Document Authentication and Apostille for International Drivers

Introduction

Relocating from Global to Romania as a professional driver can open the door to stable EU employment, competitive earnings relative to the cost of living, and the chance to work across the European logistics network. Yet before the open road comes an administrative road map: getting your documents authenticated, securing an apostille where needed, and navigating the visa and work permit process. This is not just paperwork. It is the foundation that turns a job offer into a legal right to live and work in Romania.

If you are preparing to drive for a logistics company, trucking firm, bus operator, or delivery service, you will encounter two distinct but connected tracks: immigration formalities and professional certification. Immigration formalities include obtaining a Romanian work permit and a long-stay employment visa, registering your residence, and preparing legal documents like your police clearance, birth certificate, and educational or professional certificates. Professional certification involves recognition or conversion of your driving license, CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) compliance and code 95, ADR certification for hazardous goods if needed, and a Romanian digital tachograph driver card.

The single most misunderstood topic is document legalization. In practice, most Global drivers will need to apostille or consularly legalize certain documents issued in their home country before Romanian authorities will accept them. Add to that certified translations into Romanian and you have a multi-step process with strict sequencing. Get this right early and you will save weeks. Get it wrong and you risk delays to your work start date.

This comprehensive guide explains, in plain English, how to authenticate your documents, when an apostille is required, how visa and work permits work for non-EU citizens, and how to convert or validate professional credentials in Romania. You will also find practical insights on salaries and benefits, cost of living in cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi, EU driving regulations, and real-world tips from expats who already made the move.

Why Romania?

Romania is a strategically placed EU member state with strong ties to Central and Eastern Europe, the Balkans, and the Black Sea region. For drivers, that translates into consistent demand in international freight, regional distribution, and urban delivery networks.

EU membership and market access

Romania is part of the European Union. Once you hold a Romanian work and residence permit, you can work for Romanian employers who dispatch trucks and buses across the EU.
Many Romanian logistics companies operate international routes serving Germany, France, Italy, Austria, Hungary, Bulgaria, Poland, and beyond. This gives experienced drivers access to higher per diems and broader route options.

Competitive earnings with a lower cost base

Compared to many Western EU countries, everyday expenses in Romania remain attractive. Rent, groceries, public transport, and services cost less, allowing drivers to save from international per diems or domestic wages.
With a favorable RON to EUR exchange rate, savings can go further, especially for drivers supporting family abroad.

Strong demand for professional drivers

Romania faces similar driver shortages seen across Europe. Employers frequently seek C and CE drivers for tractor-trailers, D category drivers for buses and coaches, and B category drivers for last-mile delivery van roles.
The growth of e-commerce and cross-border trade keeps transport volumes high year-round.

Quality of life improvements

Major cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi offer international schools, private healthcare options, diverse food scenes, and vibrant cultural life.
Romania is known for scenic driving and mountain landscapes, with weekend access to the Carpathians and the Black Sea.

Job Market Overview

Romania's transportation and logistics sector is diverse. Here are the most common roles for foreign drivers:

International long-haul trucking (CE)

Tractor-trailer routes across the EU, typically 2 to 4 weeks on the road with rest periods. Employers often pay a base salary in RON plus tax-free per diems in EUR for days spent abroad.
Typical cargo: fast-moving consumer goods, automotive parts, textiles, temperature-controlled goods.
Employers: medium and large Romanian carriers dispatching to Western and Central Europe.

Regional and domestic distribution (C and CE)

Hub-to-hub or city-to-city runs inside Romania, sometimes with back-and-forth to neighboring countries such as Hungary and Bulgaria.
Day shifts or short rotations appeal to drivers who prefer regular home time.

Bus and coach driving (D)

Urban transport with municipal or private operators in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi.
Intercity and charter coach services for tourism and corporate travel.

Delivery services (B and C)

Last-mile parcel and grocery delivery in major cities.
Light trucks and vans serving e-commerce and retail clients.

