EU Work Permits for Drivers: Complete Guide 2025

    Back to International Driving Careers
    International Driving CareersBy ELEC

    Everything you need to know about obtaining EU work permits as a professional driver, including requirements, timelines, and application processes.

    Share:

    EU Work Permits for Drivers: Complete Guide 2025

    Introduction

    If you are a professional driver in Global considering a move to Romania, you are looking at one of the most promising logistics markets in the European Union. Romania is growing fast as a transport and logistics hub that connects Central Europe with the Balkans, the Black Sea, and the Caucasus. For truck, bus, and delivery drivers, Romania offers a powerful combination: EU-level safety and compliance standards, access to international routes, competitive earnings for international operations, and a lower cost of living compared to many Western EU countries.

    This complete 2025 guide explains how EU work permits for drivers work when your destination is Romania. You will learn about Romanian work visa pathways, what paperwork to prepare, how driver certifications are recognized, and how to secure Code 95, ADR, and a digital tachograph card. We will also cover salaries in EUR and RON, cost-of-living expectations in cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi, and practical steps to move, settle, and start your route with confidence.

    Whether you want long-haul routes across the EU, regional delivery inside Romania, or passenger transport roles, this article gives you a proven roadmap from job search to wheels on the road.

    Why Romania?

    Romania has become a strategic link in European supply chains. As an EU Member State, it follows EU road transport rules while offering attractive living costs and access to growing logistics infrastructure.

    Key reasons to choose Romania:

    • EU membership and standards: Romania applies EU road safety, working time, and tachograph rules. You gain exposure to EU logistics operations and the ability to drive cross-border for Romanian companies.
    • Growing transport sector: Industrial zones around Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, Iasi, and ports in Constanta support strong demand for professional drivers.
    • Competitive earnings in international trucking: Many companies pay a base salary in RON plus daily allowances in EUR for international trips, bringing total net monthly earnings to EU levels while you spend part of your time in a lower-cost home base.
    • Lower cost of living: Rents, groceries, and services in Romania are generally lower than in Western Europe, helping you save more.
    • Quality of life: Romania offers urban amenities, diverse landscapes, modern highways expanding each year, and a hospitable culture.
    • Strategic location: Quick access to Central Europe via A1 motorway corridor, and to Black Sea shipping through Constanta.

    Driver demand remains high. Employers actively recruit non-EU drivers due to local shortages, especially in long-haul trucking and last-mile delivery.

    Job Market Overview

    Romania's transport and logistics sector covers international road freight, domestic distribution, passenger transport, and e-commerce delivery. Here is where the opportunities are strongest in 2025:

    1) International long-haul truck driving (C and CE)

    • Routes: Romania to Germany, Italy, France, Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, Czech Republic, and the Balkans.
    • Freight: General cargo, automotive parts, FMCG, refrigerated goods, containers from Constanta.
    • Schedules: 3-6 weeks on the road followed by 1-2 weeks rest are common in long-haul. Some companies offer 2-3 weeks on, 1 week off.
    • Employers: DB Schenker Romania, DHL Romania, Kuehne+Nagel Romania, FM Logistic Romania, H.Essers Romania, DSV Romania, and many Romanian trucking firms supplying European shippers.

    2) Domestic and regional distribution (C, CE, C1)

    • Routes: City-to-city distribution within Romania, or regional circuits from hubs like Bucharest-Ilfov, Cluj county, Timis county, Brasov, and Prahova.
    • Freight: Food and beverages, retail goods, appliances, building materials, and palletized LTL.
    • Schedules: Home daily or every 2-3 days, with fixed shifts in many cases.

    3) ADR and specialized transport (C, CE + ADR)

    • Freight: Fuel, chemicals, gases, waste, and other dangerous goods.
    • Requirements: ADR certificate, strict safety compliance, periodic training.
    • Pay: Usually higher due to specialization and risk.

    4) Van and last-mile delivery (B)

    • Growth area: E-commerce continues to grow in Romania.
    • Employers: FAN Courier, Cargus, Sameday, and smaller third-party delivery companies.
    • Schedules: Daytime or split shifts. Familiarity with city logistics and handheld scanners is useful.

    5) Passenger transport (D)

    • City bus networks: Bucharest (STB), Cluj-Napoca (CTP Cluj-Napoca), Timisoara (STPT), Iasi (CTP Iasi).
    • Intercity and international coaches: Private operators and EU routes via partnerships.
    • Requirements: Category D license, CPC Code 95 for passenger transport, language basics for customer interactions.

