How Romanian car tax is calculated in 2026
The engine capacity is split into groups of 200 cm³, and any started group counts as a whole one. The number of groups is multiplied by the rate in the table for the band the engine falls in and its Euro standard. The band is set by the total capacity, so every group is charged at the same rate — which is why the tax jumps when an engine crosses into the next band.
Example: a 1,598 cm³ Euro 6 engine has 8 groups (1,598 ÷ 200 = 7.99, rounded up to 8). 8 × 16.5 lei = 132 lei a year, paid in two instalments of 66 lei.
Official 2026 rates (lei per 200 cm³)
Passenger car rates from the Romanian Fiscal Code (art. 470), in force since 1 January 2026.
| Capacity (cm³) | Euro 6 | Euro 5 | Euro 4 | Euro 3 or older | Hybrid |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| up to 1,600 | 16.5 | 17.6 | 18.8 | 19.5 | 16.2 |
| 1,601 – 2,000 | 25.1 | 26.7 | 28.5 | 29.7 | 24.6 |
| 2,001 – 2,600 | 77.8 | 82.8 | 88.6 | 92.2 | 76.3 |
| 2,601 – 3,000 | 151.2 | 154.1 | 172.8 | 182.9 | 149.8 |
| over 3,000 | 290 | 294.4 | 297.3 | 319 | 275.5 |
Electric cars pay a flat 40 lei a year, whatever the motor.
Source: Romanian Fiscal Code, art. 470, as amended by Law no. 239/2025. Hybrids emitting at most 50 g CO₂/km can get up to 30% off from the town hall.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I pay car tax in Romania?
At the town hall where you are registered as resident, not at ANAF. You can pay online on ghiseul.ro, on the town hall's own platform or at its cash desk.
When is car tax due?
In two equal instalments: the first by 31 March, the second by 30 September. If the yearly tax is 50 lei or less, it is paid in full by 31 March. Pay the whole year by 31 March and many town halls give you up to 10% off.
Do electric cars pay car tax?
Yes — since 2026 electric cars pay a flat 40 lei a year. Until 2025 they were exempt.
Why does the town hall ask for a different amount?
The calculator uses the national base rates. Local councils can add surcharges (of up to 100%) or grant reductions, and the early-payment discount varies between town halls. The exact amount is on ghiseul.ro or your town hall’s website.
I sold the car. Do I still pay?
No — but only once you file the deregistration declaration with the town hall, together with the sale contract. Until then the tax keeps accruing in your name.
Want the full picture, with exemptions and what to do when you sell? Read the complete car tax guide