Logistics hub support

Yard shunters and terminal tractor drivers in distribution centers.
Optional step for new arrivals while completing license conversion or documentation.

Who is hiring

Large trucking companies with international fleets.
Regional carriers that partner with EU logistics brands.
City transport companies and private bus operators.
Global and local parcel delivery services.

Hotspots include Bucharest and its ring road logistics parks, the Cluj-Napoca and Turda corridor, Timisoara's industrial belt near the A1 motorway, and Iasi with growing cross-border flows to Moldova and Ukraine.

Legal Requirements: Work Permits and Visa Process for Global Citizens

If you are not a citizen of an EU or EEA country, you must secure permission to work in Romania before you start. The process is employer-driven and typically unfolds in three phases: work permit, long-stay employment visa, and residence permit for work.

Phase 1: Employer obtains your work permit in Romania

Romanian employers apply for a work permit with the General Inspectorate for Immigration. Your role is usually classified as employed worker.
You will be asked to provide scanned documents: passport bio page, recent photos, proof of qualifications and experience, criminal record certificate, and sometimes a medical certificate.
Many documents must be legalized for use in Romania. If your country is party to the Hague Apostille Convention, you will need an apostille. If not, you need consular legalization. See the document authentication section for step-by-step details.
Processing time often ranges from 30 to 45 calendar days, depending on the workload and completeness of the file.

Phase 2: Apply for long-stay employment visa (type D/AM)

Once the work permit is issued, you apply for a Romanian long-stay employment visa at the Romanian consulate or embassy in your country of residence.
You will present your passport, work permit, recent photos, proof of accommodation or invitation, travel medical insurance for the first period, and legalized documents as requested.
Visa processing can take about 10 to 20 days. Fees and exact documentation vary, so verify with your local Romanian consulate.

Phase 3: Enter Romania and apply for residence permit for work

Travel to Romania with your D/AM visa, sign the employment contract, and register with the authorities.
Within the legal timeframe (often 30 days from entry or from signing your contract), apply for a residence permit for work at the General Inspectorate for Immigration office competent for your address.
You will need: passport, work contract, proof of accommodation (rental contract or employer-provided housing), health insurance coverage, and legalized documents if not already presented.
The residence permit card usually has a 1-year validity for employed workers and is renewable with ongoing employment.

Dependents and family reunification

After you receive your residence permit, certain family members may be eligible for family reunification based on meeting residence duration and income requirements.
Each family member will also need legalized civil status documents (marriage certificate, birth certificates for children) and certified Romanian translations.

Practical timelines and fees

Work permit: around 30-45 days.
Visa D/AM: 10-20 days after submission.
Residence permit: 30-60 days for processing.
Fees: expect several hundred euros overall across application fees, translations, apostille or legalization, medical checks, and courier charges. Exact fees vary by country and office.

Document Authentication and Apostille: What You Need and How to Get It

Before Romanian authorities accept foreign documents, they must be legally valid for use in Romania. This is the core of document legalization: apostille or consular legalization, followed by certified translation into Romanian when required.

Apostille vs consular legalization

Apostille: If your document was issued in a country that is a party to the Hague Apostille Convention, it can be legalized with an apostille stamp or certificate by the competent authority in that country. An apostille verifies the origin of the document and is recognized in Romania without further consular legalization.
Consular legalization: If your country is not party to the Hague Apostille Convention, you must legalize documents through a chain process that typically includes your Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Romanian consulate. This is more time-consuming than an apostille.

Always confirm your country's status and the competent authority via the official Hague Conference on Private International Law website.

Which documents usually require apostille or legalization

Criminal record certificate (police clearance) from your country of citizenship or residence.
Birth certificate and, if applicable, marriage certificate or divorce decree for family reunification and HR records.
Educational or professional certifications, if your employer requests proof.
Employer reference letters or driving experience attestations, if required by the Romanian employer.
Driving license verification letter or abstract of driving record, if requested for license exchange.

