Driving License in Romania (2026)

Key Takeaways

✅ Cost: New driving license in Romania 1,200–1,800 RON (~$260–390 USD) including driving school, tests, and issuance. Non-EU license conversion: ~250 RON (~$55 USD). Digital license via mobile app (launched January 2026) — free for license holders.
✅ Timeline: 1–3 months in Bucharest (high demand); 6 weeks in Cluj-Napoca; 4 weeks in Timișoara and Constanța; 8 weeks in Iași. EU/EEA license holders: no conversion needed, use original license.
✅ Requirement: Minimum 18 years old (B category), medical certificate (authorised clinics), proof of residency (for non-Romanians), 24 hours theoretical + 30 hours practical training at accredited driving school, pass both written and practical tests.
⚠️ Warning: DUI penalties increased significantly in 2026 — up to 5,000 RON fine (~$1,085 USD) + potential imprisonment. 15 points within 6 months = license suspension. Zero alcohol tolerance (0.00% BAC). Non-EU license holders must convert within 1 year of obtaining residency.
✅ Pro tip: Cluj-Napoca is fastest for driving license (6 weeks vs Bucharest's 3 months). Digital license via DGPCI mobile app eliminates need to carry physical card — activate after issuance. Book practical test early — slots fill 2–3 weeks ahead in Bucharest.

Critical Warnings for Drivers in Romania

Zero alcohol tolerance: Romania has 0.00% BAC limit for all drivers. DUI penalties increased 2026 to up to 5,000 RON + imprisonment + license suspension. Random breath tests common.

1-year conversion deadline: Non-EU residents must convert driving license within 1 year of receiving residence permit. After 1 year, must take full Romanian test as new applicant.

Points system strict: 15 points accumulated in 6 months = license suspension. Minor violations: 1–3 points. Major: 4–6. Drunk driving: instant suspension.

Winter tires mandatory: Nov 1 – March 31, winter or all-season tires mandatory on snow/ice roads. Fine: 500–3,000 RON (~$110–650 USD).

Rural driving hazards: Livestock crossing common (cows, horses, sheep), especially at dusk/night. Horse-drawn carts legal in rural areas.

Rovinieta (road tax) required: Electronic vignette mandatory on national roads + highways. Without it: 250–500 RON fine + back-payment. Buy at roviniete.ro.

Medical certificate renewal: Must be renewed every 5–10 years (depending on age). Expired = license invalid.

Romania launched digital driving licenses via mobile app in January 2026, part of broader transport modernisation. Whether you're a local, EU resident, or non-EU expat, understanding the driving license process is essential — Romania has 965,000 km of public roads, an improving highway network, and growing EV infrastructure.

Quick Answer: Driving License in Romania

To obtain a driving license in Romania, you must pass both a theoretical and practical test. EU/EEA licenses are accepted without conversion, while non-EU licenses require conversion and testing. The process involves submitting a medical certificate, proof of residency, and paying a fee of approximately 250 RON.

Since January 2026, digital licenses accessible via mobile app have streamlined the process significantly. EU/EEA licenses are accepted without conversion for residents. Non-EU licenses require conversion (~250 RON / ~$55 USD) within 1 year of residency.

How to Get a Driving License in Romania — Step-by-Step

Step 1: Enrol in Driving School

Choose certified driving school. Required: 24 hours theory + 30 hours practical (Category B). Cost: 1,200–1,500 RON (~$260–330 USD). Duration: 6–12 weeks.

Step 2: Medical + Psychological Tests

Medical certificate from authorised clinic: 150–300 RON (~$33–65 USD), valid 12 months. Psychological test: 100–200 RON (~$22–43 USD), valid 6 months.

Step 3: Theoretical Test

Computer-based at DGPCI. 26 questions, 20 minutes. Pass: 22/26 correct (85%). Topics: traffic rules, road signs, mechanics basics. Fee: 6 RON. Retake after 15 days.

Step 4: Practical Test

With official examiner, 25–30 minutes in traffic. Evaluates parking, manoeuvres, traffic behaviour. Fee: 44 RON. Book 2–3 weeks ahead in Bucharest.

Step 5: License Issuance

Physical card: 68 RON (~$15 USD). Digital version via DGPCI app (free). Processing: 3–7 days.

Total Cost Breakdown

Item	Cost (RON)	USD
Driving school	1,200–1,500	$260–330
Medical certificate	150–300	$33–65
Psychological test	100–200	$22–43
Theoretical test	6	$1.30
Practical test	44	$9.50
License issuance	68	$14.75
Total	1,568–2,118	$340–460

EU/EEA License Holders in Romania

No conversion needed. Your EU/EEA license remains valid as long as it's not expired and matches Romanian category requirements. Exchange required only if: license expires while resident, license lost/stolen in Romania. Exchange process: apply at DGPCI, submit original license + ID + medical certificate, no driving test, fee 68 RON (~$15 USD), processing 14 days.

