What Are the Requirement for a Foreign Driving License in Vietnam

1. Validity of Foreign Driving Licenses

Based on Circular 29/2015/TT-BGTVT, there are currently two types of driving licenses: international driving licenses and national driving licenses. In which:

• An international driving license is issued to citizens of all countries that are members of the Vienna Convention. Accordingly, foreigners with this license can use it to participate in traffic in Vietnam.
• A national driving license is only valid for use within the territory of the issuing country. Therefore, foreign nationals' national driving licenses cannot be used directly in Vietnam.

=> Foreigners who want to drive in Vietnam must go through the procedures to exchange it for a corresponding Vietnamese driving license.

However, not all foreigners are allowed to exchange their driving licenses for use in Vietnam. According to Article 33 of Circular 12/2017/TT-BGTVT, those who are allowed to exchange driving licenses include:

• Foreigners residing, working, or studying in Vietnam, holding a diplomatic ID card, a consular ID card, a temporary residence card, a residence card, a stay card, or a permanent residence card for a period of 3 months or more, and having a valid national driving license.
• Foreign tourists driving foreign-registered vehicles into Vietnam, having a valid national driving license.

2. Driving License Categories

Vietnam has several categories of driving licenses, each corresponding to different types of vehicles:

• A1: Motorcycles and mopeds with an engine capacity of up to 50cc.
• A2: Motorcycles and mopeds with an engine capacity exceeding 50cc.
• B1: Cars with an engine capacity of up to 3,000cc.
• B2: Cars with an engine capacity exceeding 3,000cc.
• C: Trucks with a maximum weight of 3.5 tons or less.
• D: Buses with a maximum weight of 8 tons or less.
• E: Trucks and buses with a maximum weight exceeding 8 tons.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Age: The minimum age requirements for each category vary. For example, the minimum age to obtain a Class B1 license is 18, while the minimum age for a Class C or D license is 20.
• Medical Examination: Applicants must pass a medical examination to ensure their physical and mental fitness to drive.
• Driving Test: A practical driving test is required to assess driving skills and knowledge of traffic rules.

Foreigners and Driving Licenses:

• Exchange Requirements: Foreigners who wish to drive in Vietnam must exchange their national driving license for a Vietnamese one, except for those with international driving licenses.
• Eligibility Criteria: The eligibility criteria for exchanging a foreign driving license are similar to those for Vietnamese citizens.
• Temporary Licenses: In some cases, foreign tourists may be able to obtain a temporary driving license for a limited period, but this is subject to specific regulations.

Understanding the different driving license categories and the corresponding eligibility criteria is essential for foreigners planning to drive in Vietnam.

3. Temporary Import of Vehicles

Regulations and Procedures:

• Customs Clearance: Foreigners who wish to temporarily import a vehicle into Vietnam must go through customs clearance procedures.
• Documentation: Required documents typically include a passport, visa, vehicle registration, and proof of ownership.
• Customs Duties and Taxes: Temporary import of vehicles may involve the payment of customs duties and taxes, which can vary depending on the type of vehicle and the duration of the stay.

Duration and Restrictions:

• Time Limits: There are usually time limits for the temporary import of vehicles, and extensions may require additional approval.
• Restrictions: Certain types of vehicles may be subject to additional restrictions or requirements for temporary import.

Re-export Requirements:

• Time Limit: Vehicles must be re-exported out of Vietnam within the specified timeframe.
• Customs Clearance: A final customs clearance process is required upon re-export.

Considerations:

• Insurance: Ensure that your vehicle has the necessary insurance coverage for driving in Vietnam.
• Traffic Laws: Familiarize yourself with Vietnamese traffic laws and regulations.
• Local Customs: Be aware of local customs and practices related to driving in Vietnam.

By understanding the regulations and procedures for temporary vehicle import, foreigners can ensure a smooth and legal experience when driving in Vietnam.