Note: Your physical driving license is an identity document and is not apostilled itself in most cases. Instead, supplemental letters or certificates issued by the licensing authority may be apostilled to confirm authenticity if the Romanian authorities request such verification.

Step-by-step: How to get an apostille in your country

Identify the competent apostille authority. This could be the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Justice, a court, or a regional government office, depending on your country.
Request the original document from the issuing authority. For example, a national-level police clearance with the correct signatory eligible for apostille.
If needed, notarize your document first. Some countries require notarization prior to apostille.
Submit your document for apostille. You can often apply in person, by mail, or via an authorized agent. Pay the fee.
Receive the apostille. It may be a stamp, sticker, or attached certificate. Confirm the document remains complete and undamaged.
Make copies for your records and scan a high-quality PDF. Romanian authorities will only accept originals or notarized copies, but scanned copies speed up employer pre-checks.

If your country is not party to the Hague Convention

Obtain the original document from the issuing authority.
Notarize it if required.
Legalize it at your Ministry of Foreign Affairs or equivalent.
Legalize it at the Romanian embassy or consulate in your country. They will confirm the signature and seal of your Ministry.
Translate it into Romanian after legalization and notarize the translation in Romania or at the consulate if allowed.

Certified Romanian translations and notarization

Most documents must be translated into Romanian by a sworn translator authorized in Romania. Translations are then notarized by a Romanian notary public.
You can translate in your home country too, but Romanian authorities often prefer translations done in Romania by authorized translators.
Bring your legalized originals to Romania. The translator will attach the translation to the copy of the original to be notarized.

Digital apostille and verification tips

Many countries now issue digital apostilles with a QR code or verification link. Print the document and bring the original digital file on a USB drive or secure cloud storage. Authorities may verify authenticity online.
Double-check names, dates, and passport numbers across all documents. Inconsistencies trigger delays. If your name spelling varies, obtain an official alias or name variation certificate and legalize it too.

Typical legalization timeline and costs

Apostille: 1 to 10 business days, depending on the country. Costs vary from modest administrative fees to higher charges in some jurisdictions.
Consular legalization: 1 to 4 weeks depending on the chain steps and consular appointment availability.
Translation and notarization in Romania: 1 to 3 business days for standard documents.

Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

Submitting documents without apostille or consular legalization. Always legalize first, translate second.
Allowing documents to expire. Some police clearances are considered valid for only 90 days from issuance.
Presenting laminated originals that cannot be authenticated. Request fresh originals suitable for legalization.
Using non-authorized translators. Always ask for a sworn translator authorized in Romania.

Certification and License Recognition in Romania

For professional drivers, paperwork goes beyond immigration. You must ensure your driving license and professional qualifications meet Romanian and EU standards.

Driving license exchange or validation

Authority: DRPCIV (Directia Regim Permise de Conducere si Inmatriculare a Vehiculelor) manages driving licenses in Romania.

Non-EU licenses: Many non-EU licenses can be exchanged for a Romanian license if Romania has reciprocity with the issuing country. Where an exchange is not possible, you may need to take theory and practical exams in Romania.
Time limit: Foreigners with a valid non-EU license may drive in Romania for a limited period after arrival or obtaining residence, often up to 90 days. Check the latest DRPCIV rules for the exact timeframe that applies to you.
Documents for exchange typically include: passport, Romanian residence permit or proof of legal stay, original foreign license, certified Romanian translation, a medical fitness certificate, and sometimes proof the foreign license is genuine (verification letter). The verification letter, if requested, should be legalized (apostille or consular legalization) and translated.
Language: Exams, if required, are usually in Romanian, though some centers may support other languages for theory with prior arrangement. A translator may be allowed.

