Rules and laws in Romania (2026)
Last reviewed: 31 October 2026
Every topic we cover for Romania. Each rule links to its official source.
Driving
Car speed limits
The default limit is 50 km/h in built-up areas, 90 km/h on ordinary roads outside them and 130 km/h on motorways. Expressways are 120 km/h and European national roads 100 km/h. The limit for residential areas is still being checked.
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E-bikes and speed pedelecs
A pedal-assist bike with a motor of up to 250 W whose assistance stops at 25 km/h is treated as a bicycle. Riders must be 14, riders under 16 need a helmet on the carriageway, and a cycle path must be used where one exists. Faster e-bikes are still being checked.
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Mopeds
A rider must be 16 to ride a moped and must wear an approved helmet. Mopeds (licence category AM) have a maximum design speed of 45 km/h and are registered with the local mayor's office. Insurance is still being checked.
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Motorcycles: helmets and licences
Romanian law requires an approved helmet for motorcycle and moped riders and passengers, and dipped headlights in daylight. The minimum licence age is 16 for A1, 18 for A2, and 20 (with 2 years on A2) or 24 for category A.
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Travel
Air passenger rights
EU Regulation 261/2004 applies. Compensation is EUR 250, 400 or 600 by distance, and a delay of 3 hours or more at the final destination gives the same right as a cancellation. The Commission's list names the National Authority for Consumer Protection (ANPC) as the enforcement body.
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Customs allowances for tobacco and alcohol
From other EU states, Romania's Fiscal Code treats up to 800 cigarettes, 10 litres of spirits, 90 litres of wine (60 sparkling) and 110 litres of beer as for own use if transported occasionally. From outside the EU, the Fiscal Code applies Directive 2007/74/EC, which exempts 1 litre of spirits, 4 litres of still wine and 16 litres of beer for travellers aged 17 or over.
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Health cover for temporary visitors
The card gives access to care from providers that have a contract with a Romanian local health insurance house. It does not cover private care, rescue and repatriation, or planned treatment. The National Health Insurance House (CNAS) is the contact named by the EU.
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Meat and dairy imports
Romania follows the EU rules: no restrictions on meat and dairy between EU Member States, and travellers may not bring meat, milk or their products from most non-EU countries. Small allowances apply for infant milk and fish.
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Short stays (90/180-day rule)
Romania applies the EU Schengen rules: up to 90 days in any 180-day period, a travel document valid three months after departure, and no visa for nationals of the countries listed in Annex II of Regulation (EU) 2018/1806. Entries and exits are recorded in the Entry/Exit System.
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Travelling with pets
EU rules apply: a dog, cat or ferret needs a microchip, an EU pet passport and a rabies vaccination given at least 21 days before travel, and no more than 5 animals may travel together. Entry from outside the EU adds a rabies antibody test unless the origin country is on the Commission's list. Romania-specific restrictions are still being checked.
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Living
Home education
Education is compulsory with attendance in the school setting. Home schooling is organised only for pupils who cannot travel for medical reasons or because of a disability. Parents must ensure the child attends for the whole compulsory period.
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Maximum working time
The normal working time is 8 hours a day and 40 hours a week for full-time employees. Weekly working time including overtime may not exceed 48 hours on average over a 4-month reference period. Employees get 12 hours of rest between two working days and 48 consecutive hours of weekly rest.
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Registering residence for longer stays
EU citizens staying in Romania for more than 3 months must apply for a registration certificate within 3 months of entry at the Romanian Immigration Office. The certificate is issued immediately and is valid for 5 years.
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State pension age
The standard retirement age in Romania is 65 for men; for women it is rising in steps from 62 years 3 months to 65 years by January 2035. Early retirement up to 5 years before is possible with the full contribution period.
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Restrictions
Tobacco and nicotine age limits
Selling tobacco products, e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches to anyone under 18 is banned in Romania. Smoking is banned in all enclosed public spaces, enclosed workplaces and public transport.
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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.