Romanians who hold the identity card model 1997 can use it until the expiration date, but no later than August 3, 2031; after this date, the document will no longer be valid.

Romanians who hold the 1997 model identity card can use this document until the expiration date written on it, but no later than August 3, 2031.

After this date, the old model will no longer be accepted as a travel document in the European Union, even if it is still valid. Authorities have introduced the electronic identity card (EIC), which offers a high level of security and can be used to access electronic public services.

There is also the option of a simple identity card (SIC), which does not contain a chip and cannot be used as a travel document. The old model, made of paper, no longer meets current security standards and is more vulnerable to counterfeiting. Authorities encourage citizens to switch to the new documents to benefit from enhanced protection.