NEWS

Fire extinguisher, vests, and first aid kit – checked when entering Moldova and Romania

What must be in the car for smooth border crossing?

When crossing borders and traveling within the European Union countries, as well as Moldova and Romania, drivers must comply with vehicle equipment requirements (the so-called “car kit”). These requirements are based on international agreements, such as the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, and are detailed in national legislation.

Recent reports indicate that, starting in August 2024, checks for mandatory vehicle equipment have become more active at the border crossings in Romania and Moldova. Specifically, they may check the first aid kit, fire extinguisher, warning triangle, and reflective vests.

Vienna Convention on Road Traffic and Vehicle Equipment

The 1968 Vienna Convention establishes general principles and safety standards for road traffic among member countries, which include many European states, such as Moldova and Romania. The Convention requires member states to implement measures to ensure road safety, including mandatory vehicle equipment for safety. While specific requirements may vary based on national laws, the foundation for these requirements is laid out in the Convention.

Article 178 (1) of Hotărârea Guvernului nr. 1391/2006 states:

At border crossings in Romania, border police have the right to impose sanctions in case of violations of road traffic rules. This means that if you violate traffic regulations, border police can issue a fine or take other measures provided by the law.

This article confirms the authority of border police officers to act in accordance with the law to ensure the enforcement of traffic regulations on Romanian territory, including border areas.

Vehicle Kit for Entry into Moldova

In Moldova, vehicle equipment is regulated by the Road Traffic Safety Law No. 131-XVI from 07.06.2007. Mandatory vehicle equipment in Moldova, including first aid kits, warning triangles, fire extinguishers, and reflective vests, is governed by Government Decision No. 357 from April 13, 2009. This document sets specific requirements for vehicles to ensure road safety.

Car Kit – First Aid Kit, Fire Extinguisher, Triangle, and Vests:

  • First Aid Kit: According to Decision No. 357, every vehicle must be equipped with a first aid kit containing a specified set of medical supplies listed in the annex of the decision.
  • Warning Triangle: According to point 10 of the Decision, every vehicle must have a warning triangle, which must be used in the event of an emergency stop.
  • Fire Extinguisher: Point 11 of the Decision specifies the mandatory presence of a fire extinguisher in the vehicle. The fire extinguisher must meet technical requirements specified in legal regulations.
  • Reflective Vests: Point 12 of the Decision mandates the presence of reflective vests in the vehicle for each passenger and the driver. These vests should be used when stepping onto the road outside urban areas or on highways in poor visibility conditions.

In Moldova, if the police discover that you lack necessary safety items such as a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, or reflective triangles, you may face a fine of up to 300 Moldovan lei (approximately $16-17 USD).

Vehicle Equipment for Entry into Romania

Romania has similar requirements, outlined in national legislation.

Mandatory vehicle equipment in Romania, including the presence of a warning triangle, first aid kit, fire extinguisher, and reflective vests, is regulated by Law No. 195/2002 on Road Traffic (Codul Rutier) and related legal acts. This law covers various aspects of road traffic, including the requirements for vehicle equipment to ensure safety on the roads.

More specific guidance on mandatory equipment is provided in secondary legislation and government decisions, such as Government Decision No. 1391/2006, which approves the Road Traffic Rules and further clarifies requirements for mandatory vehicle equipment.

Car Kit for Romania: To drive on public roads in Romania, the vehicle must be equipped with the following items:

  • First Aid Kit: Contains essential medical supplies.
  • Two Reflective Triangles: Used to warn other road users of obstacles or accidents.
  • Approved Fire Extinguisher: For extinguishing fires, suitable for use in vehicles.
  • Reflective Vests: While not mandatory for all passengers, reflective vests are compulsory for drivers of heavy-duty vehicles (over 3.5 tons).

Excerpt from Codul Rutier:

Article 8: “For circulation on public roads, every vehicle and tram must be equipped with a first aid kit, two reflective triangles, and an approved fire extinguisher.”

This provision clearly outlines the mandatory vehicle equipment required to ensure safety on Romanian roads.

If police in Romania stop you and discover that you lack a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, or reflective triangles, you may receive 4 or 5 penalty points. A similar fine is imposed if these mandatory items have expired. This can result in a fine ranging from 660 to 825 Romanian lei (approximately $145-180 USD).

Conclusion

Adhering to these rules not only helps avoid fines but significantly increases the safety of all road users. When planning a trip, it’s important to make sure all mandatory items are present in the vehicle to ensure smooth travel.

Don’t forget the need for a vehicle inspection before entering Romania—either in Romania or in Ukraine.