Top 10 Countries Hiring International Drivers in 2025

Introduction: Relocating From Global to Romania for a Stronger Driving Career

If you are a professional driver in Global exploring a move to the European Union, Romania should be on your radar as a strategic destination. The country is experiencing sustained growth in transportation and logistics, fuelled by e-commerce expansion, new motorway segments, and its pivotal position at the crossroads between Central and Eastern Europe. Romania offers a compelling mix: EU-standard regulations and safety, competitive salaries compared to the local cost of living, and access to international routes that can take you through Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, and beyond.

This guide gives you an all-in-one roadmap. First, we highlight the top 10 countries hiring international drivers in 2025 so you can see the global landscape. Then we deep-dive into why Romania stands out, how to get your paperwork sorted, what salaries to expect, how to convert your license and certifications (C, CE, D, ADR), and how to settle into life and work on the ground. You will get step-by-step actions, realistic salary ranges in EUR and RON, and a full breakdown of EU driving rules, Romania-specific laws, and practical tips from expats who have made the move.

Whether you aim for international trucking routes, logistics hub positions, city bus driving, or last-mile delivery services, Romania provides a reachable gateway to EU work-life standards with a budget-friendly base. Let us start with the broader hiring landscape in 2025 and then show you how to turn Romania into your new home base.

The Top 10 Countries Hiring International Drivers in 2025

In 2025, demand for qualified drivers remains high across Europe and select global hubs. This quick overview will help you compare options, but remember: the rest of this article focuses on Romania as your destination.

Romania

Why it is hot: Strong growth in logistics, lower cost of living, EU-level regulations, and active hiring for C, CE, and D drivers.
Typical roles: International HGV (CE), domestic distribution (C), city bus and intercity coach (D), ADR tanker and goods, last-mile e-commerce delivery.
Snapshot pay: Domestic C drivers often net 4,500-7,500 RON (900-1,500 EUR). International CE drivers commonly net 10,000-17,500 RON (2,000-3,500 EUR) including per diems, route-dependent.

Poland

Why: Major EU trucking corridor with many fleet bases and strong exports.
Roles: CE international long-haul, cross-border EU routes.
Pay: Net 1,800-3,000 EUR equivalent for international routes with allowances.

Germany

Why: High freight volumes, strong worker protections, stable contracts.
Roles: Regional and international HGV, ADR tanker, bus driving.
Pay: Higher gross salaries; cost of living also higher. Net 2,300-3,800 EUR for experienced international HGV drivers varies by region and allowances.

Netherlands

Why: Dense logistics hubs, ports, and organized schedules.
Roles: Container transport, refrigerated goods, ADR.
Pay: Net 2,500-3,800 EUR typical for seasoned CE drivers with allowances.

Spain

Why: Strong domestic and cross-border freight, warm climate, growing e-commerce.
Roles: CE long-haul, city delivery.
Pay: Net 1,600-2,800 EUR depending on routes and seniority.

France

Why: Significant interregional freight and international corridors.
Roles: CE, ADR, refrigerated, regional, and long-haul.
Pay: Net 2,100-3,400 EUR typical; strict compliance culture.

Italy

Why: Manufacturing and retail distribution plus international corridors via Alpine passes and ports.
Roles: CE, ADR, coach driving.
Pay: Net 1,900-3,200 EUR; regional variations significant.

Czech Republic

Why: Central location, competitive hiring, multinational carriers.
Roles: International CE, warehousing-and-driving hybrid roles.
Pay: Net 1,600-2,700 EUR common with per diems.

Hungary

Why: Strategic Central European placement, growing manufacturing and logistics.
Roles: CE international, automotive sector logistics.
Pay: Net 1,700-2,800 EUR with daily allowances.

Lithuania

Why: Major cross-border fleets operating throughout the EU, frequent international routes.
Roles: CE long-haul across Scandinavia, Western Europe, and Southern Europe.
Pay: Net 1,800-3,000 EUR with per diems; frequent rotations.

While all these markets are hiring, Romania offers an especially attractive balance between income potential and cost of living, plus the chance to base yourself in an EU member state with access to routes across the continent. Now, let us focus on what makes Romania stand out for drivers relocating from Global.

