Driving License in Vietnam

Driving in Vietnam attracts many expatriates and travelers, drawn by the freedom of exploring the country by scooter or car. But what are the rules to follow? Which license is recognized? What are the obligations for foreigners? Since 2015, the legislation has evolved, imposing new requirements and penalties. Here is a complete overview to drive safely and legally in Vietnam.

The different types of driving licenses in Vietnam

Vietnamese Licenses:

• The Vietnamese driving license is mandatory for residents and Vietnamese nationals.

• There are several categories depending on the type of vehicle (A1/A2 for motorcycles, B1/B2 for cars, etc.).

International License:

• Since August 2015, Vietnam officially recognizes international driving permits (IDP) issued by countries that signed the 1968 Vienna Convention.

• Foreigners must carry an IDP along with their valid national license.

• Vietnamese nationals can also obtain an IDP to drive in 73 signatory countries.

Foreign Licenses:

• National licenses alone are not recognized, unless officially converted with the Vietnamese authorities.

• Foreign drivers must work with authorized travel agencies to obtain permission to drive their own vehicle.

Rules and regulations for foreigners

Entry and driving conditions:

• Foreigners must present a valid international driving permit along with their national license.

• The maximum period a foreign vehicle can circulate in Vietnam is 45 days, unless exceptions apply.

• Vehicles must be registered and insured, with all documents up to date.

• To drive a car, a Vietnamese guide must be present in the vehicle.

Specific obligations:

• Helmets are mandatory for all drivers and passengers on two-wheelers since December 15, 2007.

• The legal blood alcohol level is 0 mg/L: any alcohol consumption before driving is strictly prohibited.

• Vehicle insurance is mandatory.

Penalties and fines:

• Driving without a valid license or IDP results in a fine of 200,000 to 1,200,000 VND (approx. 8 to 45 €).

• Drunk driving is severely punished: fines, license suspension, or even prison depending on severity.

• Serious offenses (accident, injury, death) can lead to fines from 30 to 100 million VND or imprisonment up to 15 years depending on severity.

Recent regulation changes

• Since August 2015, Vietnam issues and recognizes international driving permits under the Vienna Convention.

• Since December 15, 2007, wearing a helmet is mandatory on all roads nationwide.

• In 2024, new conditions were set for foreign vehicles entering Vietnam, limiting circulation duration and requiring authorized agency intervention.

Driving in Vietnam requires thorough preparation: international permit, insurance, strict compliance with road safety and local obligations.

Authorities are uncompromising, especially on alcohol, helmets, and valid documents.

Since 2015, the legislation has modernized to better regulate foreign circulation and enhance road safety.

Respecting these rules ensures a trouble-free stay on Vietnamese roads.

All Driving Licenses in Vietnam in 2025: New Regulations and Obligations for Foreigners

Since January 2025, Vietnam has strengthened its road safety laws, with increased fines, a points-based license system, and strict rules for foreign drivers. This article details the latest updates, accepted international licenses, penalties, and regional specificities.

IMPORTANT

If you purchase travel insurance covering the use of a 125cc scooter or motorcycle in Vietnam, ensure this coverage is explicitly stated in your policy.

Several insurance companies offer this coverage, including AXA, Chapka, Europ Assistance, AVI International, ACS, or Assur Travel. Before leaving, always request written confirmation that riding a 125cc is covered in Vietnam.

In case of an accident:

Insurance validity conditions:

• You must have the required driving license: international license with appropriate category (A1 for 125cc), along with your valid French license.

• You must comply with local laws: helmet use, vehicle documents, official rental.

• Failure to meet these conditions may result in denied coverage.

Insurance coverage:

• Medical and hospitalization costs are usually covered up to policy limits.

• Civil liability (damages to others) is often included.

• Assistance often includes repatriation, breakdown help, or medical advance payments.

• Damages to rented scooters are usually not covered unless you opt for additional or local insurance.

Accident procedure:

• Notify your insurer promptly using the emergency number in your policy.

• Provide all necessary documents: license, rental agreement, report, medical bills.