CPC and code 95 for EU professional drivers

In the EU, professional competence for drivers is shown via code 95 on the driving license or a Driver Qualification Card. Romania recognizes this framework.
If you already hold a valid EU code 95 and exchange your EU license in Romania, the code 95 can be preserved if your training and validity are documented.
If you do not hold EU code 95, you must complete initial qualification or periodic training in Romania to obtain code 95 on your Romanian license. Training is typically conducted by accredited schools and overseen by the Romanian Road Authority.

ADR certification for hazardous goods

ADR certification is required for drivers transporting dangerous goods. It is recognized across Europe under the ADR Agreement.
If your ADR certificate is issued in the EU, it should be recognized as valid until expiry. For non-EU ADR certificates, you may need to retrain and obtain a Romanian ADR certificate.
ADR courses in Romania cover basic, tank specialization, and class-specific endorsements. Exams are administered by the Romanian Road Authority. The certificate is valid for 5 years, with refresher courses required for renewal.

Digital tachograph driver card

Authority: The Romanian Road Authority issues digital tachograph driver cards.

Requirements usually include: identity document or residence permit, Romanian driving license, recent photos, application form, and fee payment.
Your employer may help with the application. Processing can take several business days to a couple of weeks.
You must comply with EU tachograph rules and keep your card data safe. Lost cards must be reported promptly and replaced.

Medical and psychological fitness

Romania requires a medical examination and psychological assessment for professional drivers. These must be done at authorized medical centers.
Certificates must be current when you apply for license exchange, code 95, or job onboarding.

Example scenarios

Scenario A: You hold a CE license and code 95 from an EU country. On moving to Romania, you exchange your EU license. Your code 95 validity is preserved, and you apply for a Romanian tachograph card.
Scenario B: You hold a CE license from a non-EU country with no reciprocity. You complete a training program in Romania and pass the theory and practical tests. You then enroll in CPC periodic training to obtain code 95.
Scenario C: You hold ADR from outside the EU. You take ADR training in Romania and pass the exam to receive a Romanian ADR certificate.

Salary and Benefits

Compensation varies by role, route, and employer. Figures below are realistic 2024-era ranges to guide your planning. Exchange rates fluctuate, but for rough comparison 1 EUR approximated around 5 RON in recent years.

International CE drivers

Net monthly total (base plus per diems): roughly 1,800 to 3,000 EUR depending on route intensity and days away.
Structure: a Romanian base salary paid in RON plus daily allowances in EUR for days spent abroad. Allowances can be tax-advantaged under Romanian rules when properly documented.
Extras: safe driving bonuses, fuel efficiency bonuses, adherence to schedule bonuses.

Domestic C and CE drivers

Net monthly pay: roughly 4,500 to 7,000 RON, with potential overtime and route-based bonuses. Some employers offer daily allowances for cross-border short hops.

Bus and coach drivers (D)

Urban operators: around 4,000 to 6,000 RON net monthly depending on city and shifts.
Intercity or charter: often 5,000 to 7,500 RON net, plus trip-based per diems.

Delivery drivers (B and C)

Net monthly pay: around 3,500 to 5,500 RON with performance bonuses, vehicle type, and hours worked influencing the final number.

Benefits you may see

Paid CPC periodic training or partial reimbursement.
ADR training coverage when the role requires it.
Medical insurance options; many employers complement public coverage with private plans.
Meal tickets, holiday vouchers, and accommodation during long-haul rotations.
Paid leave in line with Romanian labor law, often 20 or more working days per year.
Support with residence permit renewals and administrative tasks.

Taxes and payslips at a glance

Employees in Romania generally contribute to pension and health funds through payroll. Income tax applies at a flat rate to taxable salary portions.
Per diems for international trips can be tax-exempt within legal thresholds when properly documented with trip itineraries and tachograph records.

Your actual package will reflect your experience, languages, route flexibility, and additional certifications such as ADR and oversize transport.

Cost of Living in Romanian Cities

Romania offers a generally favorable cost structure compared to Western Europe, but costs vary by city.

