Driving in Moldova

💡 Local Driving Tips

• →A road toll (taxa de drum) for foreign vehicles is paid at the Moldovan border.
• →An IDP is recommended — police checkpoints are common on Moldovan roads.
• →Moldova is known for wine — the Cricova and Milestii Mici wineries are underground wine cities accessible by car from Chișinău.
• →Road quality on main routes between cities is improving but rural roads can be potholed and unsigned.
• →Transnistria (the eastern breakaway region) requires separate travel consideration — check your rental agreement and insurance before entering. Most rental companies prohibit it.
• →When an emergency vehicle approaches, pull to the right and stop.

🗣️ Key Driving Words in Romanian (Moldovan)

You may not speak the language, but knowing these words on road signs and at toll booths can save you from confusion — or a fine.

🚦 Speed Limits

Moldova has limited motorway network. 90 km/h on national roads. 50 km/h urban. 30 km/h in residential zones.

💳 Toll Roads & Vignettes

Road toll required for foreign vehicles at entry — paid at the border crossing. A road vignette (taxa de drum) is charged based on vehicle type and duration.

🪧 Road Signs to Know

While most European road signs follow international standards, these are the signs you are most likely to encounter — and the ones that catch tourists off guard.

Must-Know Signs

Country-Specific Signs

📷 Speed Cameras

Camera Types in Moldova

• 📷Fixed cameras on main national roads
• 📷Mobile police speed checks

Police checkpoints are frequent in Moldova. Always carry all documents including IDP and rental agreement. On-the-spot fines are routine.

🅿️ Parking Signs & Zones

Understanding parking zones and road markings can save you a fine or a tow. Here is what each colour and sign means in Moldova.

Parking Zones Explained

Road Line Colours

🗺️ Scenic Routes

• 🛣️ Chișinău to Cricova Wine Cellar Route
• 🛣️ Orheiul Vechi Archaeological Reserve Drive
• 🛣️ Codru Forest Drive