Romania is a beautiful country layered with mountains and verdant countryside with winding roads and the ultimate destination for a road trip. The Transfagarasan is one of the most beautiful and labeled as the best road in the world, a mountain road built using six million kilograms of dynamite. In Romania, travelers have a variety of road-tripping routes to choose from, whether you desire to criss-cross the Carpathian mountain ranges “Romanian Alps”, take a trip through spooky Transylvania to the unique castles and buildings, or travel along the Black Sea coast and stay at resorts along the water, this country has it all. Drive carefully and defensively in Romania, as other drivers on the roads may drive quite erratically. The roads in rural areas may be shared with pedestrians, cyclists, livestock, and even horse-drawn carts, so keep your eyes on the road and your foot close to the brake. If you wish to drive in Romania you must acquire an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to holding a valid U.S. Driver’s license.

Some of the roads in Romania are not in great condition and the country is rated 120 out of 137 states for road quality, with limited freeways and infrequent passing lanes. The roads in major cities and urban areas are generally in fair to good condition, many secondary roads are unpaved, poorly lit, narrow, and lacking marked lanes.

It can be extremely dangerous to drive in the Mountain areas of Romania during the winter months when the roads are covered in ice or snow. Winter tires are recommended for this time of year with deep treads that provide adequate traction. Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers in the vehicle, and children under 12 cannot travel in the front seat. Mobile phones cannot be used while driving in Romania unless with a hands-free system.

Road signs are well posted in Romania. However, they are posted in Romanian and may be unfamiliar to you, it is always a good idea to read up on the signage before driving in another country. Speed limits are shown in km/h. .

The national speed limit in Romania is 130 km/h on the highways, 90 km/h on regional roads, and 50 km/h within towns. (unless otherwise specified).

They drive on the right-hand side of the road in Romania and pass on the left. You are required to have the right paperwork when driving including a valid driver’s license, an International Driver’s permit, registration for the vehicle, and proof of insurance. Seatbelts are required by all passengers in the vehicle at all times.

U.S. Drivers must obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Romania as well as an accompanying valid driver’s license from the U.S. You can get an IDP from AAA and the American Automobile Touring Alliance in the U.S.

Car Rentals

When traveling to Romania, you must be at least 21 years of age to rent a vehicle in Romania and have held a valid driver’s license for at least one year before renting. It may be possible to rent if you are under 25, however, there will be higher fees added to your rental price. The great majority of vehicles to rent in Romania are manual cars, an automatic may be available but will cost you a higher price. The country offers major car rental companies at the airport and in major cities, these include Avis and Hertz.
Gas Stations/Petrol Stations

There are plenty of petrol stations found along the main roads in Romania as well as through the cities and towns. Petrol stations are readily available around cities and villages. On the main highway, the petrol stops are clearly marked and often don’t offer a wide range of services like elsewhere in Europe, where you would have a resting place with a restaurant next to it.