How to obtain a driving licence in Romania

1. Romanian Driver’s License Basics

• The minimum age is 18 years for most vehicles but varies by category (e.g., 16 for motorcycles under 125cc).
• Automatic license holders cannot drive manual cars.
• Address updates are not mandatory on the license, but residency changes must be reported.
• Licenses have different validity periods: 10 years for standard categories (B), 5 years for professional categories (C, D, E).

2. Foreign Licenses in Romania

• EU licenses remain valid without conversion.
• Licenses from Vienna Convention signatories (e.g., USA, Canada, UK) are valid for 90 days.
• Non-EU and non-Vienna Convention licenses require an International Driving Permit (IDP) to be valid.

3. Who Needs a Romanian Driver’s License?

• If you stay in Romania for over 185 days per year and establish residence, you must obtain a Romanian license.
• Temporary visitors (tourists, short-term workers, students) can usually drive with their foreign license.

4. Getting a Romanian Driver’s License

Option 1: License Exchange (For Some Countries)

• Some non-EU countries (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia, UK) allow license exchange.
• Requires:
  • Valid foreign license
  • Identity proof (passport or residence permit)
  • Criminal record certificate
  • Medical certificate
  • Official translations of documents (if necessary)

Option 2: Take the Driving Exam

• If your country does not have an exchange agreement, you must pass:
  • Theory test (road signs, rules, first aid)
  • Practical exam (driving test with an examiner)

5. How to Exchange Your Foreign License

1. Gather documents (ID, proof of residence, foreign license, etc.).
2. Book an appointment with DRPCIV.
3. Submit documents at a local DRPCIV office.
4. Get a temporary license while waiting for your permanent one.

6. Special Requirements for Certain Countries

• Some non-EU license holders may need extra documents like a notarized declaration or a driving record.
• License exchange policies can change, so always check DRPCIV before applying.

(At the time of writing, based on the official Romanian driving authority DRPCIV)