Driving in Romania as a Japan National

Romania offers spectacular mountain driving including the famous Transfagarasan Highway, but visitors should expect horse carts on rural roads and rapidly improving infrastructure. An IDP is recommended for non-EU license holders.

Key Things to Know First

No IDP Typically Required

Romania generally accepts foreign licences for short-term visitors. Carry your original licence and passport at all times.

Drive on the Right — You Are Switching Sides

Japan drives on the left, but Romania drives on the right. Extra caution required at roundabouts, intersections, and after exits.

Tips for switching sides

Side-by-Side Comparison

Rule	Japan	Romania	Change?
Traffic side	Left-hand traffic	Right-hand traffic	Yes
Speed unit	km/h	km/h	Same
IDP required	—	No	No
Min. driving age	18	18	Same
Emergency number	110	112	Different
Road difficulty	Moderate	Moderate	—

Speed Limits in Romania

Urban

50 km/h

Rural / Open road

90 km/h

Highway / Motorway

130 km/h

Documents to Carry in Romania

Original driving licence from Japan — must be valid and unexpired
Passport or national ID — carry at all times while driving
Car insurance certificate — verify it covers Romania before departure
Vehicle registration / rental agreement

Emergency Number in Romania

112

112 is the pan-European emergency number, widely accepted across many countries worldwide.

Emergency numbers for all countries

Full Romania Driving Guide

Road rules, toll system, fuel types, parking, regional quirks — everything you need for driving in Romania.

Read the complete guide