Introduction
Get ready for the ultimate motorcycle adventure in Vietnam! But before you rev up your engine, let’s address a crucial question: Can foreign riders hit the road without a license? Join us as we delve into Vietnam’s driving regulations to find out if your dream ride is legally possible. Let’s ensure you’re equipped with the right information for an epic journey through Vietnam’s scenic landscapes and cultural wonders.
International Licenses in Vietnam: Validity and Operational Mechanics
In Vietnam, possessing a Vietnamese driving license is compulsory for individuals riding motorcycles with an engine capacity exceeding 50cc. Specifically, an A1 license is required for motorcycles under 175cc, while an A2 license is necessary for motorcycles over 175cc. It’s important to note that foreign national driving licenses are not recognized as valid documents for driving in Vietnam.
If you’re wondering whether an international license is valid for riding in Vietnam, the answer is both straightforward and nuanced. Vietnam recognizes international driving permits (IDPs) issued by signatory countries of the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. This means that if your country is a party to the convention and you possess a valid IDP, you are generally allowed to ride a motorcycle in Vietnam without the need for a Vietnamese driving license.
According to Circular 29/2025/TT-BGTVT, individuals with IDPs from Vienna Convention countries must carry both the IDP and their national driving license corresponding to the vehicle class being driven, and abide by Vietnamese road traffic laws.
Furthermore, if an IDP holder violates traffic laws in Vietnam and faces temporary suspension, the suspension period cannot exceed their allowed residency period in Vietnam.
It’s important to note that IDPs issued by Vietnam are not valid within the country, and individuals with Vietnamese-issued IDPs driving in other Vienna Convention countries must carry both the IDP and their national driving license, while adhering to the host country’s traffic laws.
To use an international driver’s license in Vietnam, the following conditions must be met:
- The IDP must be issued by a country that is a member of the 1968 Vienna Convention and recognized by Vietnam.
- The user must be a foreign national with a short-term stay in Vietnam (less than 3 months)
- A valid national driver’s license corresponding to the IDP’s validity period must also be carried.
It’s important to note that Vietnamese nationals, dual nationals, or foreign nationals residing in Vietnam for more than 3 months cannot use an international driving license in Vietnam. Instead, they are required to convert to a Vietnamese driving license for legal driving in the country.
Converting Your National Driving License to a Vietnamese Motorbike License
To convert your national driving license to a local Vietnamese motorbike driving license, follow these steps:
- If you intend to reside, work, or study in Vietnam for 3 months or longer, or if you entered Vietnam with a foreign-issued international or national driving license and wish to use it in Vietnam, you must apply for a corresponding Vietnamese driving license.
- Prepare notarized copies of your passport, visa, and home country motorbike driving license. This process typically takes 1-2 working days in Vietnam and can be done at any notarizing office. Afterward, expect to wait 7-10 days for the issuance of your Vietnam motorbike driving license.
- If you do not possess any driving license, you must pass both theory and driving tests to operate a motorcycle. The theory test, consisting of 20 questions displayed on a computer screen in Vietnamese, requires a minimum passing score of 18. Unfortunately, interpreters are not allowed during the test, so proficiency in spoken and written Vietnamese is necessary.
In practice, some companies offer services for obtaining or converting Vietnamese driving licenses. These services typically require copies of your passport, resident card/ visa, and original driver’s license. However, such services come at a high cost, ranging from approximately USD 150 (for under 175cc or A1 license) to USD 350 (for over 175cc or A2 license).
Current Situation:
Traditionally, language barriers made traffic police in Vietnam hesitant to stop foreigners for license checks. However, with the emergence of younger officers fluent in English and the accessibility of translation tools on smartphones, communication obstacles are diminishing.
While encounters with traffic police may still occur, particularly with English-speaking officers, many foreign riders navigate Vietnam’s roads without being stopped for license verification. However, it remains crucial for riders to carry the required documentation, including their international driving permit and national license, to comply with local regulations and avoid potential legal issues.
Conclusion
As the road beckons and the thrill of adventure awaits, Vietnam promises an unforgettable experience for motorcycle enthusiasts from around the globe. From navigating the intricacies of international driving permits to embracing the challenge of converting national licenses, we've unveiled the roadmap to an epic journey on two wheels.
At Frontier Travel Vietnam, we're not just about tours; we're about crafting immersive adventures that redefine the meaning of exploration. Whether you're a seasoned rider seeking adrenaline-fueled escapades or a curious traveler yearning to uncover Vietnam's hidden treasures, our team is here to turn your dreams into reality.
So, why wait? Book your motorcycle odyssey with Frontier Travel Vietnam today and unleash the spirit of adventure as you traverse Vietnam's majestic landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural tapestry. Let's ride together towards a horizon filled with endless possibilities and unforgettable moments. Your adventure awaits—let's make it legendary!
