If you are a resident of Romania and want to buy a car abroad, if you are moving to the country, or if you are in the vehicle import business, in this article we explain, step by step, how to import and register a vehicle in Romania.
What should you check before buying the vehicle?
Before buying a vehicle abroad, it is recommended that you carefully check:
The vehicle’s history
Check the vehicle’s history to find out if:
- it has been involved in accidents
- it has the correct mileage
- it is listed as stolen
- it has passed its MOTs on time
- it has any outstanding debts or restrictions
Vehicle documentation
Ensure you receive:
- the original registration document
- the sales contract or invoice
- the European Certificate of Conformity (COC)
- the vehicle maintenance log
- the de-registration documents, if required
Emissions standards
The Euro standard and emission level are important because they can influence:
- local taxes
- access to certain emission-restricted zones in Europe
- the cost of insurance
- the vehicle’s resale value
How to transport the vehicle to Romania
Transporting the vehicle from abroad to Romania is one of the most important stages of the import process.
The choice of the appropriate method depends on:
- the vehicle’s technical condition
- the country in which it is purchased
- the budget
- the distance involved
- the time available
- the availability of documents and insurance
- the number of vehicles you need to transport
- whether you are a business or a private individual
In practice, there are three main options for bringing a vehicle to Romania.
By road, with temporary number plates
After purchasing the vehicle, the owner or a designated driver drives the car to Romania using:
- temporary export number plates
- temporary insurance
- sales documents
- original vehicle documentation
In many European countries, export number plates are obtained from local registration authorities and are valid for a limited period.
For vehicles coming from the European Union, border checks are usually minimal, but the authorities may verify:
- the vehicle’s documentation
- the driver’s identity
- the validity of the temporary number plates
- the existence of insurance
- the chassis number
Costs may include:
- temporary number plates
- temporary insurance
- fuel
- motorway tolls
- accommodation
- border fees
Depending on the distance and country of origin, the total cost can range from a few hundred to over a thousand euros.
On a transport platform
The vehicle is loaded onto a transport platform or a specialised lorry and transported directly to Romania.
Transport can be individual or alongside other vehicles.
Transport on a flatbed is particularly preferred for vehicles that are:
- unregistered
- damaged
- without a roadworthiness certificate
- collector’s items
- premium or very expensive
For shipments from the European Union, checks are limited.
Through a company specialising in car imports
Some companies offer comprehensive import and registration services.
Depending on the company, services may include:
- checking the vehicle’s history
- negotiating with the seller
- technical inspection
- transport
- customs formalities
- translation of documents
- appointment with the RAR
- obtaining temporary number plates
- final registration
Step 1: Obtaining the import documents
Once the vehicle arrives in Romania, you must prepare the necessary documents for registration.
Generally, you will need:
- the owner’s identity document
- the sales contract or invoice
- the foreign registration certificate
- the Certificate of Conformity (COC)
- proof of the vehicle’s deregistration
- sworn translations of the documents
- proof of payment of the necessary taxes
Step 2: Processing with the Romanian Vehicle Registration Authority (RAR)
One of the most important steps is the vehicle inspection at the Romanian Vehicle Registration Authority (RAR).
The RAR checks:
- the vehicle’s authenticity
- the chassis number
- the technical condition
- emissions standards
- compliance with European standards
- emissions levels
What documents are required at the RAR?
Generally:
- your identity document
- the vehicle’s documentation
- the RAR application form
- the title deed
- your appointment confirmation
Following the inspection, you will receive:
- the Vehicle Identity Document (CIV)
- the certificate of authenticity
- the technical documentation required for registration
Step 3: Payment of fees and taxes
Depending on the type of vehicle and its origin, various costs may apply.
VAT
For new vehicles (less than 6 months old or with under 6,000 km) purchased within the European Union, you may have to pay VAT in Romania if it has not already been paid. In all other cases, no VAT is payable.
Customs duties
If the vehicle is imported from outside the European Union, the following may apply:
- customs duties, if applicable
- VAT, if applicable
Local tax
Following the purchase of the vehicle, it must be declared at the local tax office.
Step 4: Taking out third-party liability insurance
A valid third-party liability insurance policy is mandatory for registration.
The cost of insurance may vary depending on:
- the driver’s age
- the engine capacity
- the claims history
- the type of vehicle
- the place of residence
Step 5 : Carrying out the ITP, if necessary
In certain situations, the vehicle must undergo the Periodic Technical Inspection (ITP) in Romania.
Generally, the ITP is required when:
- the foreign inspection is not recognised
- the vehicle documents have expired
- there are technical discrepancies
Step 6: Submission of the registration application
Once all stages have been completed, the registration application must be submitted to the public service for vehicle permits and registration.
Documents required for registration
In general:
- registration application
- identity document
- proof of ownership
- CIV issued by RAR
- certificate of authenticity
- valid RCA
- proof of payment of fees
- tax certificate
- old number plates, if applicable
- original vehicle documents
When choosing your number plates, you can opt for a random number or a preferred number, subject to payment.
How much does it cost to import and register a vehicle in Romania?
Total costs may include:
- vehicle transport
- temporary number plates
- RAR verification
- sworn translations
- third-party liability insurance (RCA)
- customs duties and VAT
- registration fees
- number plates
The final cost varies significantly depending on:
- the country of origin
- the type of vehicle
- the value of the car
- the engine type
- the emissions level
Is it worth importing a vehicle into Romania?
For many drivers, importing a vehicle can be a very good option, especially when they are looking for:
- a specific model
- better equipment
- a competitive price
- a more transparent history
However, it is important to carefully analyse all the costs and check the documents before purchasing.
Conclusion
Whether you are importing a second-hand, electric, hybrid or high-end vehicle, thorough preparation before purchase can help you save time, money and avoid administrative hassle.
A thorough vehicle inspection, an appointment with the RAR, payment of fees and the correct submission of documentation are the most important steps for obtaining Romanian number plates quickly.
