Romania considers power limits for novice drivers

The Romanian Chamber of Deputies is considering a legislative project that would impose restrictions on novice drivers during their first two years of holding a license. The proposal aims to limit the power of vehicles driven by new drivers to a maximum of 75 kilowatts per ton, which is approximately equivalent to 102 horsepower per ton.

Under the proposed law, drivers could only operate more powerful vehicles if accompanied by an experienced driver with at least 10 years of experience or if the driving is performed for professional service purposes. Violations could result in fines of up to 4,000 lei and the suspension of driving privileges, though a 10 percent margin of error in the power-to-weight ratio might only result in a fine.

The initiative, introduced by Deputy Cezar-Mihail Drăgoescu, follows data indicating that nearly 30 percent of drivers responsible for serious road accidents in 2025 held licenses for less than one year. The regulation aligns with existing laws in countries such as France and Italy and is part of a broader effort to improve road safety.