Non-EU License Conversion Requirements

Countries with Bilateral Agreements (Simplified)

Romania has bilateral agreements with: Moldova, Republic of Korea, Japan, United Kingdom (post-Brexit), Serbia, Switzerland. These nationals can convert without practical test.

Countries WITHOUT Agreement

Applicants from US, Canada, Australia, China, India, Middle East, etc. must: pass Romanian theoretical test, pass practical test, complete mandatory (reduced) driving school hours, submit translated + notarised original license, submit medical certificate. Fee: ~250 RON (~$55 USD). Must complete within 1 year of receiving residence permit. Beyond 1 year: full test as new applicant.

Romanian Driving License Categories (EU Standard)

Category	Vehicle Type	Min Age
AM	Mopeds, light quadricycles	16
A1	Motorcycles ≤125cc	16
A2	Motorcycles ≤35kW	18
A	All motorcycles	24 (direct) or 20 (via A2)
B	Cars ≤3,500kg + ≤8 passengers	18
C	Trucks ≥7,500kg	21
D	Buses ≥16 passengers	24

Category B (most common): covers standard passenger cars, light vans (≤3.5 tons), up to 8 passengers. Validity: 10 years (renewable). Age 65+: renew every 5 years.

Traffic Rules, Speed Limits and Penalty Fines in Romania

Romania enforces strict traffic rules. Key speed limits: Urban 50 km/h (some zones 30), rural/country roads 90 km/h, expressways 100 km/h, motorways (Autostrăzi) 130 km/h. Right-hand driving. Headlights mandatory 24/7 outside cities. Winter tires mandatory Nov–Mar on snow/ice. Alcohol limit: 0.00% (zero tolerance!). Seat belts all seats. Children under 12: rear seat + appropriate car seat. Mobile phone without hands-free: illegal.

Penalty fines: minor violations 300–1,000 RON (~$65–215 USD). Major violations 1,000–2,000 RON (~$215–435 USD). DUI: up to 5,000 RON (~$1,085 USD) + imprisonment. 15 points in 6 months = license suspension.

🚨 Hidden Cost Alert

Costs often missed when getting a Romanian driving license:

Medical certificate renewal: Required every 5–10 years. Each renewal 150–300 RON (~$33–65 USD).

Psychological test: Often overlooked pre-requisite — 100–200 RON (~$22–43 USD). Valid 6 months only.

Driving school exam retakes: If you fail practical test: another school fee (~200–400 RON) + 44 RON test fee.

Translation + apostille (non-EU): Foreign license translation + apostille: 300–500 RON total (~$65–110 USD).

Lost document fees: Lost license replacement: 68 RON. Lost medical certificate: re-exam (150+ RON).

Category upgrade costs: Adding motorcycle category: separate school (1,000–1,500 RON) + tests.

DGPCI office queue time: Bucharest can require 1–2 days off work for application + test.

Older driver medical: After age 65, medical certificate required every 2 years instead of 5–10.

IDP for travelers: International Driving Permit ~150 RON (~$33 USD). Valid 1 year only.

Rovinieta (road tax): Electronic vignette mandatory on national roads. Without: 250–500 RON fine. Buy at roviniete.ro.

Driving License Process Comparison by City

City	Process Time	School Cost (RON)	Pass Rate	Notes
Bucharest	2–3 months	1,400–1,800 (~$305–390)	60%	High demand, slower
Cluj-Napoca	6 weeks	1,200–1,500 (~$260–325)	70%	Fastest in country
Timișoara	4 weeks	1,200–1,400 (~$260–305)	75%	Efficient
Constanța	4–5 weeks	1,200–1,400 (~$260–305)	68%	Seasonal variation
Iași	2 months	1,300–1,500 (~$280–325)	65%	Thorough training
Brașov	6–8 weeks	1,300–1,600 (~$280–350)	70%	Mountain driving

Recent Updates and Changes in 2026

📌 April 2026: DUI penalties increased — fines up to 5,000 RON + imprisonment. License suspension automatic. Source: mai.gov.ro

📌 March 2026: Online driving license application portal expanded — theoretical test booking digitised. Source: dgpci.mai.gov.ro

📌 February 2026: EV incentives for driving license holders — reduced registration fees. Source: mmediu.ro

📌 January 2026: Digital driving license launched via DGPCI mobile app — QR code verification replaces physical card. Source: dgpci.mai.gov.ro

📌 January 2026: Stricter emissions standards (Euro 6d+) affecting older vehicles. Source: mmediu.ro

City-specific Driving License Process Times

In Romania, the time it takes to obtain a driving license can vary significantly depending on the city. In Bucharest, the capital, the process can extend up to three months due to high demand and bureaucratic procedures. Conversely, in Cluj-Napoca, known for its efficient administrative processes, the wait time is typically shorter, averaging around six weeks. Meanwhile, in Timișoara, the process is often completed within a month, making it one of the more efficient cities for obtaining a driving license.