Why Romania?

EU Membership and Market Access

Romania has been an EU member since 2007, which means EU-wide standards for safety, driver hours, and vehicle compliance. When you work for a Romanian employer, you can access international routes across the EU and the broader European market. Many Romanian carriers operate pan-European networks, offering rotations through Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Austria, Spain, and more.

Lower Cost of Living With Competitive Pay

Romania offers a cost of living significantly lower than many Western EU states while still providing EU-regulated work conditions. This combination can make your net income go further, especially if you base yourself in cities like Timisoara, Iasi, or Cluj-Napoca rather than the capital. Many international CE drivers report solid take-home pay once per diems and allowances are factored in.

Growing Demand for Drivers

The expansion of e-commerce, new highway connections, the Port of Constanta's strategic role, and increasing cross-border trade all boost demand for drivers. Employers are looking for:

CE drivers for international long-haul
C drivers for regional distribution
D drivers for city and intercity buses
ADR-certified drivers for hazardous goods
Delivery drivers for last-mile and express parcels

Quality of Life

Romania combines modern urban centers with affordable living, a vibrant food scene, and access to nature. The Carpathians offer hiking and winter sports, while the Black Sea coast is popular in summer. Romanian people are generally welcoming, and English is increasingly common in logistics and urban workplaces.

Job Market Overview: Driver Opportunities in Romania

Romania's logistics scene is diverse. Here are the main opportunities:

International HGV (CE) Drivers

Work scope: Multi-country routes delivering goods across the EU, often on 2-4 week rotations.
Fleet types: Curtain-siders, refrigerated trailers, container transport, flatbeds.
Locations: Carriers clustered in Arad, Oradea, Timisoara, Cluj-Napoca, Sibiu, Brasov, Ploiesti, and Bucharest.
Employers: Romanian subsidiaries of multinational logistics companies and established domestic fleets.
Pros: Higher overall earnings via per diems, exposure to EU routes.
Cons: Time away from home, complex border toll systems, and varying local rules.

Domestic and Regional Distribution (C and CE)

Work scope: Shorter routes within Romania or neighboring countries; more home time.
Typical cargo: FMCG, retail, industrial parts.
Pros: Predictable schedules, better work-life balance.
Cons: Lower net pay than international routes but still competitive for the cost of living.

Bus and Coach Drivers (D)

Sectors: City public transport and intercity coach services; occasional international coach work.
Cities hiring: Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, Iasi, Brasov, Constanta.
Employers: City transport companies such as STB in Bucharest and CTP in Cluj-Napoca, plus private intercity coach firms.
Pros: Stable shifts, public sector benefits in some cases.
Cons: City traffic and customer-facing stress.

ADR and Specialized Transport

Cargo: Fuel, chemicals, medical gases, and other hazardous materials.
Requirements: ADR certification (basic + tank where relevant), rigorous safety standards.
Pay: Premium over standard CE roles due to added responsibility.

Delivery and Last-Mile Drivers

Employers: Major courier and parcel companies, e-commerce operators.
Vehicles: Vans and light trucks.
Pros: Entry-point roles, quick hiring cycles.
Cons: High daily stop counts; physical workload.

Legal Requirements: Work Permits and Visas for Global Citizens

Romania welcomes foreign workers, but non-EU citizens must follow formal procedures. The general pathway is:

Secure a Job Offer

Most employers will start with a screening of your license category (C, CE, D), CPC status, and experience.
Be ready to share digital copies of your passport, driving record, and proof of ADR if applicable.

Employer Applies for a Work Permit (Aviz de munca)

The Romanian employer files with the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) for your work permit.
Processing time: Usually 30 days, but it can vary depending on quotas and documentation.
Required employer documents often include proof of company compliance, job vacancy details, and salary level.

Apply for a Long-Stay Employment Visa (Type D/AM)

Once the work permit is issued, you apply for a D/AM employment visa at the Romanian embassy or consulate in your home country.
Typical documents: Work permit, valid passport, criminal record certificate, medical insurance, proof of accommodation, and visa fee receipts.
Processing time: 10-60 days on average.

