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 | DGPCI (Direcția Generală Permise de Conducere și Înmatriculări) |
| 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 |
Preparing for the Romanian driving test?
Practice with realistic questions on AutoviaTest. Learn all the rules before taking the official test.
🇷🇴 Practice Romania TestEligibility 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
Planning to take the driving test?
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Start Free PracticeCosts 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?
What is the psychological test (aviz psihologic)?
Why do I need a criminal record check?
How long do I have to convert my license?
Ready to Practice?
Start practicing for your Romania driving test in English.