Ukrainians often go to Romania, and not infrequently this happens in their own cars. However, in view of the new rules, before going abroad in your vehicle, you should make sure that the car has passed a technical inspection. This issue became especially relevant after the Romanian border guards introduced new requirements for Ukrainian drivers from August 15, 2024. From now on, every car crossing the border must have a valid MOT certificate.
The change in technical inspection requirements is explained by concern for road safety, because a large number of vehicles from other countries are in poor technical condition, which can pose a danger to drivers and other road users. Therefore, for Ukrainians planning a trip to Romania, it is important to prepare their car in advance to avoid unpleasant situations at the border.
Inspection rules in Romania
Romania has established clear rules governing the passing of technical inspection of cars. This applies to both local residents and foreigners, in particular Ukrainians. Drivers must ensure that their vehicles meet the country’s technical requirements. All cars, regardless of the country of registration, must periodically undergo a technical inspection.
The following requirements apply to different categories of cars:
- New cars are required to pass a technical inspection three years after registration;
- Cars between 3 and 12 years old must undergo a technical inspection every two years;
- Vehicles older than 12 years are subject to technical inspection annually;
- Taxis, vehicles for transporting people or car-sharing cars are serviced every six months;
- Trucks, regardless of weight, must pass a technical inspection annually.
These requirements are mandatory for all foreigners who plan to enter Romania by car. For this, you can use the services of Romanian certified service stations.
Penalties for lack of maintenance in Romania
It should be remembered that failure to comply with these requirements can have serious consequences. If the validity period of the technical inspection has expired, the vehicle registration is considered suspended. There are significant fines for driving a car without a valid MOT. According to Romanian Law No. 195/2002, the fine can be between 9 and 20 points, where each point is equal to 5% of the minimum wage. In 2024, one penalty point is equivalent to 165 lei, making the minimum fine 1,485 lei (about 300 euros) and the maximum 6,600 lei (about 1,320 euros).
If the car is stopped without a valid technical inspection, but with an active registration, the driver can receive a fine in the range of 300-600 euros. If the registration is suspended, the driver will be issued two fines: for lack of maintenance and for driving a car with a suspended registration.
Thus, compliance with the technical requirements is an important condition for a trouble-free entry into Romania and avoiding fines.
