Emergency Travel Documents and Consular Services

Introduction

Relocating from Global to Romania as a professional driver is a bold and rewarding move. You are looking for steady work in logistics, competitive EU-level earnings adjusted to a lower cost of living, and access to European routes that can elevate your career. But while you map out opportunities, training, and legal steps, there is a critical topic to plan for: what happens if your passport is lost, stolen, or damaged while you are on a run in Romania or transiting across European borders? This is where emergency travel documents and consular services become vital.

This guide is designed to help you navigate both sides of your journey. It explains Romania's transport job market, visa and licensing pathways, EU regulations, and day-to-day realities. Alongside this, it provides a clear, step-by-step playbook on emergency travel documents, what to do if your passport goes missing, how to contact your embassy or consulate, and how to keep your employment and travel schedule on track during an unexpected documentation crisis.

By the end, you will have a complete relocation roadmap for Romania and practical contingency plans to handle the unexpected with confidence.

Why Romania?

Romania is a compelling destination for drivers aiming to build an EU career.

EU membership and market access: Romania is a member of the European Union, offering alignment with EU road transport rules, driver qualifications, and cross-border logistics standards. This opens doors to international routes within Europe and to major logistics corridors.
Lower cost of living: Compared to Western Europe, Romania's cost of living is significantly lower, allowing your earnings to stretch further. Housing, food, and transportation are more affordable in cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi than in many Western capitals.
Strong driver demand: Romania's logistics sector has grown quickly with e-commerce, nearshoring of manufacturing, and major transport corridors linking the Black Sea, the Balkans, and Central Europe. Companies regularly recruit international truck, bus, and delivery drivers.
Strategic location: With the Port of Constanta on the Black Sea, proximity to Central Europe, and connections to Hungary, Bulgaria, Serbia, and Ukraine, Romania is central to regional supply chains.
Quality of life: Vibrant city life, natural landscapes in the Carpathians and Danube Delta, and a generally friendly, pragmatic work culture make Romania an attractive long-term base.

Job Market Overview

Romania's transportation and logistics industry offers opportunities across multiple driving categories. Demand fluctuates by season, sector, and macro conditions, but job listings are consistent year-round.

International Trucking (C/CE)

Profile: Long-haul and regional routes to Hungary, Bulgaria, Greece, Austria, Germany, Italy, and Poland. Many Romanian firms dispatch to Western Europe and back-to-back rotations.
Employers: DB Schenker Romania, DSV Romania, DHL Supply Chain Romania, Kuehne+Nagel Romania, FM Logistic, Aquila, and numerous medium-sized Romanian fleets that operate international lanes.
Typical work patterns: 2-4 weeks on international rotations with weekends or a week off, or weekly returns depending on route planning.
Equipment: Modern tractor units with digital tachographs, Euro VI engines, and safety systems. Refrigerated, curtain-side, container, and hazardous goods operations are common.

Domestic Freight and Distribution (C/CE)

Profile: Regional distribution for retail and FMCG, city deliveries to depots and large stores, intercity freight between logistics hubs and industrial parks.
Employers: Local carriers, retail chains, and third-party logistics providers servicing Romania's major cities.
Advantages: More frequent home time and predictable schedules.

Courier and Last-Mile Delivery (B/C)

Profile: City and suburban parcel delivery fueled by e-commerce growth.
Employers: Fan Courier, Sameday, Urgent Cargus, DHL Express.
Vehicle types: Vans (B category) and light trucks (C category), with tight urban delivery windows.

Passenger Transport (D)

Profile: City bus operations, intercity coaches, and private charter services.
Employers: STB in Bucharest, CTP Cluj-Napoca, STPT Timisoara, CTP Iasi, plus private coach companies and FlixBus partners.
Requirements: D category license and CPC for passenger transport.

Specialized and Hazardous Goods (C/CE with ADR)

Profile: Fuel, chemicals, medical oxygen, and other hazardous materials requiring ADR certification.
Employers: Specialized carriers with strict safety and compliance regimes.
Advantages: Often higher pay due to risk and skill requirements.

Legal Requirements: Visas, Work Permits, and Residency for Global Citizens

If you are a non-EU citizen relocating to Romania for driving work, you generally need a work authorization, a long-stay work visa, and a residence permit. Processes can vary based on bilateral agreements, but the following pathway is typical.

