Even if you don’t usually buy lottery tickets, chances are you’ve filled one out at least once — or you’ve heard of someone who does. For some, it’s a long-time habit; for others, just a curiosity. One thing is certain: the lottery has been a part of Romanian life for decades.

Although the world of gambling has expanded significantly, most Romanians don’t really see the lottery as part of that world. Instead, it’s perceived as something else entirely — more like a social tradition with deep cultural roots and wide acceptance.

Beyond the odds, prizes, or statistics, the Romanian lottery has become a cultural custom passed down from generation to generation — something you’ll find among parents, grandparents, coworkers, or neighbors. And games like Loto 6/49 or Joker have long earned their place as local classics.

In this article, we’ll briefly walk you through how it all started, what kinds of games are available, and most importantly — how to get a ticket quickly and easily using a SelfPay Payment Station, with no queues and no hassle.

1. Lottery in Romania – over a century of tradition

• The first official lotteries in Romania appeared in the 19th century, often used to fund public buildings or charitable causes.
• In 1906, the Lottery Law, enacted by King Carol I, helped raise funds for national public projects.
• Throughout the interwar and communist periods, revenue from the Romanian lottery was used to support healthcare, culture, and social services. Instant-win tickets were introduced in 1954.
• In 1999, the National Lottery Company of Romania was formally established, launching now-popular games like Loto 6/49, Loto 5/40, and Joker.

2. Romania’s most popular games: Loto 6/49, 5/40, and Joker

• Loto 6/49 remains the top favorite – you pick 6 numbers out of 49, and you can win prizes even if just 3 numbers match the drawn ones.
• Joker features two sets of numbers and some of the biggest jackpots in the country.
• Loto 5/40 is a simpler, more accessible game, with better odds for smaller prizes and a loyal player base.

3. Lottery stats & fun facts

• Loto 6/49 has odds of about 1 in 14 million for hitting the jackpot, but smaller prizes (like matching 3 numbers) are more common.
• Number 19 is one of the most frequently drawn numbers, followed closely by 24, 18, and 14.
• The largest jackpot ever won in Romania was over 95 million lei (approx. €20 million), awarded in July 2013.
• A portion of lottery revenues continues to support public sectors like healthcare, education, culture, sports, and social programs — preserving its civic role over time.

4. How to buy lottery tickets at a SelfPay Payment Station
   

   Using the Payment Station to purchase lottery tickets is permitted only for individuals who are at least 18 years old. If you want to try your luck with Loto 6/49, Joker, or 5/40, SelfPay makes the process fast, easy, and fully digital.

Here’s how:

1. Find your nearest SelfPay Payment Station using this locator: www.selfpay.ro/en/locations/
2. On the station screen, select “Software & Vouchers”
3. Choose the “loto” category
4. Pick your game: 5/40, 6/49, or Joker
5. Enter your personal identification number (CNP)
6. Choose your numbers for the selected game
7. Enter your phone number and optionally tick the box to receive an SMS with the winning numbers
8. Choose your payment method: cash, card, or change voucher
9. Complete the payment and receive your confirmation on the spot

With over 12,000 SelfPay Stations across Romania — in convenience stores, gas stations, and malls — it’s never been easier to get your lottery ticket without waiting in line.

The lottery in Romania has its own unique place in local culture. It’s less about guarantees and more about the small excitement it brings — and the collective hope that comes with every ticket.

If you decide to take part, do it responsibly and thoughtfully. And if you’re looking for a quick, modern way to get your ticket, SelfPay Payment Stations are always within reach — simple, fast, and easy to use.