Country Guide

Importing a Car from Germany to Romania

Romania is one of the fastest-growing markets for German used car imports. With the abolition of the registration tax (timbrul de mediu) in 2020, importing has become even more attractive. The significant price difference between German and Romanian used car prices drives hundreds of thousands of imports annually.

Check a VIN Before You Buy

Key Import Facts: Germany to Romania

VAT Rate

19%

Registration Tax

No registration tax since 2020 (previously timbrul de mediu was abolished)

Technical Inspection

ITP (Inspectia Tehnica Periodica)

RON 150-200 (approx. EUR 30-40)

Typical Savings

30-50% compared to Romanian market prices

Import Duties

None (abolished since 2020)

Currency

RON

Why Romanian Buyers Choose German Cars

Romanian prices for used cars can be 30-50% higher than equivalent vehicles in Germany. The elimination of the registration tax removed the last major financial barrier. German cars are perceived as better maintained, and the Autobahn culture means many vehicles are in excellent mechanical condition.

Most Popular Models Imported to Romania

VW GolfBMW 3 SeriesAudi A3/A4Mercedes C-ClassVW Passat

Import Duties and Taxes

No customs duty within EU. Romania abolished the vehicle registration tax (timbrul de mediu) in 2020, making imports significantly cheaper.

Cost Summary

Customs Duty (EU)EUR 0 (free movement)

Registration / Excise TaxNone (abolished since 2020)

Technical InspectionRON 150-200 (approx. EUR 30-40)

VIN Check (recommended)EUR 8.90

Required Documents

Make sure you have all the following documents when importing a car from Germany to Romania:

German Fahrzeugbrief (Zulassungsbescheinigung Teil II)

German Fahrzeugschein (Zulassungsbescheinigung Teil I)

Kaufvertrag (purchase contract) — notarized translation

Valid ITP (technical inspection) result

Proof of RCA insurance (Romanian MTPL)

Valid ID card or passport

Fiscal certificate from ANAF

COC (Certificate of Conformity) — if available

Registration Process in Romania

Once you have the vehicle in Romania, follow these steps to complete the registration at Directia Regim Permise de Conducere si Inmatriculare (DRPCIV):

Obtain a fiscal certificate from ANAF (National Agency for Fiscal Administration)

Get RCA insurance (Romanian third-party liability) from a local insurer

Pass ITP technical inspection at an authorized station

Submit all documents to DRPCIV (the registration authority)

Receive Romanian registration plates and talon (registration certificate)

Tips for Romanian Buyers

Romania has no registration tax since 2020, making it one of the cheapest EU countries to import to

Get documents translated by an authorized translator (traducator autorizat)

The COC (Certificate of Conformity) speeds up registration — request it from the dealer

Run a VIN check before purchase to detect odometer fraud, which is common in cross-border sales

You have 90 days to register the vehicle after importing it to Romania

Check the Vehicle Before You Buy

Before importing a car from Germany to Romania, run a comprehensive VIN check. Verify accident history, odometer readings, theft status, and original specifications. The free check already reveals key specs and safety recalls.

Free VIN Check All Import Guides

Importing to Romania — FAQ

Is there still a registration tax for imported cars in Romania?

No. Romania abolished the vehicle registration tax (timbrul de mediu/taxa auto) in 2020. You no longer need to pay any environment or registration tax when importing a used car. This makes Romania one of the most affordable EU countries for car imports.

How long do I have to register an imported car in Romania?

You have 90 calendar days from the date of entry into Romania to register the vehicle at DRPCIV. During this period, you can drive with the German export plates. After 90 days, driving an unregistered vehicle is illegal and can result in fines.

Do I need a COC to register a German car in Romania?

A Certificate of Conformity (COC) is not strictly required but highly recommended. It significantly speeds up the registration process. Without a COC, you may need a RAR (Registrul Auto Roman) inspection, which costs more and takes longer. Ask the German dealer for the COC or request it from the manufacturer.

What about VAT when importing from Germany to Romania?

If buying from a private seller, and the car is older than 6 months with more than 6,000 km, no additional VAT is due. If buying from a dealer with VAT on the invoice, you may be able to reclaim it in Germany and pay Romanian VAT (19%) instead. For margin-scheme vehicles (Differenzbesteuerung), no additional VAT applies.