    Where the jobs are

    • Bucharest-Ilfov: Headquarters for many logistics and courier firms; biggest demand across all driver categories.
    • Cluj-Napoca: Tech and manufacturing hub with strong LTL and retail distribution.
    • Timisoara: Automotive and industrial base with cross-border links to Hungary and Serbia.
    • Iasi: Growing logistics to Moldova and northeastern regions.
    • Constanta: Port-related trucking, container drayage, and fuel distribution.

    Legal Requirements: Work Permits and Visas for Global Citizens

    If you are a non-EU, non-EEA, non-Swiss citizen relocating to Romania for driving jobs, you need a Romanian work permit and a long-stay visa for employment, followed by a residence permit that authorizes work. Below is the typical process and key requirements.

    1) Employer-sponsored work permit (Aviz de munca)

    • Who applies: Your Romanian employer applies to the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI), the Romanian immigration authority.
    • Quotas: Romania sets annual quotas for non-EU workers. Truck drivers are commonly hired, but availability depends on the yearly government decision. Start early.
    • Labor market test: Employers often must show they could not find a suitable EU candidate. Some roles on shortage lists may have simplified steps.
    • Documents typically required from you for the employer's application:
      • Valid passport (with sufficient validity for the entire process)
      • Recent photos (passport-size)
      • Proof of qualifications: driving license categories, CPC certificates, ADR if any
      • Criminal record certificate from your home country
      • Medical certificate stating you are fit for work
      • Employment offer or draft contract
      • Any translations and legalizations as requested by IGI
    • Processing time: Commonly 30 days, extendable if files are incomplete. Employers handle most of this step.

    2) Long-stay employment visa (Type D/AM)

    • After the work permit is issued, you apply at a Romanian consulate for a long-stay visa for employment (D/AM).
    • Documents normally include:
      • Work permit from IGI
      • Valid passport
      • Proof of accommodation booking or address in Romania
      • Proof of means or employment contract draft
      • Criminal record certificate
      • Medical insurance covering the visa period
      • Visa application forms and fees
    • Processing time: Typically 10-60 days depending on consulate workload. Apply as soon as you receive the work permit.
    • Visa validity: Usually up to 90 days to enter Romania and finalize your residence permit.

    3) Residence permit and single permit to work

    • On arrival, you register with IGI to obtain a residence permit authorizing work. Many drivers receive a combined residence and work authorization linked to the employer and job role.
    • When to apply: Before the long-stay visa expires. Your employer often supports this step.
    • Documents often required:
      • Employment contract
      • Proof of accommodation in Romania
      • Proof of means and tax registration, if needed
      • Medical certificate, local health insurance once employed
      • Passport and visa
      • Biometric data and fees
    • Validity: Usually 1 year for standard contracts, renewable while employment continues.

    4) Your right to work in the EU

    • With a Romanian residence permit authorizing work, you are permitted to work for your Romanian employer in Romania and, where the job requires, to drive internationally as part of your Romanian contract.
    • You cannot independently take employment in other EU countries without their separate authorization. The Romanian permit does not grant an automatic right to work for a foreign employer in another EU state.

    5) Family reunification

    • After you hold a valid residence permit and meet income and accommodation requirements, you can apply to bring eligible family members under family reunification rules. Processing times vary. Plan for document translations and legalizations.

    6) Compliance checks and enforcement

    • Romania enforces road transport rules through the State Inspectorate for Road Transport Control (ISCTR) and the Police. Keep work permits, residence cards, and driver certification available. Non-compliance can result in fines or loss of authorization.

    Certification and License Recognition

    Professional driving in Romania requires that your license and certifications be recognized or converted, and that you hold EU-mandated professional competence. Key topics include driving license recognition, CPC Code 95, ADR, and tachograph cards.

    Recognizing or exchanging your driving license

    • EU/EEA/Swiss license holders:

      • Your license is generally recognized in Romania. If you plan long-term residence, you may choose to exchange your license for a Romanian one. If your current license already carries Code 95 (driver CPC), that code is recognized across the EU.
    • Non-EU license holders:

      • Romania may exchange non-EU licenses if there is a bilateral agreement recognizing your issuing country's licenses. If your country is not on the exchange list, you will need to pass medical, theory, and practical tests in Romania to obtain a Romanian license for each category (B, C, CE, D as relevant).
      • Confirm exchange eligibility before you travel. If you must test in Romania, schedule training early and plan for translation of your driver record.
    • Medical and psychological fitness:

      • Professional categories require periodic medical and psychological checks at approved clinics. Your employer or training center can help schedule these.