Housing

Bucharest: one-bedroom apartment near metro 450 to 650 EUR per month. Further out 350 to 500 EUR.
Cluj-Napoca: 400 to 600 EUR in central or student areas; outskirts 300 to 450 EUR.
Timisoara: 350 to 520 EUR for a one-bedroom in well-connected neighborhoods.
Iasi: 300 to 450 EUR for a one-bedroom near major employers or universities.

Deposits are typically one to two months of rent. Many landlords prefer signed rental agreements for residence registration.

Utilities and internet

Utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage): 80 to 150 EUR per month depending on season and apartment size.
Internet and mobile: 8 to 20 EUR per month for mobile data plans; home fiber internet often 7 to 12 EUR.

Food and daily expenses

Groceries for one person: 150 to 250 EUR per month with prudent shopping.
Eating out: lunch menu 6 to 10 EUR; mid-range dinner 12 to 25 EUR per person.

Transportation

Urban public transport passes: approximately 80 to 150 RON per month depending on city and coverage.
Fuel: price per liter can vary; budget realistically and monitor current rates.
Intercity travel: rail and coach services are affordable for days off.

Other costs

Health: public system is accessible; private clinics offer faster appointments at higher cost. Employers may include private health plans.
Childcare and schooling: bilingual and international schools exist in major cities and carry higher fees. Public schooling is free for residents.

Overall, a professional driver can achieve healthy savings, especially when earning international route per diems while keeping living costs in Romania.

Cultural Integration and Daily Life

Language basics

Romanian is a Romance language with Latin roots. English is widely spoken in business circles and among younger people in larger cities, but learning basic Romanian speeds integration and helps with administrative tasks.

Useful phrases:

Buna ziua - Hello
Multumesc - Thank you
Va rog - Please
Unde este - Where is
Stanga, dreapta, inainte - Left, right, straight ahead
Program - Schedule

Workplace culture for drivers

Punctuality matters. Respect dispatch schedules and appointment windows.
Compliance is taken seriously. Expect strict adherence to EU driving time rules, tachograph usage, and safety protocols.
Communication is direct and practical. Dispatch and depot staff appreciate proactive updates on delays or incidents.

Everyday living

Banking: open a Romanian bank account after obtaining your residence permit and address registration. Many banks offer English-language services in major cities.
SIM cards: prepaid and postpaid plans are affordable. Bring an unlocked phone.
Shopping: international chains and local markets are common. Many stores open late and on weekends.

EU Driving Regulations and Romanian Road Realities

Understanding EU rules keeps you safe and compliant.

EU driving times and rest periods

Daily driving: up to 9 hours, extendable to 10 hours twice a week.
Weekly driving: up to 56 hours; 90 hours over two consecutive weeks.
Breaks: at least 45 minutes after 4 hours and 30 minutes of driving, which can be split into 15 + 30 minutes.
Rest: daily rest of at least 11 hours (or reduced rest as permitted), weekly rest of 45 hours standard or reduced as allowed with compensation.
Record-keeping: tachograph usage according to EU Regulation 165 and related rules.

Romanian road rules and conditions

Driving on the right side of the road.
Speed limits vary by vehicle. For heavy goods vehicles, lower limits apply than for cars, especially outside motorways. Always check posted signs.
Winter conditions: mountain areas can see heavy snow and ice. Snow chains may be required and winter tires are a must during cold months. Carry emergency supplies and check weather for mountain passes.
Toll system: Romania uses a vignette called rovinieta for vehicles using national roads. Heavy vehicles pay road usage fees according to category and validity period. Some bridges and specific sections have separate tolls. Employers usually handle fleet toll accounts, but drivers should understand the basics and keep receipts.
Inspections: road transport authorities conduct roadside checks. Be ready with license, code 95 proof, tachograph card, ADR documents if applicable, vehicle papers, and daily check logs.

