Romania

Fines for speeding in Romania

Fines in Romania are calculated based on a point system, where one point is equivalent to 10% of the gross minimum wage. The fines for exceeding speed limits are categorized as follows:

  • Exceeding by 10–20 km/h: 2 to 3 points (approximately €55 to €83).
  • Exceeding by 21–30 km/h: 4 to 5 points (approximately €110 to €138).
  • Exceeding by 31–40 km/h: 6 to 8 points (approximately €165 to €220).
  • Exceeding by 41–50 km/h: 9 to 20 points (approximately €250 to €500).
  • Exceeding by 51–60 km/h: 21 to 50 points (approximately €550 to €1,100).
  • Exceeding by more than 60 km/h: 51 to 100 points (approximately €1,150 to €2,300).

Additional Penalties:

  • License Suspension: Exceeding the speed limit by more than 50 km/h may result in the suspension of the driver’s license for a period ranging from 1 to 3 months.
  • Accumulation of Points: Accumulating 15 penalty points within six months leads to a 30-day suspension of the driver’s license.

Do I need to purchase Vignette?

In Romania, there is a vignette system for passenger vehicles and a toll system for certain roads. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Who Needs a Vignette?

  • Vignette required for all vehicles (including passenger cars) that are using public roads in Romania.
    • This applies to all motorways (autostrăzi) and national roads (drumuri naționale).
  • Vignette Types:
    • Vignettes come in different durations: 7 days, 30 days, and 1 year.
    • The price depends on the duration and the vehicle type (passenger cars, larger vehicles, etc.).
      • For a passenger car (class 1), prices range from about €3 to €28 depending on the duration.

2. Where to Buy a Vignette

  • Online: You can buy a vignette online through the official Romanian Road Authority website or via mobile apps.
  • Gas Stations: Vignettes are also available at many gas stations across the country.
  • Border Crossings: Vignettes can be purchased at border entry points into Romania.

3. Toll Roads

  • Toll Roads: In addition to the vignette system, Romania has some toll roads (specific sections of highways or bridges), where you will need to pay separately.
    • For example:
      • The Fetesti-Cernavoda Bridge (on the A2 highway) requires a separate toll payment.
      • Some sections of the A1 and A2 highways have tolls, especially around Bucharest.
  • Electronic Tolling: Some highways use an electronic tolling system. The e-Toll system is being rolled out in Romania, requiring the use of an electronic device for toll payment (mainly for trucks, but it may be expanded).

4. Vignette Enforcement

  • Vehicle Checks: Police will check for a valid vignette when you’re driving on highways or national roads. If you don’t have one, you may face a fine.
    • The fine for driving without a valid vignette can be €100 to €120.

5. Penalties for Non-Compliance

  • For Vignette Non-Payment: If you’re caught driving without a vignette, you may face fines ranging from €100 to €120.
  • For Toll Roads: If you fail to pay the toll on a specific section, the fine can be €50 or more, depending on the road.

6. Additional Information

  • Environmental Zones: Romania does not have low-emission zones (LEZs), but it is a good idea to check local regulations in major cities like Bucharest or Cluj-Napoca for potential restrictions.
  • Toll-Free Roads: Most of Romania’s highways (autostrăzi) require a vignette, but smaller roads and local routes are typically toll-free.

7. Tips for Travelers

  • Purchase Your Vignette in Advance: Make sure you buy your vignette before you enter Romania, as not having it can lead to fines.
  • Check for Toll Sections: While most highways require a vignette, some specific bridges and road sections also require separate toll payments.
  • Travel Smart with E-Toll: If driving a truck or larger vehicle, make sure you register for the e-Toll system if needed.