• Follow the insurer's instructions for claim handling and reimbursement.

Key point: without the appropriate license or proper documentation, no insurance will cover any expenses—even medical. Most policies cover medical expenses, assistance, and civil liability, but rarely rental vehicle damages. To travel safely, always verify your coverage before departure and strictly comply with local regulations.

2025 Updates

Points-Based License System

Car license: Valid for 10 years (previously unlimited).

Motorcycle license: Valid for life unless major violations occur.

Point deduction:

• Each license has 12 points.

• Serious violations (speeding, drunk driving) lead to point loss.

• Points can be regained through awareness courses.

Zero Alcohol Tolerance

Allowed blood alcohol level: 0 mg/L (blood or breath).

Sanctions: immediate fine, license suspension (2–4 months), prison in case of fatal accidents.

Pedestrian Rules

Jaywalking: required to raise hand to signal intent.

Fines for disobeying lights or traffic police.

Walking on highways: heavy fines.

Vehicle Technical Inspection

Motorcycles over 5 years old: annual emissions testing.

Cars: regular maintenance required.

Accepted International Licenses

Vienna Convention (1968)

• Only international permits issued under this convention are recognized.

Required documents:

• Valid national license.

• Sworn translation if needed.

Not accepted: 1926 and 1949 permits.

Vietnamese License Categories in 2025

A1 (Vietnam): for motorcycles up to 125cc or electric scooters up to 11 kW.
A (Vietnam): for motorcycles over 125cc or electric over 11 kW, also includes A1 vehicles.

Equivalence and Validity for US and UK Citizens:

• A1 American or British license (125cc) is not automatically valid in Vietnam. You need:

  • An IDP under the Vienna Convention (1968) with the A1 category clearly marked.

  • A valid US or UK national license.

Important:

• American and British A1 licenses only allow up to 125cc, even though Vietnamese A1 previously covered up to 175cc.

• Since 2025, Vietnamese A1 is officially limited to 125cc (or 11 kW electric).

• To ride over 125cc, you need the Vietnamese A license (or a converted old A2).

For US and UK Citizens in Vietnam:

• With a valid A1 license + IDP, you can ride scooters up to 125cc.

• For anything over 125cc, a Vietnamese A license is required (either by conversion or passing the test locally).

Summary:

• A1 (US or UK) + IDP = Legal for up to 125cc.

• Over 125cc = Vietnamese A license required.

• A2 is no longer issued in Vietnam, replaced by A license.

International License Validity in Vietnam in 2025

✅ IDP under Vienna Convention (1968)

The only officially recognized international driving permit in Vietnam.

Features:

• Booklet format, 4–5 pages.

• Information in five languages: English, French, Spanish, Russian, and Chinese.

• Only valid when presented with a valid national license.

How to obtain:

• Must be requested in your home country (e.g., DMV in the US, Post Office or AA in the UK).

• Cannot be obtained in Vietnam.

Eligible countries:
Only signatories of the 1968 Vienna Convention.

❌ IDPs from Geneva Convention (1949) and others

Not accepted in Vietnam.

• IDPs based on the 1949 Geneva Convention (e.g., UK, US, Canada, Australia) are rejected.

• Licenses from unofficial providers (like the IAA in the US) are also invalid.

Consequences:

• Driving with invalid or unrecognized licenses can lead to heavy fines or vehicle seizure.

ASEAN Agreement

Vietnam has a mutual recognition agreement with ASEAN countries.

• In theory, ASEAN national licenses are valid.

• In practice, police often require a 1968 Vienna IDP. Fines may still apply if IDP is missing.

Conversion to a Vietnamese License

For foreign residents:

• Foreigners residing in Vietnam can convert their national license.

• Requires a certified translation and proof of residence.

• Mandatory for long-term stays or expatriates.

Special Cases:

• Residents: US/UK licenses may be converted under certain agreements, subject to eligibility.

• Tourists: Must use a 1968 IDP – even for scooter rentals.

Why Children in Vietnam Don’t Wear Helmets on Scooters

Regulations and legal age:

• Helmet use is mandatory for children aged 6 and above.