Step-by-Step Pathway

Job offer and work authorization
- Your Romanian employer applies for a work authorization (aviz de munca) with the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI). Processing times range from 2 to 4 weeks or more, depending on workload.
- Documents from you: passport copy, CV, proof of qualifications and driving licenses, clean criminal record, medical certificate, and sometimes proof of experience. Some documents may require apostille/legalization and certified Romanian translations.
Long-stay work visa (D/AM)
- Once the work authorization is issued, you apply for a long-stay work visa at a Romanian embassy or consulate in your country of residence.
- Documents: passport valid for at least 6-12 months, work authorization, employment contract or firm offer, proof of accommodation or employer letter, medical insurance for the visa period, criminal record certificate, recent photos, and consular fees.
- Processing: typically 10-20 working days, but it can vary. Apply early.
Entry to Romania and residence permit
- Enter Romania using your D/AM visa. Within 90 days of arrival (or as instructed), apply for your residence permit (single permit for work) at IGI.
- Documents: passport, visa, employment contract, proof of accommodation, health insurance coverage, proof of tax registration if required, and fees. You will be issued a residence card after approval.
Family reunification (optional)
- After you hold a valid residence permit, your spouse and dependent children may be eligible to apply for family reunification visas. Timelines and documentation requirements vary.

Important Notes

Keep everything consistent: your name spelling on all documents must match your passport, including middle names where applicable.
Translation and legalization: many documents from abroad must be translated into Romanian by a certified translator and legalized (or apostilled, if your country is part of the Hague Convention).
Renewals: start renewals early to avoid gaps in legal stay and work authorization.

Emergency Travel Documents and Consular Services in Romania

Losing your passport or having it stolen is stressful, especially when you are mid-route with delivery deadlines. Romania's cities and highways are generally safe, but incidents can happen. Here is a detailed emergency plan.

Immediate Actions if Your Passport is Lost or Stolen

Stay calm and secure your other documents
- Move to a safe location. Secure your driver card, residence permit, work ID, tachograph card, bank cards, and vehicle documents.
File a police report (declaratie)
- Go to the nearest police station or call 112 for guidance. For theft, provide details about location, time, and suspected circumstances. Request a report or reference number. This report is essential for your embassy and sometimes for immigration authorities.
Notify your employer immediately
- Your dispatcher or HR can help coordinate schedules, provide letters for consular support, and sometimes connect you with legal or relocation assistance.
Contact your embassy or consulate
- Most embassies are in Bucharest. If your country has no mission in Romania, your embassy may be accredited from a nearby country and can guide you remotely or through an honorary consulate.
- Provide: police report, passport details (photos or scans), proof of identity (driver's license, residence permit), biometric photos, and travel itinerary.
Check immigration status
- If you hold a valid Romanian residence permit, you can prove legal stay while waiting for a new passport or emergency travel document (ETD). If you are in Romania on a visa or visa-free status, keep copies of your entry stamp and travel bookings.

What Is an Emergency Travel Document (ETD)?

An ETD is a temporary travel document issued by your embassy or consulate to allow you to travel, usually for a one-way journey back to your home country or to continue to a specific destination. Names vary by country: emergency passport, emergency travel certificate, or laissez-passer.
Validity: often a few days to a few months. Check route-specific restrictions and whether transiting countries accept your ETD.
Purpose: ETDs are commonly used to return home, but many embassies can issue them to continue essential travel, such as returning to your base or reaching a consulate to finalize a full passport.

How to Obtain an ETD in Romania

Book an appointment: most embassies require online appointments, though some process urgent cases the same day.
Bring required documents:
- Police report or case number.
- Proof of identity and citizenship: photocopies or scans of your lost passport, national ID, or birth certificate if available.
- Romanian residence permit or visa, if applicable.
- Passport photos meeting your embassy's specifications.
- Itinerary proof: ticket booking or route plan.
- Fees: carry card and cash options.
Processing times: same day to 3 working days for many countries. Some may take longer if identity verification is needed.

Traveling With an ETD In and Out of Romania

Airlines and borders: confirm with your airline and transiting countries that they accept your ETD. Romania aligned air and sea Schengen checks in 2024, but land border checks remain in place; always verify requirements for each leg of your journey.
Within Romania: carry your ETD and police report at all times if you are in transit to exit or to your embassy. If you have a Romanian residence card, carry it with you.
Returning to work: once you have a new passport, update your employer, immigration records, bank, and any pending visa or permit applications.