4. Renting a Vehicle in Vietnam

Car Rental Companies:

• Availability: There are numerous car rental companies operating in Vietnam, offering a variety of vehicle options.
• Locations: Car rental agencies can be found in major cities and tourist destinations.

Rental Requirements:

• Age: The minimum age for renting a car in Vietnam is generally 21, but this may vary depending on the rental company and the type of vehicle.
• Driver's License: You will need a valid driver's license from your home country or a Vietnamese driving license.
• Identification: Provide identification documents such as a passport or visa.
• Deposit: A security deposit may be required, which is typically refunded upon return of the vehicle in good condition.

Vehicle Types:

• Options: Car rental companies offer a range of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, vans, and convertibles.
• Consider Your Needs: Choose a vehicle that suits your travel needs, group size, and driving preferences.

Insurance:

• Mandatory Insurance: Third-party liability insurance is mandatory in Vietnam.
• Additional Coverage: Consider purchasing additional insurance coverage, such as collision damage waiver (CDW) or theft protection.

Fuel Policy:

• Full-to-Empty: Most car rental companies have a full-to-empty fuel policy, meaning you will be responsible for refueling the vehicle before returning it.
• Prepaid Fuel: Some companies offer prepaid fuel options for convenience.

Road Conditions:

• Varying Quality: Road conditions in Vietnam can vary, with some areas having well-maintained roads and others with more challenging conditions.
• Safe Driving: Exercise caution and be aware of local driving practices and road rules.

By understanding the requirements and considerations for renting a vehicle in Vietnam, you can plan your trip effectively and enjoy a comfortable and safe driving experience.

5. Driving Regulations and Traffic Laws

Traffic Flow:

• Right-Hand Traffic: Driving is on the right side of the road in Vietnam.
• Priority Yielding: Vehicles on the right typically have priority, except at intersections with traffic lights.

Speed Limits:

• Urban Areas: Speed limits in urban areas generally range from 40 km/h to 60 km/h.
• Highway: Speed limits on highways can vary, but typically range from 80 km/h to 120 km/h.

Seat Belts and Helmets:

• Mandatory: Wearing seat belts is mandatory for all passengers in a vehicle.
• Helmet Requirement: Motorcycle riders must wear helmets.

Alcohol and Drug Consumption:

• Prohibited: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited.
• Penalties: Penalties for drunk driving can be severe, including fines and imprisonment.

Traffic Signs and Signals:

• Familiarity: Familiarize yourself with Vietnamese traffic signs and signals, which may differ from those in your home country.
• Yielding and Right of Way: Understand the rules for yielding and right of way at intersections and roundabouts.

Driving Etiquette:

• Courtesy: Be courteous to other drivers and pedestrians.
• Horn Use: Use your horn sparingly and only when necessary.
• Parking: Adhere to parking regulations and avoid parking in unauthorized areas.

Additional Considerations:

• Road Conditions: Be aware of varying road conditions, especially in rural areas.
• Traffic Congestion: Traffic congestion can be heavy in major cities, especially during peak hours.
• Police Checks: Be prepared for random police checks and have your documents ready.

By understanding and following these driving regulations and traffic laws, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience in Vietnam.

6. International Driving Permit (IDP)

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is issued by the competent authorities of countries (including administrative regions) that are party to the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. It serves as a translation of a national driving license into multiple languages.

According to Circular 29/2015 of the Ministry of Transport, individuals with an IDP issued by countries participating in the Vienna Convention, when driving motor vehicles on Vietnamese territory, must carry both the IDP and their national driving license corresponding to the vehicle category being driven, and must comply with Vietnamese traffic laws.

Vietnam issues IDPs to Vietnamese citizens and foreigners with permanent residence in Vietnam who hold a Vietnamese driving license made of PET material and still valid.

If a person with an IDP violates Vietnamese traffic laws and has their IDP revoked for a certain period, the revocation period shall not exceed the period for which the driver is permitted to reside in Vietnamese territory.

