Guide: How to Renew Your Driver's License in Romania [2026 Edition]
A driver's license is the most important document for a driver, and its expiration can bring significant headaches. Although many drivers view the renewal process as a bureaucratic chore, the truth is that with the digitalization of public services, things have become much more accessible.
The purpose of this article is to provide you with a detailed guide for renewing your driver's license in Romania in 2026. We will cover every necessary step, from obtaining the medical record to picking up the new document, detailing the locations you need to visit, the required documents, and the total costs involved.
When Is It Necessary to Renew Your Driver's License?
Many people are unsure if they need to change their license. Here are the main situations where renewal is mandatory:
1. Expiration of Administrative Validity
Driver's licenses do not have unlimited validity. Depending on the category your license belongs to, it may be valid for 5 or 10 years.
- Categories A, AM, A1, A2, B, B1, BE: 10 years validity.
- Categories C, CE, D, DE etc. (professional): 5 years validity.
It is crucial to check the date mentioned in field 4b on your license. Our recommendation is to start the renewal process at least 30 days before the expiration date to avoid moments when you might be forced to drive without a license (which is illegal) or wait for the new document.
2. Loss, Theft, or Damage of the License
If your license has been lost, stolen, or damaged in a way that makes reading the data impossible, you are required to request a duplicate. The process is similar to renewal for expiration, but you will have to declare the loss or theft.
3. Change of the Holder's Name
If you have changed your name (for example, through marriage or divorce), the driver's license must be renewed to reflect the new legal identity. This must be done within a legal time limit from the date of the name change on your identity document.
Required Documents: Complete Checklist
For the process to run smoothly, you must have a complete file ready. The absence of a single document can send you back from the counter to try again another day.
Here are the documents you need:
A. Personal Documents
- Renewal Application: This is usually completed at the counter when submitting the file, but you can download and complete it in advance from the official DRPCIV website to save time.
- Identity Document: Identity card (original and copy). Ensure it is valid.
- Old Driver's License: Original. If it was lost or stolen, you will have to submit a self-declaration statement to this effect (included in the application form).
B. Medical Documents
- Standard Medical Record: This must be issued by a medical unit authorized by the Directorate of Public Health (DSP) and must certify that you are "Fit for driving motor vehicles." The record must be signed and stamped by specialist doctors and the coordinating doctor, and must have the medical unit's stamp applied.
C. Proof of Payment
- Proof of Payment for the License Fee: Fee of 89 lei. This can be paid through various methods (this fee can be paid on ghiseul.ro under the Other Taxes section or directly at this link).
Important note for the year 2026: Starting this year, the process of obtaining the medical record can be completed in some large cities directly through the clinics' IT systems, which send the data digitally to the police, eliminating the need for a physical record in certain cases. However, it is recommended to have the physical record with you just in case.
How Do You Obtain the Medical Record for the License?
This is the stage that causes the longest delays. The medical record requires approvals from several specialties, which means you have to visit multiple doctors.
Required Specialties:
- Internal Medicine: Checks general health status.
- Ophthalmology: Tests visual acuity and visual field.
- Otorhinolaryngology (ENT): Checks hearing acuity.
- Neurology: Evaluates the functions of the nervous system.
- Psychiatry: Evaluates mental state.
- Orthopedics and Traumatology: Checks the musculoskeletal system.
Where Can You Get the Record?
- Private Clinics: Usually faster, but costs are higher. Many clinics offer "all-in-one" services where you can complete all investigations in the same location in a single day.
- Public Hospitals: Can be cheaper, but queues are long and it may take several days to obtain all approvals.
Cost Breakdown (2026 Estimate)
It is important to know what amounts to expect in order to budget properly for your license renewal.
| Item | Approximate Cost | Observations |
|---|---|---|
| License Fee (DRPCIV) | 89 RON | Fixed at the national level. |
| Medical Record | 150 - 250 RON | Varies by city and clinic. |
| Photo Fees (optional) | 20 - 30 RON | In many DRPCIV centers, photos are taken on the spot. |
| Document Copies | 5 - 10 RON | Copying costs. |
| Total | ~264 - 379 RON |
Methods to Pay the 89 Lei Fee:
- Online: Via platforms such as Ghișeul.ro (recommended, the fastest method).
- Banks: At CEC Bank or BCR counters.
- Payment Stations: Through self-service payment terminals (e.g., ZebraPay).
Where Do You Go to Submit Documents and Pick Up the License?
Documents are submitted to the Public Community Service for Driving Licenses and Vehicle Registration (SPCRPCÃŽV) in the county where you have your domicile or residence.
The Importance of Online Scheduling
To avoid massive queues and wasted hours, online scheduling is absolutely necessary.
- Access the official DRPCIV website (or the Prefecture website in your county).
- Choose the option "Online scheduling for license renewal."
- Select the county, date, and time you wish to attend.
- You will receive a confirmation code. Do not forget to show up at the scheduled time!
After submitting the file, the license will be issued and will arrive within a few days. It can be picked up in person from the SPCRPCÃŽV headquarters or sent by mail to your home (if you requested this service at submission).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What happens if I drive with an expired license?
Driving a vehicle with an expired license is sanctioned with a large contravention fine and the retention of the registration certificate (if there is no other person with a valid license in the car). In case of an accident, the TPL (RCA) insurance will not cover the damages.
2. Can I get the medical record in another county?
Yes, the medical record can be issued by any authorized unit in Romania, regardless of the county where you reside.
3. How long is the medical record valid?
The medical record is valid for 6 months from the date of issuance.
4. Is a copy of the auto record (cazier auto) still needed?
No, in 2026, the auto record check is done digitally by DRPCIV officials.
Conclusion
Renewing a driver's license in Romania is a structured process that requires attention to detail and prior preparation. By gathering the necessary documents, scheduling online, and completing the medical record on time, the process will run smoothly.
This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. For official and real-time updated details, always consult the DRPCIV website.