Importing a car from abroad into Romania

Before you buy

• Check the VIN, the mileage history and that the car has not been reported stolen or seriously damaged. A paid report by VIN helps.
• Ask for proof that the seller is the owner and that there is no lien in the country of origin.
• Ask whether the car has a European certificate of conformity (COC). With it you avoid individual type approval.
• Right-hand-drive cars generally can't be registered in Romania unless the steering wheel is moved to the left. Don't buy one without checking with the Romanian Auto Registry (RAR).

Deregistration and transport

The seller deregisters the car from the records of the country of origin and gives you proof. For the trip home you need transport plates. They are usually valid for a short time, so leave a margin for the steps in Romania.

The contract and invoice should be in a language you understand. Authorities may ask for translations of the documents.

RAR, ITP and registration

• Identification at RAR. The car gets its vehicle identity book (cartea de identitate a vehiculului, CIV), based on the purchase documents.
• A valid periodic technical inspection (ITP). Ask RAR whether the inspection from the country of origin is recognised or whether you do it again in Romania.
• Submitting the file to the county vehicle registration office (SPCRPCIV), with RCA (mandatory third-party liability insurance) and proof that you paid the local taxes.
• RAR and registration fees change, so check the rates on the official websites.

VAT and tax

From a private person in the EU you pay no VAT when you buy a second-hand car. For a new car, or one bought from a dealer, the rule depends on the tax regime. Check on anaf.ro, the website of the National Agency for Fiscal Administration (ANAF), or with an accountant.

From 2026 the annual car tax is calculated from engine capacity and emissions standard (Euro). For the same capacity, an older Euro standard means higher tax.

From outside the EU

The rules are stricter for cars from outside the EU. The car must meet emissions standards and have the required documents, and vehicles declared a total loss or “parts only” can be refused at registration. Ask RAR for details before you buy.