Travelling Vietnam by car offers unparalleled freedom from winding coastal roads to verdant highland passes. However, navigating the licensing maze is crucial before you hit the highway. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to rent and drive legally in Vietnam using your international driving license.

Renting a Car in Vietnam: Insurance and Documentation

To rent a car smoothly

• 1. Choose a Reputable Agency

  • International chains (Avis, Hertz) vs. local providers compare reviews and policies.

• 2. Prepare Documentation

  • Passport and visa/work permit pages.

  • Valid driving license, International Driving License or Vietnamese license.

  • Credit card for deposit.

• 3. Understand Insurance Options

  • Third Party Liability: Covers damage to others mandatory by law.

  • Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Reduces your liability for vehicle damage.

  • Theft Protection: Essential in urban areas.

• 4. Review the Rental Agreement

  • Check mileage limits, fuel policy, and cross border restrictions.

  • Photograph any existing damage before departure.

Driving in Vietnam: Road Rules and Safety Tips

Vietnam’s roads can be an adventure in themselves:

• Traffic Laws

  • Drive on the right hand side.

  • Seat belts required for driver and front passenger.

• Local Driving Customs

  • Expect motorbikes to weave through lanes.

  • Use horn sparingly short taps signal "I’m here".

• Road Conditions

  • Highways are generally well maintained; rural roads may be narrow, unpaved.

  • Watch for livestock, bicycles, and pedestrians.

• Safety Gear and Emergency Contacts

  • Ensure the car has a first aid kit and warning triangle.

  • General emergency: 113 (Police), 114 (Fire), 115 (Ambulance).

Safety Hack: Plan your daily driving legs to avoid night travel outside major cities.

Why You Need a Valid Driving License in Vietnam

• Driving without a recognized license in Vietnam isn’t just risky it’s illegal. Here’s why you should never hit the road unprepared:

• Legal Compliance

  • Vietnamese law mandates that anyone driving on public roads holds a valid license recognized by local authorities.

• Avoiding Fines and Penalties

  • Traffic police checkpoints are common; fines for unlicensed driving can exceed $150 USD, plus impoundment.

• Insurance Validity

  • Rental car insurance is void if you lack a proper license, leaving you personally liable for damages.

• Peace of Mind

  • A valid license ensures you can focus on the adventure, not paperwork.

Overview of Vietnam’s Driving License Rules

Vietnam issues several classes of driving licenses, but for most travelers, the key ones are

• Class A1: Motorbikes up to 50cc.

• Class A2: Motorbikes over 50cc.

• Class B1: Cars with up to 9 seats.

• Class B2: Commercial vehicles.

• Class C and above: Heavy trucks and buses.

Who Needs a Vietnamese License?

• Foreign tourists on short visits (less than 3 months) may drive with a recognized foreign license or International Driving License.

• Long term residents (work permit or visa more than 3 months) must convert to a local license.
  

Recent Updates to Note

• Stricter enforcement on license validity at checkpoints.

• Increased cooperation with international license issuing authorities.

Converting Your Foreign License to a Vietnamese License

If your visa extends beyond three months or your country has an exchange agreement, conversion simplifies long term stays:

• 1. Check Eligibility

  • Confirm whether your country has a direct conversion treaty.

• 2. Gather Documents

  • Original passport and visa/work permit.

  • Valid foreign driving license (photocopies and notarized translation).

  • Passport size photos (3×4 cm).

  • Health certificate from a licensed clinic.

• 3. Submit Application

  • Visit the local Department of Transportation (DoT) office in major cities (Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang).
    

• 4. Pay Fees

  • Typically ranges from 200,000–500,000 VND ($8–$20 USD).

• 5. Receive Your License

  • Processing can take 1–2 weeks.

Insider Tip: Use a local agent or expat service to handle paperwork and speed up the process.

Applying for a Full Vietnamese Driving License

If conversion isn’t available, or you prefer having a local license:

• Application Requirements

  • Medical check up certificate.

  • Theory exam (multiple choice, 30 questions).

  • Practical exam (maneuvering and on road test).

• Study Materials

  • Official handbook in English, downloadable from the DoT website.

  • Mock tests available through local driving schools.

• Exam Fees and Timeline

  • Total cost: 1,000,000–1,500,000 VND ($40–$60 USD).

  • Expect 4–6 weeks from application to license issuance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use my home country license without an International Driving License?

• Only if you’re from a country with a Vietnam exchange agreement and have the required translation.

2. How long does it take to convert my license?

• Typically 1–2 weeks, plus processing delays during peak seasons.

3. What if I’m only in Vietnam for a short visit?

• Use an International Driving License plus original license for stays up to 90 days.

4. Are there grace periods or exemptions?

• Some agencies grant a 7 day grace period before enforcing license checks, but don’t rely on this.
  

How to Obtain an IDL

Applying for an International Driver's License (IDL) is a straightforward process that allows you to legally drive in foreign countries. Here's how you can obtain one:

• Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for obtaining an International Driver's License. Requirements may but the most important one is that you must have your national or local driver's license issued by your county or state of origin, and it should be valid.

• Complete Application: Obtain the necessary application form from following the next link: https://www.international-license.com/pages/apply-now

• Pay Fees: Pay the required fees for processing your IDL application. Fees may vary depending on the issuing authority and processing time.

• Submit Application: Submit your completed application form along with any supporting documents following their specific instructions.

• Receive IDL: Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your International Driver's License.

Remember to carry both your international driving permit and your original driver's license whenever you're behind the wheel. Double-check that your details match those on your valid driver's license to avoid any discrepancies. Once you have completed the application form and gathered all the necessary documents, submit them to the licensing authority along with any applicable fees.

APPLY HERE!

Cost of an International Driver's License

The costs of obtaining an International Driver's License are the following:

1 YEAR VALIDITY: USD 39,99
2 YEARS VALIDITY: USD 54,99
3 YEARS VALIDITY: USD 69,99

USA SHIPPING
USPS 6-10 DAYS: FREE
EXPRESS 3-4 DAYS : USD 15
OVERNIGHT 2-3 DAYS: USD 35

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING
EXPRESS INTERNATIONAL 4-8 DAYS : USD 29.99

As of 2025

Before applying for an IDL, it's essential to check the fee schedule on the official website https://www.international-license.com/pages/pricing-for-the-international-drivers-document

Conclusion

Embarking on a self drive journey in Vietnam offers unparalleled flexibility to explore at your own pace. From coastal highways to winding mountain passes, having the right driving license whether an International Driving License, a converted foreign license, or a full Vietnamese license is your key to a hassle free adventure.

Plan ahead:

• Verify license requirements for your nationality.

• Apply for an International Driving License before you leave home.

• Consider converting if your stay exceeds three months.

• Always review rental agreements and insurance details.

With proper preparation and respect for local laws, you’ll be free to focus on the road ahead and the unforgettable experiences that await in Vietnam. Safe travels!.