Enter Romania and Obtain a Residence Permit

After arriving with the D visa, you must apply for a residence permit from IGI within the required timeframe (often within 30 days of entry).
Documents may include your employment contract, rental agreement, medical insurance, and passport.
The residence permit allows you to live and work legally in Romania for the duration of your contract.

Family Reunification (Optional)

After you secure your legal residence, your family can often apply for reunification visas, subject to eligibility and proof of adequate means and accommodation.

Important notes:

Annual quotas: Romania sets annual quotas for non-EU workers, but logistics jobs have been generally well supported due to demand.
Compliance: Always ensure your contract reflects your true duties and salary. Keep copies of all documents.

Certification and License Recognition in Romania

As a professional driver relocating from Global, ensure your qualifications align with EU and Romanian standards.

Driving License Categories

C: Rigid trucks over 3.5 tons.
CE: Articulated vehicles (tractor-trailer).
D: Buses and coaches.

License Exchange or Validation

If you will reside in Romania long term, you must hold a license recognized by Romanian authorities.
If your license is from an EU/EEA country: You can drive in Romania and may exchange it for a Romanian license when you establish residence.
If your license is from a non-EU country: Romania may allow exchange without testing if your license is from a state with which Romania has agreements and if it meets international conventions. Otherwise, you may be required to pass theory and/or practical tests in Romania.
The authority handling exchanges: DRPCIV (Directia Regim Permise de Conducere si Inmatriculare a Vehiculelor).
Documents typically required: Original license, certified translation if needed, residence permit, medical and psychological certificates, and passport.

Tip: Check the current exchange list and procedures on the DRPCIV website or with your employer's HR department. Rules can vary depending on your issuing country and category.

CPC: Certificate of Professional Competence (Code 95)

EU law requires professional drivers to hold CPC, shown either as Code 95 on your license or as a Driver Qualification Card (DQC).
If you have initial CPC from another country, verify recognition or plan to complete training in Romania.
Periodic training: 35 hours every 5 years. Romanian training centers accredited by the Autoritatea Rutiera Romana (ARR) deliver CPC courses.

Digital Tachograph Card

All professional drivers operating tachograph-equipped vehicles must hold a personal driver card.
Issuing authority in Romania: ARR.
Application basics: Residence permit, ID, photo, application form, and fee (typically under 100 RON). Processing can take from a few days to two weeks.
Remember to download your card data regularly according to company policy and EU rules.

ADR Certification (Hazardous Goods)

ADR is recognized across the EU. If your ADR is from a non-EU jurisdiction, you may need to re-qualify or complete a conversion course in Romania.
Course modules: Basic, Tank, and Specialist classes depending on cargo.
Validity: Generally 5 years with periodic refresher.

Medical and Psychological Assessments

Professional drivers must pass a medical examination and psychological evaluation at authorized clinics in Romania. Certificates are required for license exchange, CPC, and sometimes company onboarding.

Salary and Benefits: What to Expect in Romania

Exchange rate note: For simple comparisons, this guide uses 1 EUR = approximately 5 RON. Actual rates vary.

Typical Net Salary Ranges

International CE drivers: 2,000-3,500 EUR net monthly (10,000-17,500 RON), depending on mileage, routes, per diems, and rotation length. Some earn more on specialized or intensive routes.
Domestic CE or C drivers: 900-1,500 EUR net (4,500-7,500 RON), depending on city and sector.
Bus and coach drivers (D): 900-1,700 EUR net (4,500-8,500 RON), varying by city, public vs private, shifts, and seniority.
Delivery drivers: 700-1,100 EUR net (3,500-5,500 RON), often with bonuses for performance.

Per Diems and Allowances

International routes typically include a daily allowance that is partially or fully non-taxable within legal limits. Many companies pay 50-75 EUR per day while abroad, which dramatically boosts net take-home pay.

Overtime and Bonuses

Overtime and night driving may attract premiums, though EU working time caps apply.
Bonuses can include safe driving awards, fuel-saving performance, on-time delivery bonuses, and seasonal incentives.

