Romania to bar novice drivers from high‑power‑to‑weight cars

The Romanian Parliament is advancing a proposal to amend the Traffic Code that would prohibit drivers who have held a licence for less than two years from operating vehicles whose power‑to‑weight ratio exceeds 0.075 kW per kilogram. The measure, backed by a favorable report in parliamentary committees and supported by the Romanian Police, aims to curb accidents among new drivers by restricting access to light but high‑performance cars.

Two exceptions are outlined: a newly‑licensed driver may use such a vehicle if a co‑driver with at least ten years of licence experience is present, or if the car is employed for professional duties and the driver can provide appropriate documentation. Violations would be punishable by fines. The proposal has been sent to the Chamber of Deputies for debate and a final vote before it can be promulgated and published in the Official Gazette.