    CPC - Certificate of Professional Competence (Code 95)

    EU rules under Directive 2003/59/EC require professional drivers of trucks and buses to hold CPC. It appears as Code 95 on your license or driver qualification card.

    • Initial qualification:

      • If you are a new professional driver, you must complete initial training: typically 140 or 280 hours depending on your pathway. Romania recognizes EU-aligned initial CPC through approved training centers.
    • Periodic training:

      • Every 5 years, drivers complete 35 hours of periodic training. If you already completed periodic CPC in another EU country, it is generally recognized when you transfer your driver record to Romania.
    • Getting Code 95 in Romania:

      • Contact an approved training center under Autoritatea Rutiera Romana (A.R.R.).
      • Provide your driving license, ID, medical and psychological certificates, and photographs.
      • Complete initial or periodic training and pass required exams.
      • Code 95 is then added to your license or issued as a qualification card.

    ADR - Transport of dangerous goods

    • ADR certificate is required for transporting hazardous materials by road in the EU.
    • Romania follows the ADR agreement. Training and exams are delivered by authorized centers. You can obtain base ADR and add-ons (tanks, classes) as required by your employer.
    • Validity is usually 5 years, with refresher courses for renewal.

    Digital tachograph driver card

    • Authority: In Romania, tachograph driver cards are issued by the competent authority linked to A.R.R.
    • Who needs it: Any driver operating a vehicle that falls under EU tachograph rules.
    • How to apply:
      • Submit application with ID, valid residence in Romania, driving license, photograph, and fee. Employers often coordinate this.
      • Processing time: Commonly 7-15 working days once documents are complete.
    • Usage: Always use your personal card when driving and keep printouts or digital records as required during inspections.

    EU driving and working time rules at a glance

    • Driving time limits (Regulation 561/2006):
      • Daily driving: 9 hours, extendable to 10 hours twice per week.
      • Weekly driving: Maximum 56 hours.
      • Fortnightly driving: Maximum 90 hours over two consecutive weeks.
      • Breaks: 45 minutes after 4.5 hours of driving (can be split into 15 + 30 minutes).
    • Working time (Directive 2002/15/EC):
      • Average 48 hours per week over the reference period, up to 60 hours in a single week if the average is maintained.
    • Rest periods and weekly rest: Standard weekly rest of 45 hours, with possible reduced rest of at least 24 hours with compensation.
    • Tachograph compliance: Vehicles must have calibrated tachographs, and drivers must keep their cards and records available for roadside checks.

    Romanian road transport specifics

    • Driving side: Right-hand traffic.
    • Tolls and vignettes:
      • Light vehicles and heavy trucks must have an electronic vignette (rovinieta) for national roads and motorways. Heavy vehicles have categories based on weight and axles.
      • Separate tolls apply to certain bridges and sections, such as the A2 bridge at Fetesti (payment methods include online, SMS, or at partner points).
    • Winter driving:
      • Snow tires are mandatory when roads are covered with snow, ice, or frost. For heavy vehicles, carrying snow chains is required on mountain routes when conditions demand.
      • Some high-altitude roads, such as Transfagarasan, are closed in winter. Always check conditions.
    • Vehicle checks: ISCTR conducts inspections focusing on weight, securing loads, tachograph records, and compliance with rest rules.

    Salary and Benefits

    Salaries vary by role, experience, route type, and employer. Below are realistic ranges for 2025, stated as approximate figures based on market trends. Actual offers will vary.

    International long-haul truck drivers (C, CE)

    • Typical compensation structure:
      • Base salary in RON: Often modest, for example 3,500 to 6,500 RON gross per month.
      • Daily allowances in EUR for international trips: Often 50 to 80 EUR per day on the road, depending on country, cargo, and company policy.
    • Monthly net earnings:
      • Common range: 1,600 to 2,500 EUR net per month, depending on days away, routes, and performance.
      • Experienced CE drivers with ADR or specialized equipment may exceed 2,500 EUR net in strong months.
    • Bonuses and extras:
      • Fuel-saving bonuses, safe driving bonuses, on-time delivery bonuses.
      • Meal allowances, accommodation covered when not in cab, parking fees reimbursed.

    Domestic and regional distribution (C, CE)

    • Net monthly pay: Approximately 4,500 to 7,500 RON net (about 900 to 1,500 EUR), depending on city, hours, and overtime.
    • Schedule: More predictable home time, sometimes lower pay than international.

