Driving License

Driving a vehicle in Vietnam may initially seem daunting, but after a few days, the allure of exploring the country in your own way becomes irresistible. Whether driving a car, riding a motorbike, or even cycling, you can experience Vietnam from a unique perspective. However, one of the most common concerns is whether your driving license meets legal requirements.

Photo: daotaolaixe.vn

For permanent residents or those relocating to Vietnam for work, study, or other long-term stays, you must obtain a valid Vietnamese driving license issued by the provincial or national public transportation service under the Ministry of Transport.

For temporary visitors, it is strongly advised that you possess an International Driving Permit (IDP), which can easily be obtained in your home country and subsequently converted into a Vietnamese license. Law enforcement can confiscate your vehicle for up to 90 days if you fail to present a valid license.

Who Can Apply?

Individuals holding a valid Vietnamese residence permit or a visa valid for at least three months, coupled with a valid driving license, can apply for a license conversion.

The Importance of Obtaining a License

Driving without a valid license is strongly discouraged; you must either possess a Vietnamese driving license or a temporary license converted from your IDP. Penalties for operating a vehicle without a license can be severe, ranging from three to ten years if an accident occurs, and potentially up to twenty years if the accident results in a fatality.

Apply for a New Vietnamese Driving License

To apply for a Vietnamese driving license for a car or motorbike, contact the Centre for Automotive Training and Mechanism at 83A Ly Thuong Kiet (Hanoi) or the Office of Transportation at 252 Ly Chinh Thang (Ho Chi Minh City).

Convert Your Valid License to a Vietnamese One

If you need a temporary driver's license or wish to convert your current license to a Vietnamese equivalent, contact the Office of Traffic & Public Works at 16 Cao Ba Quat Street (Hanoi) or 252 Ly Chinh Thang (Ho Chi Minh City).

Documents Required

To apply or convert your existing driver license to a Vietnamese one, you will need to submit the following documents:

• One copy of your passport including the photo page and the visa page (both passport and visa must be valid).
• Two copies of your existing driving license, complete with a translated and notarized version (from a legitimate public notary).
• Three passport-sized photos (please check specific photo requirements).
• A filled application form (download the driving license application form from the official website).
• A processing fee of approximately 35,000 VND (about USD 1.5).

Processing Time

Processing time for a driving license application is typically around five working days. Applications and required documents can be submitted at the Department of Transport in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, as indicated above.