Benefits

Paid annual leave: Minimum 20 working days per year, often more by contract.
Social insurance: Contributions provide access to healthcare and pension systems.
Accommodation during training: Some employers cover initial accommodation or training costs.
Travel to join the truck: Many carriers provide transport to your assigned vehicle or depot.

Taxes and Payroll Structure

Romania applies a 10% income tax, but much of a driver's international per diem may be treated as non-taxable within prescribed limits.
Employers often structure pay as a base salary plus allowances. Clarify with HR how your net is calculated, and request a sample payslip.

Cost of Living in Romania: City-by-City Overview

Costs vary by city and lifestyle. Below are typical monthly expenses for a single person.

Bucharest

Rent: 1-bedroom apartment 500-800 EUR (2,500-4,000 RON) in central areas; 400-600 EUR in outer districts.
Utilities: 100-180 EUR (500-900 RON) depending on season.
Internet and mobile: 10-20 EUR combined.
Groceries: 200-300 EUR.
Public transport pass: ~15-20 EUR per month.

Cluj-Napoca

Rent: 400-650 EUR in popular districts; lower in outskirts.
Utilities: 90-150 EUR.
Internet and mobile: 10-18 EUR.
Groceries: 180-260 EUR.
Transport: 12-18 EUR monthly pass.

Timisoara

Rent: 350-550 EUR.
Utilities: 80-140 EUR.
Internet and mobile: 8-15 EUR.
Groceries: 170-240 EUR.
Transport: ~12-18 EUR.

Iasi

Rent: 300-500 EUR.
Utilities: 80-130 EUR.
Internet and mobile: 8-15 EUR.
Groceries: 160-230 EUR.
Transport: 10-15 EUR.

Other Costs

Fuel: 1.4-1.7 EUR per liter (prices fluctuating with global markets).
Eating out: 6-10 EUR for a casual meal; 25-40 EUR for a nice dinner for two.
Car ownership: Registration, insurance, and maintenance are relatively affordable compared to Western EU.

Overall, drivers basing themselves in Romania can retain a larger share of income, especially if working international rotations with per diems.

EU and Romanian Regulations: What You Must Know

EU Driving and Rest Rules (Regulation 561/2006)

Daily driving: Max 9 hours, extended to 10 hours twice per week.
Breaks: 45-minute break after 4.5 hours of driving (can be split 15 + 30 minutes).
Weekly driving: Max 56 hours.
Fortnightly driving: Max 90 hours over two consecutive weeks.
Daily rest: Minimum 11 hours (can be reduced to 9 hours up to three times between weekly rests).
Weekly rest: At least 45 hours; reduced weekly rest of at least 24 hours allowed every other week. Regular weekly rest cannot be taken in the vehicle.

Tachograph Rules (Regulation 165/2014)

Use a digital tachograph and your personal driver card.
Smart tachograph versions are being rolled out under EU Mobility Package rules; new trucks will have Smart Tachograph v2.
Keep printouts and manual entries accurate; companies download and archive your data regularly.

Working Time Directive (2002/15/EC)

Average weekly working time cannot exceed 48 hours over a reference period.
Limitations on night work; rest and break compliance is monitored.

Romania-Specific Road and Compliance Notes

Driving side: Right-hand traffic.
Alcohol: Zero tolerance for professional drivers. Do not risk it.
Speed limits (general guidelines): 130 km/h on motorways for cars; lower for heavy vehicles and buses as posted. Trucks have reduced speed limits; always follow signage.
Winter equipment: Winter tires are mandatory when roads are covered with snow or ice. Chains may be required for heavy vehicles in mountain areas.
Road tolls: Romania uses the e-rovinieta for national roads; heavy goods vehicles pay based on category and duration. Additional tolls apply on certain bridges and motorways. Your employer will typically handle toll devices for international routes.
Fines and enforcement: Police and ISCTR conduct roadside checks for tachograph compliance, load securing, and ADR documentation.

