Yes, squatted trucks are legal in Romania under strict conditions, but non-compliance with technical and environmental standards can result in fines or confiscation by the Romanian Police or Road Authority (ARR).
Squatted trucks, modified to lower the chassis for aesthetic or performance reasons, must adhere to Romania’s Regulamentul de aplicare a OUG 195/2002 privind circulația pe drumurile publice and EU Directive 2007/46/EC. Modifications require technical approval from the Registrul Auto Român (RAR) and periodic inspections by authorized centers. Since 2024, ARR enforces stricter checks on suspension systems to prevent road hazards, with potential 2026 amendments tightening homologation for aftermarket modifications.
Key Regulations for Squatted Trucks in Romania
- Technical Homologation: Any suspension lowering must receive RAR certification, proving compliance with Romanian and EU safety standards. Unapproved modifications void insurance coverage.
- Height Restrictions: The minimum ground clearance for modified trucks is 160mm (measured under load), enforced during annual technical inspections by ARR-approved centers.
- Lighting & Visibility: Lowered trucks must maintain functional headlights, reflectors, and license plate visibility. Non-compliance risks immediate roadside stops by the Poliția Rutieră.