According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MAI), data collected on registered vehicles across various administrative-territorial units will be sent to prefectures nationwide on December 19, 2025. From December 20, 2025, representatives from local municipalities will be able to access this information, provided they adhere to established security protocols and regulations pertaining to the protection of personal data. This initiative is governed by Law 239 enacted in 2025, which was published in the Official Gazette on December 15. The law will take effect three days after its publication.
In addition to the data transfer provisions, this law also introduces significant changes to vehicle taxation. Beginning January 1, 2026, there will be an increase in vehicle taxes that will affect all vehicle owners, including those with electric vehicles who previously benefited from tax exemptions. This new taxation framework will incorporate pollution standards associated with each vehicle, aiming to promote environmentally responsible behavior among drivers and encourage the adoption of cleaner transportation solutions.
The aim of this legislation is to create a more organized and efficient system for managing vehicle registration and taxation, ultimately enhancing transparency in local governance. By centralizing data on vehicle registrations, municipalities will be better equipped to enforce tax regulations and monitor compliance while protecting the integrity of residents’ personal information.
As the country moves towards this new regulatory framework, it is essential for municipalities to prepare for the changes in how they handle vehicle-related information. This includes ensuring that relevant staff are trained in data protection practices and that proper infrastructure is in place to manage the incoming data securely. The integration of these systems will also require close collaboration between local authorities and the MAI to facilitate seamless data transfer and usage.
With the approach of the new vehicle taxation rates, vehicle owners will need to stay informed about how these changes can impact their finances. The inclusion of pollution standards as a basis for taxation means that individuals may need to evaluate their vehicles’ emissions and consider the potential financial implications of owning higher-emission vehicles. Electric vehicle owners, despite being previously exempt from such taxes, will now have to factor in these tax changes when assessing the overall costs of ownership.
Local authorities will play a crucial role in communicating these changes to the public, providing clear and accessible information about how and when taxes will be levied. As the law comes into effect, it’s important for residents to understand their rights and responsibilities concerning vehicle ownership and taxation.
In conclusion, the implementation of Law 239 is a significant step towards modernizing vehicle registration and taxation in Romania. By mandating the transfer of registration data to prefectures and restructuring vehicle taxes with environmental considerations in mind, the legislation seeks to promote accountability and sustainability in transportation practices. As the December 2025 deadline approaches, both authorities and vehicle owners will need to prepare for a transformative shift in how vehicles are managed and taxed in the country.