In Iași, another major city, the process can take about two months. The city's driving schools are known for their comprehensive training programs, which can be a contributing factor to the slightly longer wait time. In Constanța, the process is similar to Timișoara, often completed within a month, thanks to streamlined procedures and less congestion in testing schedules.

Insider Tips for Navigating Romanian Roads

Driving in Romania offers its own set of challenges and rewards. One insider tip is to always have cash on hand for tolls and parking fees, as not all locations accept card payments. Additionally, when driving through rural areas, be wary of livestock crossing the roads, which is a common occurrence. In urban areas, rush hour traffic can be intense, especially in Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca, so plan your travel times accordingly to avoid delays. Another practical piece of advice is to familiarize yourself with local traffic signs, as they may differ slightly from those in other European countries. It's also beneficial to download a reliable GPS app that offers offline maps, as mobile signal can be patchy in mountainous regions.

Understanding Romanian Driving Schools

Choosing the right driving school in Romania is crucial for a successful learning experience. Schools such as Școala de Șoferi AutoBucurești in Bucharest and Școala de Șoferi Napoca in Cluj-Napoca are highly recommended for their comprehensive training programs and high pass rates. These schools offer both theoretical and practical lessons, with instructors who are well-versed in the latest traffic laws and regulations. Courses typically include 24 hours of theory and 30 hours of practical driving, spread over several weeks. The cost of these courses can range from 1,200 to 1,500 RON ($265 to $330 to €300), depending on the school and city. Opting for a reputable school can make a significant difference in your confidence and competence on the road. By understanding these aspects of obtaining and using a driving license in Romania, you can navigate the process more smoothly and enjoy a more seamless driving experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a Romanian driving license?

1–3 months depending on city. Cluj-Napoca fastest at 6 weeks; Bucharest slowest at 3 months.

Can I drive in Romania with my foreign license?

EU/EEA license: yes, indefinitely. International Driving Permit (IDP): valid 1 year. Non-EU without IDP: not legal to drive in Romania.

How much does it cost?

Total ~1,500–2,100 RON (~$325–455 USD) including driving school, medical, psychological test, exams, and issuance fee.

Do I need to convert my non-EU license?

Yes, within 1 year of receiving Romanian residence permit. Process involves translated license, medical certificate, and tests (unless from bilateral agreement country).

Are digital driving licenses accepted by police?

Yes, since January 2026. Romanian police accept digital licenses via DGPCI mobile app. Keep physical license as backup.

What's the alcohol limit for drivers?

Zero tolerance (0.00% BAC). Any detectable alcohol = DUI. Penalties include fines up to 5,000 RON, license suspension, and potential imprisonment.

Do I need winter tires in Romania?

Yes, mandatory from November 1 to March 31 on snow or ice. Fine: 500–3,000 RON.

Can I use my Romanian license in other EU countries?

Yes, Romanian license is valid throughout EU/EEA + Switzerland.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

Retake after 15 days minimum. Some schools require additional practice hours. Third failure often requires restart of course.

What are the age requirements?

18 for Category B (car). 16 for mopeds/small motorcycles. 21 for trucks. 24 for buses and full motorcycle.

Final Thoughts

Getting a driving license in Romania is straightforward for EU/EEA residents (no conversion needed) and manageable for non-EU residents within the 1-year conversion deadline. With digital licenses launched January 2026, Romania has modernised a previously bureaucratic system.

The honest realities: EU/EEA license holders drive freely, no action needed. Non-EU residents must convert within 1 year of residency (or face full test). Total cost 1,500–2,100 RON (~$325–455 USD). Fastest city: Cluj-Napoca (6 weeks); slowest: Bucharest (2–3 months). Zero alcohol tolerance, strict points system. Digital license app now available. 10-year validity (5 years after age 65).

Smart process path: 1) Verify your license type: EU vs non-EU. 2) Check bilateral agreements (may skip practical test). 3) Get medical certificate at authorised centre. 4) Take psychological test. 5) Enrol in accredited driving school. 6) Complete 24h theory + 30h practical. 7) Pass theoretical then practical tests. 8) Receive license + activate DGPCI app. 9) Keep medical + psychological certificates current.

Romania offers a reasonable path to driving legally — whether you're a tourist (IDP), EU resident (automatic), or non-EU expat (conversion process). The digital era has simplified what was once a paper-heavy system.

Sources and Official Links

DGPCI (driving licenses) — dgpci.mai.gov.ro

Romanian Ministry of Internal Affairs — mai.gov.ro

IGPR (Romanian Police) — politiaromana.ro

Ministry of Transport — mt.gov.ro

Ministry of Environment — mmediu.ro

Rovinieta (road tax) — roviniete.ro

DGPCI mobile app (digital license) — App Store / Google Play

Emergency Numbers: 112 (Universal EU) | Traffic Police: 021 208 25 25

All information verified as of April 2026. License fees and requirements update annually — verify at dgpci.mai.gov.ro before applying.

Driving License in Romania