newsweek.ro/auto/poate-fi-pacalit-sistemul-de-plat

Romania has introduced a new rovinieta payment system based on pollution standards, effective from October 1, 2026. The system allows short-term payments via SMS without providing the vehicle's VIN, raising concerns about potential misuse. CNAIR clarified that while SMS payments are convenient, they still verify the vehicle's pollution class through registration databases. If a driver is found using a rovinieta for a lower pollution class than their vehicle, they face penalties. The system aims to ensure compliance and discourage evasion of higher fees for more polluting vehicles.