Practical Steps to Relocate: A Driver's Checklist

Use this step-by-step plan to reduce friction and save time.

8 to 12 weeks before travel

Secure a job offer. Ask the employer to confirm route type, equipment, training support, and assistance with immigration.
Gather civil documents: passport valid for at least 1 year, birth certificate, marriage certificate if applicable, and police clearance from your current country of residence or home country as required.
Confirm legalization requirements. Check if your country uses apostille or consular legalization. Start with police clearance, as it has short validity.
Request professional documents: license verification letter, employment reference letters stating positions, durations, vehicle categories, and duties. If your employer requires them, legalize and translate them.
Schedule medical and psychological appointments if your employer needs early screening.

6 to 8 weeks before travel

Employer submits work permit application in Romania. Provide scans of all documents.
Continue apostille or legalization of any pending documents. Prioritize police clearance and marriage/birth certificates.
Research Romanian translations. Identify a sworn translator in Romania for fast turnaround.
Prepare finances for visa fees, translation fees, and travel.

4 to 6 weeks before travel

Once the work permit is issued, book a visa appointment at the Romanian consulate. Prepare your file: passport, work permit, accommodation proof, medical insurance for initial entry period, legalized documents, and photos.
Confirm with your employer the onboarding plan: location, training schedule, and whether they provide temporary housing.
Read up on EU driving regulations and Romanian-specific rules to refresh your knowledge.

2 to 4 weeks before travel

Receive your visa. Book tickets to Romania. Keep all originals in your carry-on.
Arrange accommodation. A signed rental agreement helps with residence registration.
Scan and back up all documents to secure cloud storage.

In your first week in Romania

Sign your employment contract. Get HR to provide a list of onboarding steps.
Apply for your residence permit at the immigration office. Bring passport, work contract, proof of accommodation, health insurance, photos, and legalized documents if requested.
Schedule medical and psychological fitness checks if not already completed.
Start translation and notarization for any documents not translated yet.

Weeks 2 to 4

Begin license exchange process with DRPCIV if applicable. Ask your employer to book appointments and provide any required verification letters.
Enroll in CPC periodic training to obtain code 95 if needed.
Apply for your digital tachograph driver card.
If your role requires ADR, enroll in the ADR course and book the exam.

Ongoing

Keep your tachograph records tidy and download data as required by employer policy.
Track the validity of your residence permit, license, code 95, ADR, and medical certificates. Set reminders 90 days before any expiry.

Success Tips from Other Expat Drivers

Start legalization early. Police clearances and civil status documents can take longer than expected to apostille or legalize.
Keep a folder of originals and at least two sets of copies. Scan everything.
Clarify pay structure. Understand base salary vs per diems, payment dates, and what expenses are reimbursed.
Prepare for winter. Pack insulated gloves, a quality jacket, traction aids, flashlight, and emergency food and water.
Learn route-specific rules. Certain European cities have low-emission zones and delivery windows. Plan accordingly.
Communicate with dispatch. A quick update when delayed avoids penalties and keeps customers informed.
Build your Romanian basics. Even a few phrases help with weigh stations, fuel stops, and border crossings.
Network. Join driver groups based in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, or Iasi for local advice on routes, parking, and services.

Conclusion: Start with Legalization, Finish with a Safe Start

Your journey from Global to Romania begins on paper: apostilles or consular legalizations, certified translations, and a clean file for your visa and residence permit. From there, professional steps like license exchange, code 95, ADR certification, and a tachograph card turn you into a fully compliant EU professional driver.

Romania offers real opportunities in international trucking, regional distribution, urban buses, and delivery networks. With solid preparation, you can land quickly, integrate smoothly, and start earning while enjoying a lower cost of living. Begin today by listing the documents you need, confirming apostille or legalization requirements, and syncing your timeline with your prospective employer.