Cultural Integration: Language and Workplace Culture

Language Basics

Romanian is a Romance language with many Latin roots. English is common in logistics hubs and among younger colleagues.
Helpful phrases:
- Buna ziua = Good day
- Multumesc = Thank you
- Va rog = Please
- Unde este depozitul? = Where is the warehouse?
- Documente de transport = Transport documents
- Timp de descarcare = Unloading time

Workplace Norms

Punctuality and documentation: Being on time and keeping paperwork accurate is essential.
Communication style: Direct but polite. Clear confirmations by phone or messaging apps are common.
Safety culture: Increasingly strong focus on compliance, PPE in warehouses, and strict ADR rules.
Professionalism: Clean cab and respectful behavior at loading docks are expected.

Life Outside Work

Romania is safe in most urban areas with standard precautions. Cashless payments are widespread. Traditional markets and modern malls coexist.
Community: Drivers often form networks through company groups and expat forums; this helps with sharing route tips and housing leads.

Practical Steps to Relocate: A Step-by-Step Guide

Research Employers

Target companies with strong safety records, clear pay structures, and real per diem policies.
Look for carriers operating international CE routes if you want higher earnings.

Prepare Your Documents

Updated CV highlighting C/CE/D, ADR, and tachograph experience.
Scans of your license, CPC, ADR certificates, passport, and clean driving record.
References from past employers, if available.

Interview and Offer

Ask precise questions: Net pay estimate with per diems, rotation schedule, home time, vehicle assignment, routes, training support, and accommodation.
Request a draft contract to review before accepting.

Work Permit Application (Employer Side)

Ensure the employer has all your documents promptly so they can apply with IGI.
Monitor progress and ask for official confirmation once the permit is issued.

Long-Stay Employment Visa (Your Side)

Book an appointment at the Romanian embassy/consulate. Bring your work permit, medical insurance, proof of accommodation, passport, and criminal record certificate.
Keep copies of everything.

Travel and Onboarding

Fly into Bucharest, Timisoara, Cluj-Napoca, or another city near your employer.
Attend medical and psychological evaluations if required.
Start CPC periodic training and apply for your digital tachograph card through ARR.

License Exchange (If Needed)

Visit DRPCIV for license exchange after establishing residence. Bring your residence permit, translated documents if needed, and medical/psych certificates.
If your license is not exchangeable, register for theory/practical tests with an approved school.

Housing and Essentials

Rent an apartment or a shared room near your depot. Sign a written lease for residence registration purposes.
Arrange a local SIM card and bank account. Many employers pay by bank transfer.

Vehicle Handover and First Routes

Complete company-specific training: vehicle checks, telematics systems, route planning, and EU documentation.
Start with familiar routes if possible; request mentoring for your first international trips.

Long-Term Planning

Explore family reunification options once settled.
Plan periodic CPC and ADR renewals. Keep a calendar of compliance deadlines.

Common Challenges and How to Handle Them

Driving on the right side: If you are used to left-side driving, take a familiarization session. Practice lane discipline and mirror usage.
Winter driving: Equip with winter tires and chains where required. Reduce speed and increase following distance in snow and fog.
EU toll systems: Use company-provided devices and keep receipts. Know that Germany, France, Italy, Austria, and others have different toll setups.
Working time complexity: Use tachograph correctly, plan rest stops early, and inform dispatch if delays risk compliance.
Border queues and customs (non-EU borders): Time buffers are crucial if routes pass through non-Schengen areas.

Success Tips From Other Expats

Choose employers with transparent pay breakdowns and written per diem policies.
Ask for a guaranteed minimum pay for low-mileage weeks.
Clarify vehicle sharing vs assigned trucks. Assigned vehicles reduce handover issues.
Confirm breakdown assistance, hotel policy for weekly rests, and parking reimbursement.
Keep your documents organized in a folder: license, CPC/DQC, ADR, tachograph card, medical certificates, and employment contract.
Learn basic Romanian phrases. It helps at depots, fuel stations, and when dealing with police checks.
Network with other drivers. They will share tips about rest areas, toll devices, and border crossings.