Furthermore, this circular clearly stipulates that an IDP issued by Vietnam is not valid for use within Vietnamese territory. Moreover, individuals with an IDP issued by Vietnam, when driving a motor vehicle in a country that is party to the Vienna Convention, must carry both the IDP and their national driving license and comply with the traffic laws of the host country.

IDPs are not issued in the following cases:

• The national driving license is erased, damaged, or lacks the necessary information, or there are discrepancies in the identification.
• The national driving license is not issued by a competent authority as prescribed.
• In cases where an individual is found to have committed fraud to obtain an IDP, erase or falsify information on an issued IDP, in addition to having the IDP revoked by the issuing authority, that individual shall also be held liable before the law and shall not be issued an IDP within a period of 3 years from the date the violation is discovered.

There is another type of international driving permit called the IAA (International Automobile Association International Driving Permit). This is an internationally recognized driving permit that allows the holder to drive abroad. This license is issued by the International Automobile Association (IAA), a non-governmental organization based in the United States.

The IAA international driving permit will contain the information of the holder along with a list of countries that accept this type of permit and is translated into 8 different languages so that the police of these countries can read and understand the content of this international driving permit.

In addition to the IAA international driving license booklet with complete and detailed information, the user is also issued a plastic card with a clear scan of the signature and photo of the license holder.

The validity period of the IAA international driving license depends on the user's request, and can be registered for a period of 3 years, 5 years, 10 years or even 20 years. However, the IAA international driving license is not valid for use in Vietnam.

Key Points and Analysis

• Two Types of IDPs: Vietnam recognizes both IDPs issued by countries that are party to the Vienna Convention and IDPs issued by the IAA. However, only the former is valid for driving in Vietnam.
• Requirements for Using IDP in Vietnam: Individuals with an IDP must carry both the IDP and their national driving license.
• Issuance of IDPs by Vietnam: Vietnam issues IDPs to its citizens and permanent residents for use in other countries.
• Restrictions on IDP Usage: IDPs issued by Vietnam are not valid for driving within Vietnam.
• Penalties for Violations: Violators of traffic laws while holding an IDP may face penalties including revocation of the IDP.
• IAA IDP: The IAA IDP is not valid in Vietnam, despite being recognized internationally.

In essence, while an IDP can be a useful document for Vietnamese citizens and foreign residents to drive in other countries, it cannot be used as a substitute for a Vietnamese driving license within Vietnam.

7. Long-Term Residency and Driving in Vietnam

Driving License Requirements for Long-Term Residents:

• Exchange of National License: Foreigners with long-term residency visas in Vietnam, such as permanent residency, may be eligible to exchange their national driving licenses for a Vietnamese driving license.
• Eligibility Criteria: The specific eligibility criteria may vary, but generally include having a valid national driving license, meeting the minimum age requirements, and passing a driving test.
• Benefits: Exchanging a national driving license for a Vietnamese one can provide more flexibility and convenience for long-term residents.

Temporary Import of Vehicles:

• Permitted for Residents: Long-term residents may be allowed to temporarily import their personal vehicles into Vietnam for a specified period.
• Customs Procedures: The process for temporary vehicle import involves customs clearance and may require certain documentation.
• Regulations: Adhere to the specific regulations regarding temporary vehicle import, including customs duties, insurance requirements, and time limits.

Driving Insurance:

• Mandatory Third-Party Liability: Third-party liability insurance is mandatory for all vehicles in Vietnam.
• Additional Coverage: Consider purchasing additional insurance coverage, such as comprehensive insurance or collision damage waiver (CDW), for added protection.

Local Driving Practices:

• Familiarity: Familiarize yourself with local driving practices and customs to ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
• Defensive Driving: Be prepared for potential hazards and practice defensive driving techniques.

By understanding the specific requirements and regulations for long-term residents, you can ensure a smooth and legal driving experience in Vietnam.

8. Conclusion