    ADR specialists (C, CE + ADR)

    • Net monthly pay: Often above standard long-haul rates, for example 2,000 to 2,800 EUR net for international ADR, or a premium on domestic rates.
    • Extras: Safety bonuses, PPE provided, stricter compliance expectations.

    Van and last-mile delivery (B)

    • Net monthly pay: Roughly 3,500 to 5,500 RON net (around 700 to 1,100 EUR), with performance bonuses for deliveries.
    • Schedule: Daytime shifts, occasional evenings or weekends during peak seasons.

    Bus and coach drivers (D)

    • City bus driver net pay: Approximately 4,500 to 8,000 RON net depending on city, seniority, and overtime.
    • Intercity/international coach drivers: May receive higher pay or per diems for cross-border routes.

    Benefits and contract terms

    • Paid annual leave: Typically at least 20 working days per year, plus public holidays.
    • Sick leave and health coverage: Employees are registered with Romania's public health insurance upon employment.
    • Meal vouchers: Many employers offer meal vouchers as part of compensation.
    • Per diems and tax treatment: Part of international driver pay is often structured as per diems which may receive favorable tax treatment up to defined limits. Employers manage this according to Romanian law.

    Cost of Living in Romania

    Romania's cost of living is competitive compared to Western Europe. Actual costs vary by city, lifestyle, and family size. The ranges below are typical for a single person or a small family in 2025.

    Housing - monthly rent

    • Bucharest:
      • 1-bedroom apartment: 400 to 700 EUR (central areas higher, outer districts lower)
      • 2-bedroom apartment: 600 to 1,000 EUR
    • Cluj-Napoca:
      • 1-bedroom: 350 to 650 EUR
      • 2-bedroom: 550 to 900 EUR
    • Timisoara:
      • 1-bedroom: 300 to 550 EUR
      • 2-bedroom: 500 to 800 EUR
    • Iasi:
      • 1-bedroom: 300 to 500 EUR
      • 2-bedroom: 450 to 750 EUR

    Utilities and internet

    • Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for a 1-bedroom: 80 to 150 EUR per month depending on season.
    • Internet and mobile: 10 to 25 EUR per month for fast broadband and a mobile plan.

    Food and daily expenses

    • Groceries for one person: 150 to 250 EUR per month with normal cooking habits.
    • Eating out:
      • Affordable lunch: 6 to 10 EUR
      • Mid-range dinner for two: 25 to 45 EUR

    Transport

    • Public transport monthly pass:
      • Bucharest: Around 15 to 25 EUR equivalent depending on coverage and options.
      • Other cities: Often 10 to 20 EUR.
    • Fuel price: Varies with the market; budget for EU-level fuel costs when driving privately.

    Example monthly budgets for a single driver

    • Bucharest: 1,000 to 1,500 EUR for rent, utilities, food, transport, and incidentals.
    • Cluj-Napoca: 900 to 1,300 EUR.
    • Timisoara or Iasi: 800 to 1,200 EUR.

    These figures can be lower if you share accommodation or live in suburban areas. International drivers who spend significant time on the road may reduce living costs further while away.

    Cultural Integration

    Romania is welcoming, and many logistics teams include international colleagues. Basic Romanian helps daily life and can improve your career prospects.

    Language basics

    • Romanian is a Romance language. Knowing key phrases for greetings, directions, and workplace terms helps a lot.
    • English is common among younger people and in multinational companies. Many dispatchers speak English. For passenger transport, Romanian is more important due to customer interaction.
    • Consider a short language course during your first months.

    Workplace culture

    • Direct and respectful communication is valued. Confirm instructions, ask clarifying questions, and report issues early.
    • Punctuality is important for loading slots and delivery windows.
    • Safety and compliance: Managers expect strict adherence to tachograph rules and vehicle checks.
    • Documentation: Keep your documents organized and ready for audits and roadside inspections.

    Life outside work

    • Romania offers varied landscapes for rest weeks: the Carpathians for hiking, the Black Sea coast, and historic cities like Brasov and Sibiu.
    • Banking and payments: Card payments are widely accepted. Opening a bank account is straightforward with your residence permit and proof of address.
    • Healthcare: Public healthcare via insurance contributions. Private clinics are available for faster appointments.

    Practical Steps to Relocate

    Follow this step-by-step plan to move from Global to a driver's seat in Romania.

    Step 1: Assess your eligibility and target role

    • Identify your categories: B, C, CE, D, and any ADR certification.
    • Check if your non-EU driving license can be exchanged in Romania. If not, plan for testing.
    • Decide the job type: international long-haul, domestic distribution, van delivery, or passenger transport.

