Romania Tightens Vehicle Subsidies and Road Tax Rules for 2026

Romania’s Rabla vehicle‑subsidy scheme will become more selective from the 2026 edition. Only cars manufactured in EU member states, the European Economic Area or Mediterranean‑partner countries will be eligible, according to the Ministry of Environment. The voucher amount will remain at last year’s level, while the programme’s budget rises to 300 million lei, up from 200 million lei. The first registration phase is expected to start in June, following a ten‑day public‑consultation period for the new ministerial order.

From 1 October 2026 the current rovinieta system for road use will be replaced. Cars and light vehicles will keep their existing roviniete until they expire, but the new tariff structure will be based on emission standards. Daily fees will range from 22 lei for electric/Euro VI cars to 29 lei for Euro III or older vehicles; monthly and annual rates follow the same tiered pattern. Vehicles over 3.5 tonnes will move to a distance‑based TollRo system, ending the use of traditional roviniete for trucks and buses.

Both measures aim to reduce transport‑related pollution and promote EU‑manufactured or lower‑emission vehicles, while providing a clearer, emission‑linked pricing framework for road use.