If Your Driving License Is Lost With Your Passport

Report the loss to the police and your employer.
Contact the issuing authority in your home country for a replacement or verification letter.
If you already exchanged your license in Romania, contact DRPCIV (Romania's driver licensing authority) for replacement procedures. Bring your residence permit, ID, and police report.
Without a valid license, you cannot legally drive. Arrange temporary non-driving duties with your employer if possible.

If Your Tachograph Card Is Lost or Stolen

Report immediately to the issuing authority. In Romania, driver cards are issued by ARR (Autoritatea Rutiera Romana).
You may drive without a card for up to 15 calendar days in specific limited cases while waiting for a replacement, but you must print daily activity from the tachograph and annotate with your name, driver license number, and signature. Check Regulation (EU) No 165/2014 and employer policy for exact compliance.

Consular Services Beyond ETDs

Notarial services: certification of signatures, copies, or statements for immigration or employment.
Birth, marriage, and police clearance: guidance and in some cases issuance or attestation.
Welfare and emergency assistance: lists of lawyers, translators, and local service providers.
Communication: your embassy can contact family or authorities on your behalf if necessary.

Preparation Checklist Before You Travel

Scan and store: passport, visas, residence permits, licenses, CPC and ADR certificates, tachograph card, employment contract, and key contacts. Keep digital copies in secure cloud storage and a USB backup.
Photocopy set: keep one copy in your cab and one at home base.
Emergency contacts: embassy phone numbers, employer emergency line, insurance assistance, and 112 for emergencies.
Two passport photos: carry spare photos in your travel wallet.

Certification and License Recognition

Driving in Romania under EU rules means aligning your credentials with Romanian and EU standards.

Exchanging or Recognizing Your Driving License

EU/EEA licenses: generally recognized in Romania. After establishing residency, you may be required to exchange your EU license for a Romanian one through DRPCIV without retaking tests.
Non-EU licenses: exchange depends on bilateral agreements. If your home country has reciprocity, you can exchange without re-testing. Otherwise, you may need to take theory and practical exams.
Documents typically required: valid passport and residence permit, original license, certified translation, medical certificate from an authorized clinic, proof of residence, and application fees.

CPC - Certificate of Professional Competence

Mandatory under EU law for professional drivers of goods (C/CE) and passengers (D).
Two stages:
- Initial qualification: can be standard or accelerated depending on your experience and national rules.
- Periodic training: 35 hours every 5 years.
In Romania: CPC (Certificat de Competenta Profesionala) training and periodic courses are delivered by authorized centers overseen by ARR. Your employer may sponsor these.

ADR - Transport of Dangerous Goods

ADR certification is essential if you carry hazardous materials. Modules include basic, tank, and specific hazard classes.
Validity: typically 5 years, with refresher courses required for renewal.
Romanian training providers offer ADR courses in major cities. Carry your ADR certificate at all times when hauling hazardous goods.

Digital Tachograph and Driver Card

Card issuance: in Romania, the driver card is issued by ARR.
How to apply:
- Documents: ID or residence permit, driving license copy, recent photo, application form, and fee.
- Processing time: usually within 2-3 weeks.
Use and compliance:
- Adhere to EU Regulation 561/2006 and 165/2014: record driving, other work, availability, and rest accurately.
- If your card malfunctions or is lost, follow the printout and annotation rules until a replacement arrives.

Romanian Road Transport Laws

Alignment: Romania's rules align with EU legislation but enforced locally by traffic police, ARR, and labor inspectors.
Essentials to remember:
- Breaks: minimum 45-minute break after 4.5 hours of driving, which can be split into 15 + 30 minutes.
- Daily driving: maximum 9 hours, extended to 10 hours twice a week.
- Weekly driving: maximum 56 hours and 90 hours over any two consecutive weeks.
- Daily rest: 11 hours (can be reduced to 9 hours up to three times between weekly rests).
- Weekly rest: 45 hours regular (reduced rests allowed with compensation), subject to conditions.
- Working time directive: average 48 hours per week over a reference period, maximum 60 hours in a given week including other work.