    Step 2: Prepare your documents

    • Passport valid for at least 12-18 months.
    • Driving license and official record or extract showing categories and issue dates.
    • International translations and legalizations as required (apostille, notarization).
    • Criminal record certificate from your home country, recently issued.
    • Medical certificate of fitness to work; plan to take Romanian medical and psychological exams too.
    • CV in English, highlighting driving experience, routes, vehicle types, and safety record.
    • References from previous employers, if possible.

    Step 3: Apply for jobs and interview

    • Target employers that regularly hire international drivers: large 3PLs, trucking firms, courier companies, and city bus operators.
    • Examples to research: DB Schenker Romania, DHL Romania, Kuehne+Nagel Romania, FM Logistic Romania, H.Essers Romania, DSV Romania, FAN Courier, Cargus, Sameday, and municipal operators in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, Iasi.
    • Expect video interviews covering your experience, EU rules knowledge, and availability.
    • Clarify contract terms: base salary, per diems, routes, home time, and support for permits and housing.

    Step 4: Employer applies for the Romanian work permit

    • Provide documents promptly to your employer for the IGI application.
    • Typical processing: around 30 days. Respond quickly to any requests for additional documents.

    Step 5: Apply for the long-stay employment visa (D/AM)

    • Book an appointment at the Romanian consulate.
    • Submit your work permit, passport, accommodation proof, medical insurance, criminal record, and fees.
    • Processing: allow 2-8 weeks. Track your application.

    Step 6: Travel to Romania and finalize residence

    • Enter Romania with your D/AM visa.
    • Complete residence permit formalities at IGI. Provide your employment contract, address, medical documents, and biometrics.
    • Receive your residence card authorizing work, usually valid for one year and renewable.

    Step 7: Secure driver credentials in Romania

    • License recognition or exchange: If required, start the exchange or testing process.
    • CPC Code 95: Enroll in initial or periodic training at an A.R.R.-approved center. Schedule medical and psychological exams.
    • Tachograph driver card: Apply through the issuing authority. Keep passport, residence card, and license ready.
    • ADR certification: If your role needs it, register for the base course and tank specialization.

    Step 8: Company onboarding and route assignment

    • Company induction: Safety briefings, EU working time training, vehicle familiarization.
    • Documents issued: Fuel cards, company ID, uniforms or PPE, load securing equipment.
    • Shadow week: Some companies pair you with a mentor driver for first routes.

    Step 9: Establish your life in Romania

    • Housing: Secure a rental close to your base depot or with easy access to the ring road or motorway.
    • Banking: Open a bank account with your residence permit and address contract.
    • Phone and internet: Choose a reliable mobile plan with data for navigation and company apps.
    • Healthcare: Register with family doctor and understand sick leave procedures.

    Step 10: Plan your first year

    • Calendar: Track CPC periodic training and ADR renewals.
    • Taxes and pay: Learn your payslips, per diem rules, and overtime policies.
    • Career steps: Consider tanker, temperature-controlled, or high-value cargo certifications to increase earnings.

    Suggested timeline

    • Month 0: Document preparation and job search
    • Month 1: Offer accepted; employer submits work permit
    • Month 2: Work permit issued; apply for D/AM visa
    • Month 3: Visa granted; travel to Romania; apply for residence card
    • Month 4: Start CPC training, tachograph card application; begin onboarding
    • Month 5: Fully operational on assigned routes

    Note: Timelines vary. Start earlier if your home country background checks take longer.

    Success Tips from Other Expat Drivers

    • Choose the right employer: Ask to speak with current international drivers. Confirm realistic route plans and home time.
    • Read the contract: Understand base pay, per diem, overtime, and what counts as paid working time.
    • Keep immaculate records: Maintain tachograph compliance and keep copies of training, inspections, and maintenance logs.
    • Invest in language basics: Learn route-related Romanian vocabulary for depots, warehouses, and customs points.
    • Prepare for winter: Bring proper clothing, gloves, boots, and chains if your routes cross mountain areas.
    • Respect rest: Do not let dispatch pressure you to ignore rules. Romanian authorities enforce EU hours.
    • Save early: With lower living costs, you can build a savings cushion in the first year.
    • Network: Join driver groups in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi for tips on roads, parking, and services.

    Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

    • Driving on the right side: If you are used to left-side driving, practice in low-traffic areas or join a familiarization session before heavy routes.
    • Winter road conditions: Check forecasts daily, carry chains, and allow extra time in the Carpathians.
    • Toll systems and rovinieta: Know how to purchase or verify the electronic vignette. Companies usually handle this, but you should confirm validity to avoid fines.
    • EU working time directives: Learn how breaks, rests, and split breaks work. Use tachograph correctly to avoid penalties.
    • Administrative steps: Translations, legalizations, and appointments can take time. Keep a checklist and set reminders.
    • Cultural differences: Direct communication and punctuality are appreciated. Ask questions if instructions are unclear.

    Conclusion and Call to Action

    Romania is an excellent entry point to EU professional driving. With rising demand for drivers, competitive earnings in international routes, and a cost of living that helps you save, it is a strategic move for Global drivers seeking long-term stability and growth. The key is preparation: line up your employer, complete the work permit and D/AM visa steps, secure your CPC Code 95 and tachograph card, and settle into a city that fits your lifestyle and route network.

    Start now: update your CV, assemble your documents, reach out to Romanian logistics employers, and schedule your visa appointment as soon as your work permit is approved. With a solid plan, you can be in the driver's seat in Romania within a few months.

    FAQ: EU Work Permits for Drivers in Romania

    1) Can I start driving in Romania with my non-EU license immediately?

    It depends. If Romania has a bilateral agreement with your country, you may exchange your license without retesting. If not, you will need to pass medical, theory, and practical exams in Romania for the required categories. Check exchange eligibility before you arrive and plan your testing timeline accordingly. For professional driving, you also need CPC Code 95 and a tachograph card.

    2) How long does it take to get a Romanian work permit and visa?

    Typical sequence is around 3 to 4 months:

    • Employer's work permit application: about 30 days, possibly longer if documents are missing.
    • D/AM employment visa at the consulate: 2 to 8 weeks depending on location and workload.
    • Residence permit in Romania: issued after arrival and submission of biometrics and documents. Plan for additional weeks to receive the card.

    3) Do I need CPC Code 95 if I already have experience?

    Yes. Experience alone is not enough for professional driving in the EU. You must hold CPC Code 95 either through initial qualification or periodic training. If you already have EU-recognized CPC, it can be transferred or recognized when you switch to a Romanian license or driver record.

    4) How do I get a digital tachograph card in Romania?

    Apply through the issuing authority associated with A.R.R. Provide your ID, Romanian residence, driving license, photo, and pay the fee. Processing typically takes 7 to 15 working days. Always use your personal card and keep it, along with printouts, available during inspections.

    5) What salary can I expect as an international CE driver based in Romania?

    Base salaries are commonly in RON with daily EUR allowances while on the road. Many CE long-haul drivers net between 1,600 and 2,500 EUR per month depending on days away, routes, and specialization like ADR. Confirm base pay, per diem rates, and bonus rules in your contract.

    6) Is ADR certification mandatory for all truck driving jobs?

    No. ADR is only required for dangerous goods. However, ADR-qualified drivers often earn more and access higher-paying contracts, especially in fuel or chemical transport. If you plan a long-term career, ADR is a valuable investment.

    7) Can my family join me in Romania?

    Yes, after you have a valid residence permit and meet income and accommodation requirements, you can apply for family reunification. Plan for document translations, health insurance, and school enrollment if you have children. Processing times vary by consulate and season.

    8) Will I be able to work in other EU countries with a Romanian residence permit?

    Your Romanian residence permit authorizes work for your Romanian employer. It does not allow you to take separate employment in other EU states. You can drive cross-border as part of your Romanian contract, but changing employers to another EU country requires that country's own authorization.

    9) What is the cost of living like for a new driver in Bucharest or Cluj-Napoca?

    Expect 900 to 1,500 EUR per month for rent, utilities, food, transport, and incidentals depending on city and lifestyle. Sharing accommodation or living slightly outside the center can reduce costs. Many international drivers save more than in Western Europe due to lower housing expenses.

    10) How strict are EU hours and rest rules in Romania?

    Romania enforces EU rules on driving time, rest, and tachographs. ISCTR conducts roadside inspections and depot checks. Keep your tachograph card in good order, respect breaks, and report scheduling conflicts to dispatch. Non-compliance can lead to heavy fines and loss of employment.


    By following the steps and guidance in this 2025 guide, you can navigate Romania's work permits, secure the right certifications, and start a rewarding international driving career with an EU base. Prepare your documents, choose a reliable employer, and set your route for Romania.

    Ready to Apply?

    Start your career as a professional driver with ELEC. We offer competitive benefits and support throughout your journey.