• Under 6: not legally required — explains why very young kids are often helmetless.

Enforcement challenges:

• Police find it difficult to verify a child's age on the spot.

Cultural and social factors:

• Parental awareness is inconsistent.

• Some assume short trips don’t require helmets.

• Health concerns (e.g., neck strain) also play a role — though experts refute this.

Cost and accessibility:

• Child helmets can be expensive for lower-income families.

• Free helmet programs in big cities helped boost usage to 85–90%.

• Still limited access in rural areas.

Law enforcement and compliance:

• 90% of adults wear helmets.

• Only 40% of children do.

• Lax enforcement is a key reason.

Summary:

Legal, cultural, financial, and enforcement issues explain low helmet use for children.
Awareness campaigns are helping, but gaps remain.

Regional Penalty Variations

• Hanoi: proposed fines up to 120 million VND for road damage.

• Tourist cities (e.g., HCMC, Da Nang): strict alcohol controls.

Obligations for Foreigners

Personal Vehicles:

• Must get prior authorization through a certified travel agency.

• Maximum stay: 45 days.

Insurance:

• Mandatory insurance covering property and bodily damage.

Accompanied driving:

• Cars: A Vietnamese guide must be present in the vehicle at all times.

Vietnam's Road Modernization

With fines aligned to global standards and stricter controls, Vietnam is working to improve road safety.

Foreigners must:

• Hold a valid 1968 IDP,

• Purchase local insurance, and

• Follow local rules.

Cities like Hanoi are leading with tougher penalties, showing a national push to reduce accidents.

🚦 FAQ – Driving License and Motor Vehicle Regulations in Vietnam

What licenses are accepted in Vietnam for foreigners?

A valid national license plus a 1968 International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.

Is the US or UK license alone sufficient?

No, it must be accompanied by a valid 1968 IDP.

Is helmet use mandatory?

Yes, for all riders and passengers since December 15, 2007.

What are the penalties for driving without a license or helmet?

Fines range from 200,000 to 1,200,000 VND for license issues. Serious violations can result in higher fines or even jail time.

What is the legal alcohol limit?

Zero. Any alcohol before driving is prohibited and punished.

Can foreigners bring their own vehicle to Vietnam?

Yes, but under strict conditions:

• Prior authorization

• Maximum stay of 45 days

• Valid insurance and documentation

• Use of an authorized travel agency

Since when have these rules been in effect?

- IDP recognition: August 2015

- Helmet use: December 15, 2007

- New vehicle rules: March 2024

Do rules vary by province?

Fines are national, but major cities may increase penalties for serious violations.

Is a European or American license valid without an IDP?

No. Only a 1968 IDP is accepted.

Any recent updates for motorbikes?

Helmet use remains mandatory, and only 1 passenger is allowed (except for children under 12 or elderly passengers).

Is Vietnam’s Highway Code the same as in the US or UK?

No. While some basics are similar, there are many local rules that must be learned before driving.

Can you drive in Vietnam with a probationary license?

No. Provisional or learner permits are not recognized. A valid full license plus a 1968 IDP is required.

Do you have to retake the driving test in Vietnam?

Yes, for residents or those with invalid/expired licenses.

How to apply for a Vietnamese license?

You’ll need a Cerfa form, photocopy of your national license, official translation, proof of residence, medical check, and ID photos.

What if your license is canceled in your home country?

You cannot convert it in Vietnam. You must retake the full Vietnamese driving test.

Is license exchange possible?

Yes, for holders of recognized foreign licenses, with translated/legalized documents and proof of residence.

Who can apply for a license in Vietnam?

Any legal resident with a residence permit who passes the test and submits the required documents.

Are motorcycle licenses (A) recognized?

Only with a Vienna 1968 IDP. Otherwise, conversion or a new test is required.

What happens in case of traffic violations?

Violations are penalized through a point system, with fines, suspensions, or cancellation of the license for serious offenses.

Can foreigners drive with a non-converted foreign license?

No, unless it’s a recognized international license under the 1968 Vienna Convention.