Italy vs Romania: Driving Rules Compared

Get caught without winter tyres on a snowy Romanian road and the penalty isn’t just points — police can seize the vehicle’s registration certificate on the spot, alongside 9 to 20 penalty points. Italy’s version of the same offence is a straightforward fine, EUR 87 to 345, with no paperwork confiscation. Romania also holds drivers to zero blood alcohol, a harder line than Italy’s 0.05%, even though both share a 130 km/h motorway limit and right-hand traffic.

Since both Italy and Romania are right-hand-traffic countries, moving between them requires no adjustment to driving side.

Speed Limits Comparison

Italy and Romania share comparable speed limits, making the transition between them relatively smooth for drivers.

In Italy, the standard speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 130 km/h on motorways.

In Romania, the standard speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 130 km/h on motorways.

Key Speed Limit Differences

Always check posted speed signs when crossing between Italy and Romania. Relying on your knowledge of one country’s limits while driving in the other is a common cause of speeding fines for tourists.

Traffic Rules and Regulations

Beyond speed limits, Italy and Romania have several important differences in their general traffic rules.

Driving side: Italy drives on the right; Romania drives on the right. Since both countries use the same driving side, the transition is seamless in this regard.

Minimum driving age: The minimum age to drive a car is 17 in Italy and 18 in Romania.

Mobile phone use: Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal in both countries. In Italy, the penalty is EUR 250-1,000 + 5 points. In Romania, the penalty is RON 580-1,450 (approx. EUR 120-300) + 4 points. Hands-free devices are generally permitted in both countries, but drivers should keep their attention on the road.

Seatbelts: Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants in both Italy and Romania. The fine for not wearing a seatbelt is EUR 83-333 + 5 points in Italy and RON 580-1,450 (approx. EUR 120-300) + 2 points in Romania.

Running a red light: Red-light violations carry serious penalties. In Italy, expect EUR 167-665 + 6 points. In Romania, the penalty is RON 580-1,450 (approx. EUR 120-300) + 4 points.

Alcohol and DUI Laws

Drink-driving laws represent one of the areas where countries diverge most significantly.

Italy sets its blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit at 0.05%.

Romania has a BAC limit of 0.00% (zero tolerance).

The lower limit in Romania means that even a small amount of alcohol could put you over the legal limit. Adjust your behaviour accordingly.

In both countries, penalties for drink-driving include fines, licence suspension, and potential imprisonment for serious offences. New and young drivers often face stricter limits (typically 0.00% to 0.02% BAC) in both Italy and Romania. The safest approach is always to avoid any alcohol before driving.

Tyre and Equipment Requirements

Vehicle equipment requirements are an often-overlooked aspect of driving abroad. Italy and Romania each have their own list of mandatory items.

Winter Tyres

• Italy: Winter tyres are situational. Period: 15 Nov - 15 Apr (varies by region and road). Studded tyres: restricted. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.
• Romania: Winter tyres are mandatory. Period: 1 Nov - 31 Mar. Studded tyres: prohibited. Minimum tread depth: 1.6 mm.

Mandatory Equipment

If renting a vehicle, verify with the agency that it includes mandatory equipment for both Italy and Romania, especially if you plan to cross the border.

Speeding Penalties

The financial consequences of speeding vary between Italy and Romania.

In Italy, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: EUR 42-173. Penalties escalate significantly for higher speeds, and repeat offenders face licence suspension.

In Romania, a minor speeding offence (approximately 10 km/h over the limit) typically results in: RON 290-725 (approx. EUR 60-150). Penalties escalate significantly for higher speeds, and repeat offenders face licence suspension.

Both countries use a combination of fixed speed cameras, mobile speed traps, and in some cases average speed (section control) cameras.

Licence Requirements for Visitors

Before driving in {a} or {b}, ensure you have the correct documentation. Requirements for international visitors vary.

Italy: An EU/EEA driving licence is valid. An IDP is recommended for non-EU licence holders. Visitors can typically drive for up to 12 months on a foreign licence EU/EEA licences valid. Non-EU visitors need IDP or sworn translation.

Romania: An EU/EEA driving licence is valid. An IDP is recommended for non-EU licence holders. Visitors can typically drive for up to 12 months on a foreign licence EU/EEA licences valid. Non-EU visitors need IDP.

Always carry your licence (and IDP if applicable) while driving, as police may request to see it during routine checks or traffic stops.

Emergency Numbers

Knowing the local emergency numbers could save your life. Here are the key contacts:

The EU-wide emergency number 112 works in both countries and connects to the appropriate emergency service.

Practical Tips for Driving in Both Countries

Before hitting the road in Italy or Romania, consider these practical driving tips:

1. Equip your vehicle properly. Ensure you have all mandatory equipment for both countries. It is better to carry extra items than to face a fine for missing equipment.

2. Carry the right documents. Ensure you have your driving licence, IDP (if needed), vehicle registration, and insurance documents. Some countries require you to carry these at all times.

3. Research before you go. Familiarise yourself with the specific rules of each country before your trip. Print or save a summary of key rules for quick reference.

4. Respect local driving culture. Overtaking norms, horn usage, and right-of-way conventions differ. Observe local drivers and adapt accordingly.

5. Adjust to speed limits immediately. When crossing the border, speed limits change. Look for signs and adjust your driving accordingly. Do not rely on habits from the other country.

6. Be aware of environmental zones. Many cities have low-emission zones that restrict older vehicles. Check if you need an environmental sticker for either country.

7. Learn key phrases. If you do not speak the local language, learn basic driving-related phrases. In an emergency, being able to communicate with police or paramedics can be invaluable.

8. Watch for different road signs. While European countries share many sign conventions, there are country-specific signs you should recognise. Review a local driving guide before your trip.

Which Country Is Easier for Tourists to Drive In?

Which country is easier to drive in depends on your experience level, where you are from, and what conditions you are used to.

Based on tourist ratings, Italy scores 3.2/5 (Moderate). ZTL zones catch tourists, aggressive driving in cities, great motorways

Romania is rated 3.5/5 (Moderate) by tourists. Mixed road quality, horse carts on rural roads, limited motorways

Since both Italy and Romania drive on the right, the transition between the two is smooth for most drivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Romania with a Italy driving licence?

Yes, EU/EEA driving licences are fully valid in both countries without additional documentation.

What is the speed limit on motorways in Italy compared to Romania?

The motorway speed limit in Italy is 130 km/h, while in Romania it is 130 km/h. Always watch for posted signs, as limits may vary on specific sections due to roadworks, weather, or local restrictions.

Are winter tyres mandatory in Italy or Romania?

In Italy, winter tyres are situational (15 Nov - 15 Apr (varies by region and road)). In Romania, they are mandatory (1 Nov - 31 Mar). If you are travelling during winter months, it is advisable to use winter tyres regardless of legal requirements for safety.

Which country has stricter drink-driving laws?

Romania has a stricter BAC limit (0.00% (zero tolerance)) compared to Italy (0.05%). Lower limits mean less alcohol is tolerated before driving becomes illegal.

What side of the road do they drive on in Italy and Romania?

Italy drives on the right side and Romania drives on the right side of the road.

Can I use my car insurance from Italy in Romania?

If both countries are within the EU/EEA, your motor insurance Green Card (or its digital equivalent) typically provides minimum third-party cover in both countries. Check with your insurer for full coverage details.

What emergency number should I call while driving in Italy or Romania?

In Italy, the general emergency number is 112 (police: 113, ambulance: 118). In Romania, call 112 (police: 112, ambulance: 112). The pan-European number 112 works in both countries.