🚗 Driving in Moldova 2026 — A Vignette Is Required, and Alcohol Is Near Zero

If you plan to drive in Moldova, knowing the local rules can save you from fines and trouble. Speed limits, alcohol laws, and equipment requirements are all enforced, especially for foreign-registered vehicles.

Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 110 km/h on motorways. The blood alcohol limit is 0.03% BAC. You must be at least 18 to drive.

Emergency Numbers in Moldova

General Emergency: 112 | Police: 112

Save these numbers before you start driving. In Moldova, emergency calls are free from any phone.

Speed Limits in Moldova

The default speed limits for passenger cars in Moldova are 50 km/h in built-up areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 110 km/h on motorways.

Trucks and vehicles over 3.5 tonnes have lower limits: 50 km/h urban, 80 km/h rural, and 90 km/h on motorways.

For comparison, motorway limits in nearby countries: Ukraine (130 km/h).

Important: Posted signs always override default limits. Watch for temporary restrictions in construction zones, near schools, and in residential areas.

Speeding Fines and Penalties

Other common fines:

• Mobile phone use while driving: MDL 600-1,200 (approx. EUR 30-60)
• Running a red light: MDL 900-1,800 (approx. EUR 45-90)
• Seatbelt violation: MDL 300-600 (approx. EUR 15-30)

Traffic Rules and Regulations

Drive on the right side of the road. Overtake on the left. At roundabouts, enter counter-clockwise and yield to traffic already circulating.

Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Children must use appropriate restraint systems based on their age and height.

Using a hand-held phone while driving is illegal. The fine is MDL 600-1,200 (approx. EUR 30-60). Use hands-free devices only.

Daytime running lights are required in most situations. Dipped headlights must be used in tunnels, rain, and reduced visibility.

Priority at intersections follows posted signs. When no signs are present, yield to traffic from the right.

Drink-Driving Laws and Alcohol Limits

The safest approach is to not drink at all if you will be driving. Alcohol affects reaction time and judgement regardless of the legal limit.

Tyre Requirements and Regulations

Winter tyre requirement in Moldova: Required.

The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm. Safety experts recommend replacing tyres at 4.0 mm for adequate grip.

Studded tyres are prohibited in Moldova.

For detailed tyre law information, see our Tyre Laws in Moldova guide.

Mandatory Vehicle Equipment

Vehicles in Moldova must carry the following:

Required:

• Warning triangle
• Reflective vest (high-visibility)
• First aid kit
• Fire extinguisher

Recommended:

• Spare bulbs

Keep all equipment accessible — not buried under luggage. Police may check during routine stops.

Driving License Requirements

Always carry your original driving licence — photocopies are not accepted.

The minimum driving age is 18 years.

Parking and Fuel

City-centre parking in Moldova is typically paid — use parking meters, ticket machines, or mobile payment apps. Look for P+R (park and ride) facilities on the outskirts connected to public transport.

Current fuel prices in Moldova: petrol approximately $1.15/litre, diesel $1.05/litre (USD). Prices vary by region and station.

Most fuel stations accept major credit and debit cards. In rural areas, keep your tank above half — stations may be far apart.

Seasonal Driving Conditions

Summer driving is generally straightforward with long daylight hours. Watch for tourist traffic near popular destinations.

Practical Driving Tips for Moldova

• Download offline maps of Moldova before your trip — mobile signal can be unreliable on rural roads.
• Check if you need a motorway vignette (toll sticker) or an environmental zone sticker for city driving.
• Take a break every 2 hours on long drives. Fatigue is a leading cause of road accidents.
• Use our interactive tools on this page — compare rules with your home country and calculate potential fines before you set off.