Salary and Benefits

Compensation varies by route type, cargo, experience, and employer policy. Romania's salaries often combine a base wage with daily allowances for international trips.

Currency context: 1 EUR is approximately 5 RON. Always check current rates.

International Truck Drivers (C/CE)

Base salary: 3,500 - 6,500 RON net per month is common.
Daily allowances (diurna) for international routes: approximately 30 - 80 EUR per day depending on destination and company policy.
Typical monthly take-home: 1,500 - 2,500 EUR equivalent when combining base and allowances for active international rotations. Exceptional roles can exceed this, while beginners may start lower.
Bonuses: safe driving bonuses, fuel efficiency, on-time performance, ADR premium, weekend or night shifts.

Domestic Truck and Regional Distribution Drivers

Net monthly salary: 3,500 - 6,500 RON depending on city, employer, and experience.
Overtime and route bonuses may apply.
Advantage: more frequent home time and predictable schedules.

Bus and Coach Drivers (D)

City bus operators:
- Bucharest (STB): net around 4,000 - 5,500 RON plus benefits, overtime, and allowances.
- Cluj-Napoca (CTP): similar ranges with local variations.
- Timisoara (STPT) and Iasi (CTP): slightly lower base with potential bonuses.
Intercity coaches and private charters: pay scales depend on route length and night trips; international coach routes can increase total earnings.

Courier and Last-Mile Drivers

Van drivers (B category): 3,000 - 5,000 RON net with performance-based bonuses.
Company-provided vehicle and fuel card are common.

Benefits to Look For

Accommodation or living allowance when on rotation.
Meal allowances and per diems.
Health insurance top-ups or private clinic subscriptions.
Training sponsorship: CPC periodic, ADR courses, digital tachograph updates.
Modern fleet with safety features, which reduces fatigue and improves comfort.

Note: Allowances can have specific tax treatments. Ask employers about net vs gross, how diurna is paid, and any caps or documentation requirements.

Cost of Living in Romanian Cities

Your cost of living will depend heavily on city and lifestyle. Below are typical monthly ranges.

Housing (monthly rent)

Bucharest: 350 - 600 EUR for a 1-bedroom outside the center; 500 - 800 EUR in central areas.
Cluj-Napoca: 400 - 700 EUR depending on neighborhood and apartment condition.
Timisoara: 350 - 600 EUR.
Iasi: 300 - 500 EUR.

Utilities and Internet

Utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage): 80 - 150 EUR per month for a 1-bedroom, seasonal peaks in winter.
High-speed internet and mobile: 10 - 25 EUR per month; Romania has excellent broadband coverage.

Food and Essentials

Groceries for one person: 150 - 250 EUR per month.
Eating out: local lunch 6 - 10 EUR; mid-range dinner 10 - 20 EUR.

Transportation

Fuel: generally 1.4 - 1.7 EUR per liter, subject to global oil prices.
Public transport monthly pass: roughly 10 - 20 EUR depending on the city.
Intercity trains and buses: affordable for occasional personal travel.

Other Costs

Mobile phone plans: 5 - 15 EUR for generous data packages.
Fitness and leisure: 20 - 40 EUR for gym memberships; museums and attractions are modestly priced.

Overall, many drivers find they can save significantly compared to Western Europe while maintaining a comfortable lifestyle in Romania.

Cultural Integration

Language Basics

Romanian is a Romance language with many similarities to Italian and Spanish. English is widely spoken in logistics offices and among younger people, but basic Romanian improves daily interactions.

Greetings: Buna ziua (good day), Buna dimineata (good morning), Buna seara (good evening).
Politeness: Va rog (please), Multumesc (thank you), Cu placere (you are welcome).
Practical: Unde este...? (Where is...?), Cat costa? (How much does it cost?), Am nevoie de ajutor (I need help).

Workplace Culture

Punctuality: On-time arrivals are expected for dispatch windows and delivery slots.
Communication: Clear, factual, and solution-oriented. Romanian colleagues are friendly but appreciate professionalism.
Hierarchy: Respect for supervisors and procedures is important, especially regarding safety and compliance.
Paperwork and proof: Keep logs, receipts, and documents organized. A tidy paper trail prevents disputes and speeds up reimbursements.

