🇷🇴 Do you need an IDP to drive in Romania?

IDP recommended· 1968 Vienna Convention· Last reviewed 17 Jun 2026

Short answer

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Romania, even where it is not always strictly enforced. Carry it alongside your original national licence.

Driving in Romania: the rule explained

Romania is a party to the 1968 Vienna Convention. Visitors from outside the EU/EEA may drive on a valid foreign licence, but Romanian law requires a non-Latin-alphabet licence (e.g. Chinese, Arabic, Cyrillic) to be accompanied by either an International Driving Permit or a legalized Romanian translation. Carrying a 1968 IDP alongside your original licence is strongly recommended for all non-EU visitors.

Exemption: Romania is an EU member state, so licences issued by any EU or EEA country are fully valid with no IDP or translation required.

Renting a car in Romania

Most Romanian rental companies require non-EU drivers to present an IDP together with the original national licence. Carry both, plus your passport.

Motorcycles & scooters: The same rule applies to motorcycles: carry the matching category plus a 1968 IDP if your licence is not in the Latin alphabet.

What to carry when driving in Romania

Original driving license (physical card)
Passport with valid visa/entry stamp
Translation companion or certified translation of your license
Proof of insurance covering the destination
1968-convention IDP if your licence is non-Latin-script (or a legalized Romanian translation)

Check your exact trip

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Translation companion

A certified, multi-language translation of your licence to carry alongside it. It is not an IDP and does not replace one.

Romania: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Romania?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Romania, even where it is not always strictly enforced. Carry it alongside your original national licence. Romania is a party to the 1968 Vienna Convention. Visitors from outside the EU/EEA may drive on a valid foreign licence, but Romanian law requires a non-Latin-alphabet licence (e.g. Chinese, Arabic, Cyrillic) to be accompanied by either an International Driving Permit or a legalized Romanian translation. Carrying a 1968 IDP alongside your original licence is strongly recommended for all non-EU visitors.

Is a translated driving licence accepted in Romania?

A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Romania read your licence, but it does not replace an IDP where one is legally required. Always carry your original national licence with it.

What do I need to rent a car in Romania?

Most Romanian rental companies require non-EU drivers to present an IDP together with the original national licence. Carry both, plus your passport.

Which IDP convention does Romania use?

Romania recognises IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Make sure your IDP is issued by your own country's authorised issuer under the matching convention.

Official sources

Automobil Clubul Roman (ACR) — International Driving Permit & foreign-driver rules

Need a real, government-recognised IDP? See how to get an IDP from an authorised issuer.

Requirements vary by country. Carry your translation together with your original driving licence and passport; some countries require an official IDP issued by an authorised body in your country of licence. Information provided is general guidance. Always check local regulations for your destination.