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Driving License in Romania for Expats
Complete guide for foreigners getting a driving license
Quick Answer: Can you drive in Romania with a foreign license?
Yes, for 90 days from residency. After that, you must convert to a Romania license. The official test is only in Romanian, but you can practice in English with AutoviaTest.
Key Facts: Romania Driving License for Expats
| Test Authority | DRPCIV (Direcția Regim Permise de Conducere și Înmatriculare a Vehiculelor) |
| Official Test Language | Romanian |
| Grace Period | 90 days from residency |
| Theory Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Practical Test Required | Yes (if no exchange agreement) |
| Medical Exam | Required |
| Total Cost | RON 500-1,000 (exchange) or RON 3,000-5,000 (full test) |
| Processing Time | 2-4 weeks |
Official test only in Romanian?
Practice in English first with AutoviaTest. Learn all the rules and questions before taking the official test.
🇷🇴 Practice Romania Test in EnglishEligibility by Nationality
🇪🇺 EU/EEA Citizens
EU licenses valid indefinitely. No exchange required.
🇺🇸🇬🇧 US/UK Citizens
USA/UK: Must take full test. No direct exchange agreement.
🌍 Other Non-EU Citizens
Must convert within 90 days of establishing residency.
🎓 Students
Can use foreign license with IDP during studies.
License Exchange Agreements
✅ Direct Exchange (No Test Required)
EU/EEA countries, Moldova, Serbia
❌ No Agreement (Full Test Required)
USA, UK, Canada, Australia - must take full tests
Required Documents
- ✓Valid residence permit
- ✓CNP (Cod Numeric Personal)
- ✓Original foreign license
- ✓Medical certificate
- ✓Psychological test certificate (aviz psihologic)
- ✓Criminal record check
- ✓Passport photos
Costs Breakdown
| Conversion/Exam Fee | RON 91 (license fee) |
| Medical Exam | RON 200 approximately |
| Translation | RON 100-200 (if needed) |
| Total Estimated | RON 500-1,000 (exchange) or RON 3,000-5,000 (full test) |
Tips for Expats in Romania
- 💡Test ONLY in Romanian - practice in English is essential
- 💡Psychological test (aviz psihologic) required - unique to Romania
- 💡Criminal record check required for license application
- 💡Very short 90-day conversion deadline for non-EU
- 💡CNP (personal number) required before applying
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Romanian driving test in English?
No, the official theory test is only available in Romanian. Practice with AutoviaTest in English to learn the rules before taking the official test.
What is the psychological test (aviz psihologic)?
Romania requires a psychological evaluation as part of the license application process. This is a unique requirement that tests your psychological fitness to drive.
Why do I need a criminal record check?
Romania requires a criminal record check (cazier judiciar) as part of the license application. This can be obtained from the local police station.
How long do I have to convert my license?
Non-EU license holders must convert within 90 days of establishing residency. This is one of the shortest deadlines in Europe, so start the process immediately.
Ready to Practice?
Start practicing for your Romania driving test in English.