Everyday Tips

Cards vs cash: Card payments are widely accepted, but carry some cash for small towns and certain tolls.
Health care: Public coverage is available with employment and residency, but many expats use private clinics like Regina Maria or MedLife for speed and convenience.
Driving etiquette: Defensive driving is wise; watch for varied speeds between rural and highway sections.

Practical Steps to Relocate

Use this step-by-step checklist to manage your move smoothly.

1. Research and Shortlist Employers

Identify target roles: international CE driver, domestic distribution C, bus driver D, courier B.
Shortlist reputable companies: check websites of DB Schenker Romania, DSV Romania, DHL, Kuehne+Nagel, FM Logistic, Fan Courier, Sameday, and municipal operators like STB or CTP.
Gather documentation requirements for each.

2. Prepare Documents in Advance

Passport: valid for at least 12 months beyond your planned start date.
Driving licenses: C, CE, and/or D with clean record; include international driving permit if applicable.
CPC and ADR: originals plus certified translations.
Employment history: reference letters and route experience.
Criminal record certificate: apostilled/legalized as required.
Medical certificates: as requested by employer.
Scans and backups: store in cloud and on a USB.

3. Work Authorization and Visa

Coordinate with your employer for work authorization at IGI.
Apply for the long-stay D/AM visa at the Romanian consulate.
Prepare for interview or additional questions if requested.

4. Accommodation and Arrival Plan

Book temporary housing for the first month in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, or Iasi.
Plan local transport from the airport and to your employer's base.

5. Post-Arrival Legalities

Apply for residence permit at IGI within the specified period.
Register your address as required by local regulations.
Apply for a Romanian personal numeric code (CNP) if it is not automatically assigned with your residence permit, as it is often needed for tax and services.

6. Licensing and Cards

Exchange or validate your driving license at DRPCIV if necessary.
Apply for your digital tachograph card from ARR.
Enroll in any required CPC periodic training and ADR courses.

7. Banking and Finances

Open a local bank account. Some banks require a CNP and residence permit; ask your employer for supported partners.
Understand payroll breakdown: base salary, diurna, and bonuses.

8. Insurance and Health

Enroll in public health coverage through your employer contributions.
Consider private health insurance for faster access.
Review accident and life insurance options, especially for long-haul assignments.

9. Driving Compliance and Tools

Rovinieta (road vignette) and tolls: ensure your company manages national road access. Trucks pay different rates and certain bridge tolls (for example, Fetesti-Cernavoda on A2) require separate payment.
Winter gear: winter tires are mandatory when roads are covered with snow or ice. Chains may be required on certain routes. Carry reflective vest, warning triangles, fire extinguisher, and first aid kit as required by law.
Navigation and apps: Waze and Google Maps are widely used. Check CNAIR or official channels for road closures and weather alerts.

10. Emergency Readiness

Save embassy contacts and 112 on your phone.
Keep two passport photos in your glove compartment.
Maintain a secure document pouch in your cab.
Ensure your employer's emergency procedures are clear and accessible.

Common Challenges and How to Handle Them

Driving on the Right Side

If you come from a left-hand traffic country, practice in low-traffic areas. Pay extra attention at roundabouts and when turning onto multi-lane roads.

Winter Conditions

Plan routes proactively in mountainous areas like the Carpathians.
Check weather advisories during cold months.
Maintain more distance, use engine braking on descents, and avoid sudden steering.

Tolls and Road Fees

Rovinieta: mandatory for national roads; vehicles over 3.5 tons pay different categories. Ensure it is valid for the correct vehicle category and period.
Bridge tolls: certain bridges require separate payment. Keep receipts.
Company policy: clarify whether dispatch handles tolls or if you pay and claim reimbursements.

EU Working Time and Tachograph Rules

Know the limits and stick to them. Never falsify records.
Plan rests near safe, well-lit parking areas. Romania is improving secure parking, especially along major corridors.

Language and Paperwork

Use translation apps for quick conversations.
Keep documents in labeled sleeves. Organize digital copies by category.

Success Tips from Other Expats

Start with a reputable employer that offers structured onboarding and training in Romanian regulations.
Invest in your qualifications early: ADR and CPC periodic training make you more employable and raise earning potential.
Learn basic Romanian phrases for roadside checks and loading docks.
Build a personal network: other drivers, dispatchers, and mechanics can help you adapt faster.
Keep impeccable records: fuel receipts, tolls, load documentation, and tachograph printouts.
Save consistently: Romania's lower cost of living makes it easier to build an emergency fund.
Stay compliant and respectful at controls: roadside police and inspectors appreciate professionalism and preparation.

