Romania follows the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. That means:
- ✅ A 1968-format IDP is the correct version.
- ❌ A 1949-format IDP is not valid in Romania.
- EU/EEA/Swiss licence holders don’t need an IDP.
- Non-EU travellers with non-Latin script licences must carry a 1968 IDP.
- Many rental companies and insurers require an IDP even if not strictly mandated.
The safest choice? Secure a 1968 International Driving Permit before your trip—especially if your licence isn’t EU/EEA or isn’t in Latin script.
👉 You can quickly obtain your dual-convention IDP through the International Drivers Association (IDA), the only provider covering both the 1968 Vienna and 1949 Geneva Conventions—ensuring you’re protected for Romania and beyond.
Recognition & Legal Basis
- Romania is a contracting party to the 1968 Vienna Convention.
- Romania is not a contracting party to the 1949 Geneva Convention.
- The correct IDP format for Romania is the 1968 IDP.
- Rules are enforced under:
Who Needs an IDP in Romania?
Licence origin | Script type | IDP requirement | Notes |
|---|
EU/EEA/Switzerland | Latin | ❌ Not required | Licence recognized directly |
UK | Latin | ❌ Not required (short stays) | 1968 Convention party; IDP may be needed for rentals |
Non-EU, 1968 Convention (e.g., Australia, Japan) | Latin | ❌ Often not required | Rental companies may require it |
Non-EU, 1968 Convention | Non-Latin | ✅ Required | Ensures translation and acceptance |
Countries under 1949 only | Any | ⚠️ Not valid | Get a 1968 IDP or sworn translation |
Neither convention | Any | ✅ Strongly recommended | Recognition uncertain |
How to Get an IDP for Romania
You must secure your International Driving Permit before traveling. Romania accepts only the 1968 Vienna Convention IDP, and the 1949 Geneva format is not valid.
The International Drivers Association (IDA) makes the process simple. Every permit issued by IDA includes both the 1968 and 1949 conventions by default, so you’re always covered not only in Romania but also in over 240+ countries worldwide.
Step 1 – Confirm the Correct Format
- Romania requires the 1968-format IDP.
- A 1949-format IDP alone will not be accepted.
Step 2 – Prepare Your Documents
To apply with IDA, you’ll need:
- A valid domestic driving licence
- A passport-style photo
- A completed application form
- Payment of the processing fee
Step 3 – Apply with IDA
- Submit your application online in minutes.
- Get a dual-convention IDP that covers both Vienna (1968) and Geneva (1949) standards.
- Enjoy 24/7 support, unlimited free replacements, and worldwide delivery.
Step 4 – Carry Both Documents
Your IDP is only valid when presented together with your original licence. Romanian police, rental companies, and insurers will ask for both.
✅ Pro tip: With IDA, you never have to worry about choosing the wrong format. Every permit automatically includes complete dual-convention coverage for maximum acceptance.
Using Your IDP in Romania
- Always carry:
Domestic licence
- 1968 IDP (if applicable)
- Passport/ID
- Vehicle registration + insurance
- Rental agreement (if renting)
- Road vignette (rovinietă)
- Emergency equipment (triangle, vest, first aid kit)
- Police checks: Officers require physical documents. Digital licences are not accepted.
- Rentals & insurance: Many rental firms demand an IDP for non-EU licences or non-Latin scripts. Insurance claims can be denied without one.
Residency Rules
- Visitors can drive with their home licence (and IDP if needed) until establishing residence.
- Once resident, non-EU drivers must exchange their licence via DRPCIV (Romanian driving authority).
- EU/EEA licences remain valid under EU law.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- ❌ Bringing a 1949 IDP instead of 1968.
- ❌ Relying on IDP without your original licence.
- ❌ Assuming digital licences are valid.
- ❌ Ignoring rental company IDP requirements.
- ❌ Waiting until arrival—IDPs cannot be issued inside Romania.
FAQs – International Driving Permit in Romania
1. Do I need an IDP to drive in Romania?
- EU/EEA/Swiss licences: No.
- Non-EU licences in Latin script: Often no, but recommended.
- Non-Latin script licences: Yes, 1968 IDP required.
2. Which IDP format does Romania accept?
- Only the 1968 Vienna Convention IDP. Romania does not recognize the 1949 IDP.
3. Can I use a digital licence?
- No. Only physical documents are accepted at roadside checks.
4. Where can I get a valid IDP?
- From your home country’s issuing authority or through the International Drivers Association (IDA), which provides dual-convention permits valid in 240+ countries.
5. Do rental companies require an IDP?
- Many do, especially for non-EU licences. Check terms before booking.
6. Can I get an IDP inside Romania?
- No. You must secure it before travel.
IDP Checklist for Romania
✅ Confirm you need a 1968 IDP
✅ Apply through an authorized issuer or IDA
✅ Carry your licence + IDP together
✅ Verify rental and insurance terms
✅ Buy a rovinietă vignette if driving outside cities
✅ Pack required safety equipment
Final Word
Driving in Romania is straightforward when you carry the right documents. Since Romania recognizes only the 1968 Vienna Convention IDP, travelers should secure this format in advance.
The International Drivers Association (IDA) makes the process easy—issuing dual-convention IDPs valid in 240+ countries, with 24/7 support and guaranteed global acceptance.
👉 Apply for your 1968 IDP today with IDA and enjoy stress-free driving in Romania and across Europe.
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