Case Study: Choosing a Base City in Romania

Bucharest: Best for access to national employers and international airports. Higher rents but vast opportunities in courier and bus sectors.
Cluj-Napoca: Tech and logistics growth, balanced lifestyle, strong public transport company and regional distribution roles.
Timisoara: Proximity to the Hungarian border, heavy logistics presence, ideal for western EU routes.
Iasi: Lower living costs, growing logistics links to Moldova and northeastern corridors, bus and delivery roles.

Conclusion: Make Romania Your EU Logistics Launchpad

As a professional driver in Global, you want a destination that combines real job opportunities, EU-standard safety and regulation, and a fair cost of living. Romania delivers on all fronts. With growing fleets, international routes, and competitive pay structures that leverage per diems, you can build a stable, rewarding career while enjoying a comfortable lifestyle.

Your next steps are clear: shortlist employers, gather your documents, secure a work permit and D/AM visa, and plan your license exchange and CPC/ADR alignment. Once you are on the road, Romania's location and infrastructure put the whole EU within reach.

Ready to move? Start contacting Romanian logistics companies today, ask the right questions about pay and rotations, and plan your relocation timeline. With the right preparation, you can be driving EU routes from a Romanian base within a few months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Plan for 2-3 months overall. The work permit typically takes about 30 days once your employer submits all documents. The D/AM long-stay visa can take 10-60 days, depending on the consulate and season. Build in extra time for gathering documents (criminal record, medical insurance, proof of accommodation).

2) Can my family join me in Romania?

Yes. After you secure your residence permit, your spouse and dependent children can apply for family reunification, subject to financial means, accommodation, and document requirements. Processing times vary, so start early and keep your residence documents up to date.

3) Will Romania recognize my driving license and CPC?

If your license is from an EU/EEA state, it is recognized and exchange is straightforward when you establish residence. For non-EU licenses, Romania may allow exchange depending on bilateral arrangements and compliance with international conventions. Otherwise, you might need theory/practical tests in Romania. CPC recognition depends on equivalence; many drivers complete periodic CPC with an ARR-accredited provider in Romania to obtain Code 95.

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

A common range is 2,000-3,500 EUR net per month (10,000-17,500 RON), including per diems. Earnings depend on routes, rotation length, allowances, and company policy. Ask for a sample payslip to understand the split between taxable base salary and non-taxable per diems.

5) Are winter conditions difficult in Romania?

Mountain corridors can be challenging. Use winter tires when conditions require, carry chains, and reduce speed in snow or fog. Your employer should provide vehicle maintenance support and guidelines for severe weather. Plan routes to avoid high passes during storms when possible.

6) Do I need an ADR certificate to find work?

Not always, but ADR increases your job options and pay potential. Many carriers prefer ADR-certified drivers for fuel, chemical, or medical logistics routes. In Romania, ADR courses are widely available, and certification is valid for 5 years with refresher training.

7) How does the tachograph system work for me as a foreign driver?

You need a Romanian-issued digital tachograph driver card if you are resident and working for a Romanian employer. Apply through ARR with your residence permit. Always maintain accurate entries, take required breaks, and keep printouts for inspections. Companies routinely download your data and monitor compliance.

8) What is the cost of living difference compared to Western Europe?

Rent, groceries, and services are generally 30-60% lower than in Western EU urban centers. A 1-bedroom apartment in Bucharest may cost 500-800 EUR, while similar housing in a Western EU capital can be 1,200 EUR or more. This gap lets your net income stretch further in Romania.

9) Can I drive my right-hand-drive vehicle in Romania?

Romania drives on the right. Right-hand-drive vehicles can enter and be driven, but registration and insurance rules can be stricter. If you plan long-term residence, consider sourcing a left-hand-drive vehicle locally to improve safety and ease of driving on Romanian and EU roads.

10) What rotation schedules are typical for international routes?

Common patterns include 3 weeks on / 1 week off, or 4 weeks on / 2 weeks off, depending on the employer and routes. Confirm hotel policies for regular weekly rests and who pays for accommodation when required by EU law.

Use this guide as your blueprint. With solid preparation and the right employer, Romania can be your launchpad to a sustainable, well-paid EU driving career.