FAQ

1. What is the difference between an apostille and consular legalization?

An apostille is a standardized certificate that confirms the origin of a public document issued in a country that is party to the Hague Apostille Convention. Romania recognizes apostilled documents without further consular steps. Consular legalization applies when your country is not party to the Convention. You must legalize the document through your Ministry of Foreign Affairs and then at the Romanian consulate. Both methods aim to make your document legally valid for use in Romania.

2. Which documents should I apostille for Romanian immigration?

Commonly required are your criminal record certificate, birth certificate, and if applicable marriage certificate. Depending on your case, you might also apostille educational diplomas, employment reference letters, and a driving license verification letter. Always legalize first, then translate into Romanian.

3. Do I need an apostille on my physical driving license?

Usually no. The license itself is an identity document. However, Romanian licensing authorities may request a verification letter or driving record issued by your home licensing authority. That verification document, not the plastic license, should be legalized by apostille or consular legalization and then translated into Romanian.

4. How long does the Romanian work permit and visa process take?

A typical timeline is 30 to 45 days for the work permit, 10 to 20 days for the D/AM visa, and 30 to 60 days for the residence permit after arrival. Start legalization early to avoid bottlenecks.

5. Can I drive in Romania with my foreign license while waiting for exchange?

You may drive for a limited period, often up to 90 days after arrival or after obtaining residence, if your license is valid and recognized. The exact timeframe and conditions depend on DRPCIV rules and reciprocity arrangements. Begin the exchange process as soon as you can to avoid interruptions.

6. What is code 95 and do I need it?

Code 95 shows you hold an EU Certificate of Professional Competence for professional driving. For most professional driving roles in Romania and the EU, you must have code 95 on your license or an equivalent Driver Qualification Card. If you do not already have EU code 95, you will complete initial qualification or periodic training in Romania.

7. Is my ADR certificate recognized in Romania?

ADR certificates issued in EU countries are recognized across the EU until their expiry. If your ADR was issued outside the EU, you may need to retrain and pass the ADR exam in Romania to obtain a Romanian ADR certificate.

8. How do tachograph rules affect my daily work?

You must comply with EU rules on driving times, breaks, and rest. Use your digital tachograph driver card, make correct manual entries when required, and keep records. Employers download data periodically. Violations can lead to fines and disciplinary action, so plan routes and breaks carefully.

9. What is the rovinieta and who pays it?

Rovinieta is a road usage vignette for national roads in Romania. Heavy vehicles pay according to category and validity period. In most cases, your employer manages toll accounts and vignettes for company vehicles. Always confirm and keep evidence of valid payment in the vehicle.

10. Can I bring my family to Romania?

Yes, after you obtain your residence permit for work and meet certain conditions, your spouse and minor children may apply for family reunification. They will need legalized civil status documents and visas. Plan for translations, accommodation size, and schooling if applicable.

11. What if my country is not part of the Hague Apostille Convention?

Use consular legalization. First legalize at your Ministry of Foreign Affairs or designated authority, then at the Romanian consulate. Translate into Romanian after legalization. Start early because consular appointments can be limited.

12. Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

An IDP can help for short-term driving alongside your valid foreign license, but it does not replace license exchange if you plan to reside and work in Romania. For professional driving, you must meet Romanian and EU requirements including code 95 and, where required, ADR.

13. How do taxes work on per diems for international routes?

Under Romanian rules, daily allowances for international trips can be non-taxable within legal limits if properly documented. Your employer will structure your pay accordingly. Keep all trip records accurate and consistent with tachograph data.

14. What winter-specific rules should I know?

Use winter tires during cold months and carry snow chains when conditions require them, especially in mountain regions. Check road authority advisories before crossing mountain passes. Plan extra time for loading and unloading in winter.

This guide is your starting point. Always verify the latest legal requirements with the Romanian authorities, your employer, and the Romanian consulate in your country. With solid preparation, your move to Romania can be smooth, compliant, and rewarding.