 15 points triggers a 30-day licence suspension; reaching 20 points results in a 60-day suspension; and reaching 30 points leads to revocation of the licence. Unlike penalty schemes in some other countries — such as the UK’s endorsement system, where points typically remain on record for several years — each point under the Romanian system is valid for six months from the date it is issued.

Confiscation by traffic police: A traffic officer is empowered to confiscate any driving licence or permit for a period of one to three months and to require immediate payment of any outstanding fines at the roadside.

Speeding and other violations: Exceeding the speed limit within a built-up area by 30 km/h may attract fines of up to 870 lei (approximately $190 at the time of reporting). Exceeding the motorway speed limit by more than 50 km/h can result in a 90-day licence suspension. (Figures current as of 2025 — consult the Romanian traffic authority for up-to-date penalty thresholds, which are subject to legislative revision.)

Driving under the influence: Romania applies a near-zero alcohol tolerance policy. The legal blood alcohol concentration limit is 0.00% for professional drivers, drivers with less than two years of experience, and those transporting goods or passengers. For all other drivers, the limit is 0.05%. Exceeding the applicable limit can result in fines, suspension of the driving licence, and imprisonment for the most serious cases.

Early payment discount: Drivers who settle fines within 15 days of receiving the penalty notice may benefit from a 50% reduction on the amount due. Drivers may also formally contest fines within the same 15-day window.

For current penalty thresholds and fine amounts, consult the Romanian Police (Poliția Română) or DRPCIV, as these figures are updated periodically through legislative changes.

Which government departments or agencies handle driving licences in Romania?

A number of official bodies share responsibility for regulating, issuing, and enforcing driving licence requirements in Romania. Understanding which agency is responsible for which function will help you navigate the system more efficiently.

DRPCIV — Direcția Regim Permise de Conducere și Înmatriculare a Vehiculelor
DRPCIV is the principal authority responsible for issuing driving licences in Romania. Operating as a subdivision of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, it authorises qualified individuals to drive motor vehicles on public roads in accordance with national legislation and EU regulations. DRPCIV manages licence exchanges, new licence applications, renewals, and vehicle registrations. Applications must be submitted in person at the DRPCIV office serving the county in which you are registered. The official website is www.drpciv.ro.

Poliția Rutieră (Traffic Police)
Enforcement of road traffic rules is the responsibility of the Poliția Rutieră, the dedicated traffic police unit that conducts roadside checks, issues penalty points, and applies initial sanctions for violations. The Poliția Rutieră operates within the broader structure of the Romanian Police (Poliția Română). Website: www.politiaromana.ro.

Ministry of Internal Affairs (Ministerul Afacerilor Interne)
The Ministry of Internal Affairs has oversight of DRPCIV and establishes the regulatory framework governing driving licences in Romania. For policy-level information and access to legislation, see www.mai.gov.ro.

Romanian Government e-services portal
The Romanian government’s e-services portal offers guidance in English on vehicle and licensing matters relevant to EU citizens. Visit www.e-guvernare.ro/en for information aimed at EU nationals living in Romania.

Automobil Clubul Român (ACR)
The ACR is Romania’s national automobile club and the body authorised to issue International Driving Permits to residents in Romania. The ACR can also offer practical guidance on Romanian motoring regulations. See www.acr.ro.

When visiting a DRPCIV office, bear in mind that staff may not routinely be available to assist in languages other than Romanian. If your Romanian is not yet at a functional level, consider bringing a Romanian-speaking companion or engaging the services of an immigration assistance provider.

Frequently asked questions

Can I drive in Romania with a non-EU licence as a tourist?

Yes. Visitors to Romania on a short stay can generally drive using their valid national driving licence throughout the duration of their visit. Depending on the country that issued your licence, carrying an International Driving Permit alongside it may also be advisable to assist traffic police in verifying your credentials. Check the latest official guidance, as a 2025 Government Decision has extended the period during which holders of certain national licences — including US licences — may drive without an IDP.

Do I need to retake my driving test in Romania?

Holders of a foreign driving licence issued by a country that has a recognition arrangement with Romania should be able to exchange their licence for a Romanian one without sitting a new driving examination. Where no such arrangement exists, the complete Romanian theory and practical test process must be undertaken.

How long does it take to get a Romanian driving licence through exchange?

Processing times vary depending on individual circumstances. After submitting a complete application file at your local DRPCIV office, you will normally receive a temporary driving permit valid for 15 days while your permanent licence card is being produced. Factor in additional time beforehand for assembling translated and notarised documents, a process that can take several weeks depending on the consular procedures of your home country.

Can I keep my original foreign licence after exchanging it in Romania?

No. When you exchange your foreign driving licence for a Romanian one, your original document is surrendered to and kept by the Romanian authorities. This is standard practice throughout the EU — the same requirement applies when exchanging a licence in Germany, France, or any other member state.

What happens if I drive in Romania on an expired foreign licence?

Expired licences are generally not eligible for exchange in Romania — EU-issued licences may be an exception in certain limited circumstances. Driving on an expired licence is treated in the same manner as driving without any licence at all, which constitutes a criminal offence under Article 335 of the Romanian Criminal Code and carries penalties including imprisonment or a substantial fine. Always ensure your licence is current before driving.

Is a Romanian driving licence valid in other EU countries?

Yes. A Romanian driving licence is recognised for driving in all EU and EEA countries. As a full EU member state, Romania issues licences in the standard EU credit-card format, which is subject to mutual recognition across the entire bloc — in the same way that a licence issued in France or Spain is accepted in Romania.

Do I need a medical certificate to exchange my licence in Romania?

If you wish your new Romanian licence to carry a longer administrative validity than your current foreign licence, a medical certificate confirming your fitness to drive the relevant vehicle categories is required. This certificate must be obtained from an authorised medical facility appearing on the list published by the Romanian Ministry of Health.

Where can I find the official list of countries whose licences can be exchanged in Romania?

The authoritative list of countries covered by exchange arrangements is contained in Government Ordinance No. 195/2002 and associated ministerial orders. The current version of the list is available on the DRPCIV website and through the Romanian legislation portal. Always check the list directly with DRPCIV before making your application, as it is revised periodically.