Conclusion: Your Roadmap and Safety Net

Romania offers a strong platform for drivers from Global to build EU experience, earn competitive take-home pay, and enjoy a balanced lifestyle with lower living costs. Success depends on two pillars: compliance and readiness. Compliance keeps you legal and employable through the right visa, licensing, CPC, ADR, and tachograph discipline. Readiness protects you in emergencies through a clear plan for lost passports, consular assistance, ETDs, and document backups.

Take your next step today: shortlist employers, prepare your documents, plan your visa timeline, and set up your emergency travel document checklist. With the right preparation, you can drive into Romania's opportunities with confidence and peace of mind.

FAQ

1) What should I do first if I lose my passport in Romania?

Go to a safe place and secure your other IDs.
File a police report and keep the reference number.
Contact your embassy or consulate in Bucharest or your accredited mission.
Notify your employer and request a support letter if needed.
Gather photos, identity proof, and travel plans for an ETD or emergency passport.

2) How long does it take to get an emergency travel document?

Many embassies can issue an ETD within 1-3 working days, and sometimes same day in urgent cases. Timing depends on identity verification, your supporting documents, and appointment availability.

3) Can I continue my trucking route with an ETD?

It depends on the route and transit countries. ETDs are typically valid for a single journey, often to return home or reach a specific destination. Confirm with your employer, airline (if flying), and the authorities of transit countries that they accept your ETD.

4) I am a non-EU citizen. What visa do I need to work as a driver in Romania?

Most non-EU drivers need an employer-sponsored work authorization followed by a long-stay work visa (D/AM), then a residence permit upon arrival. Your employer initiates the process with IGI.

5) Will Romania recognize my driving license?

EU/EEA licenses are generally recognized and can be exchanged after residency is established.
Non-EU licenses may be exchanged if reciprocity agreements exist; otherwise, you may need to take theory and practical tests in Romania. DRPCIV manages exchanges and exams.

6) Do I need CPC and ADR in Romania?

Yes. CPC is mandatory for professional goods and passenger drivers in the EU. ADR is required for transporting hazardous materials. Romanian training centers offer both, and many employers sponsor courses.

7) What are realistic salaries for drivers in Romania?

International CE drivers: often 1,500 - 2,500 EUR equivalent per active month, combining base salary and diurna, depending on routes and experience.
Domestic drivers: usually 3,500 - 6,500 RON net per month, with variations by city and employer.
Bus drivers: roughly 4,000 - 5,500 RON net in large cities, plus overtime and benefits.

8) How expensive is life in Bucharest or Cluj-Napoca compared to Western Europe?

Housing and daily costs are lower. A 1-bedroom apartment in central Bucharest often costs 500 - 800 EUR, compared to significantly higher rents in Western capitals. Groceries, transport, and services are also more affordable.

9) What emergency numbers and services should I know in Romania?

112 is the national emergency number for police, ambulance, and fire services.
Keep your embassy's emergency line, your employer's 24/7 dispatch number, and insurance assistance contacts saved in your phone.

10) What documents should I always carry on the road?

Passport or residence permit (carry at least a copy if the original is at your embassy).
Driving license and CPC card.
ADR certificate if applicable.
Tachograph card.
Vehicle documents, insurance, and proof of rovinieta.
Employer letter and contact details.

11) How do land border checks affect my travel with an ETD?

Romania aligned air and sea Schengen checks in 2024, but land border controls still apply. Always verify acceptance of your ETD at each land border, and carry your police report and supporting documents.

12) Can my family join me in Romania?

Yes, after you hold a valid residence permit, your spouse and dependent children may be eligible for family reunification. They will need visas and residence permits, with documentation similar to yours.

13) Are winter tires mandatory in Romania?

Winter tires are mandatory when roads are covered with snow or ice. For heavy vehicles, chains may be required on certain routes. Always check seasonal requirements and carry the legally required safety kit.

14) What should I do if my tachograph card is lost or damaged?

Report to the issuing authority (ARR) immediately. You may drive without the card for up to 15 days in limited situations while awaiting replacement, but you must print and annotate daily records according to EU rules and employer policy.