Romania introduces 2026 changes including EU GSR2 Phase 3 safety requirements, extended category B license for electric and hybrid vehicles up to 4.25 tonnes, stricter trailer towing regulations with severe penalties, and digital driver license rollout.
Safety rules
Before
Basic ADAS onlySince July 2024, new cars required basic systems including AEB, ISA, lane-keeping, and drowsiness warning
After (2026)
Camera-based distraction monitoringAll new cars sold in Romania must have Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (ADDW) with camera monitoring to detect phone use or inattention
Licensing
Before
3.5 tonne limit for category BStandard category B license limited to vehicles up to 3,500 kg gross weight
After (2026)
4.25 tonnes for electric/hybridDrivers with category B license held for 2+ years can operate electric or hybrid vehicles up to 4,250 kg after completing a practical course without exam
Penalties & fines
Before
Basic towing rulesGeneral rules for towing trailers with category B license with less severe penalties
After (2026)
Criminal offense for violationsTowing an unregistered trailer is now a criminal offense with fines over 4,000 lei or imprisonment; maximum 3,500 kg for vehicle-trailer combination; mandatory functional braking systems
Licensing
Before
Physical card onlyOnly physical driver license card accepted as proof of driving authorization
After (2026)
Digital license alongside physicalDigital driver license introduced alongside physical version as part of EU Digital Identity Wallet rollout; accepted for domestic use
Yes. From 2026, if you have held your category B license for at least 2 years, you can operate electric or hybrid vehicles weighing up to 4,250 kg (instead of the standard 3,500 kg limit). You need to complete a practical training course, but no new exam is required.
Towing an unregistered trailer is now a criminal offense in Romania, punishable by fines exceeding 4,000 lei or imprisonment. Your vehicle-trailer combination must not exceed 3,500 kg with a standard B license, and the trailer must have functional braking systems.
From July 7, 2026, all new cars must have Advanced Driver Distraction Warning (ADDW) - a camera-based system that detects phone use or inattention. Basic systems like AEB, ISA, and lane-keeping were already mandatory from July 2024 under EU GSR2.
Yes. Romania is rolling out a digital driver license as part of the EU Digital Identity Wallet initiative. It works alongside your physical card and is accepted for domestic use. Keep your physical license for travel outside Romania.
All rule changes are sourced from official government transport agencies and legal publications. AutoviaTest is an independent educational platform and is not affiliated with any government agency. Rules may be subject to change before their effective dates.
Information last verified: 1 February 2026Everything you need to pass on your first attempt
