Does Vietnam recognize international driving permit?

Yes, the country’s road traffic authorities recognize the International Driver’s Permit (IDP) as a document that will translate your valid home country driver’s license into 12 widely spoken languages. It is also known as an international driver’s license.

It is a document that was approved by the United Nations and recognized by traffic laws worldwide during the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, as a document that will translate every tourist’s driver’s license.

That is why if you want to drive to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, with a motorbike or any other motor vehicle like a scooter in the country offered by car rental agencies, it is highly recommended to get an IDP.

The country accepts foreign drivers with a driver’s license from countries like Australia, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, and more.

If you want to apply for an IDP now, fill out the application form after you click the blue button on this page which says “Apply for IDP.”

Do you need a license to drive in Vietnam?

Your International Driving License or Permit will be considered invalid if not accompanied by your valid home country driver’s license.

Moreover, as most expats that are regularly driving around the country for more than three months, they will need to apply for a Vietnamese driver’s license which costs VND135,000 or 5.54 USD for its base price.

Vietnam’s timeless charm is evident in its tourist attractions with deep cultural, historical, and social meanings. This Southeast Asian country has a wide array of charms to offer both to its foreigners and countrymen. You’ll never run out of places to visit here in Vietnam. From north to south, you’ll find natural landscapes, beautiful beaches, ancient buildings, and religious sites linked to Vietnam’s history and diverse culture.

Ha Giang

The final frontier, or what they call Ha Giang, is a remote place in the most northern region of the country. It is almost 300 km away from Vietnam's capital, Hanoi. Your journey to this province will make you travel back in time and feel the atmosphere of remote towns and villages. Since there is limited transportation going to the northern part of Vietnam, it’s best to rent a car. This is a dream come true for travelers eager to go on a road trip and adventure.

Ha Long

Your northern loop trail would not be complete if you can’t go to Ha Long. Ha Long Bay is one of the popular tourist destinations for its renowned spectacular scenery, islands and caves, and traditional floating villages. You will find raw, mystical, and undeniable beauty of the view and the bay. You can get a tour boat or stay on the Cat Ba Island to fully experience this seascape.

What are the best places in Central Vietnam?

After traveling to the northern part of Vietnam, it’s time to go sightseeing around the country’s central highland region, which houses the most captivating historical sites, Buddhist temples, rich landscape, and even stunning waterfalls.

Dalat

Head further to secret highland known for its cool climate and mystery. Dalat is famous for its countryside charm and seaside destination. This city is also ideal for sports enthusiasts, allowing hiking and trekking and offering a wide array of adventures to do.

Hoi An

If you’re looking for a place that will bring you to ancient times, then this place is best for you. Hoi An’s walled city is the home for one of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites called Ancient Town. The townscape, architectural buildings, and footbridges have not changed so be sure to bring your camera to capture the beauty of the past. If you also wanted to see pagodas and lantern-lights, thousands of lanterns are set aflame in the city’s heart in the Bon River.

What are the best places in Southern Vietnam?

This region is the home of the commercial and busy city in Vietnam which is Ho Chi Minh. It is the modern metropolis so prepare yourself with crowded places and streets, dramatic and chaotic roads, and of course, traffic. Be sure to rent your own car and have an international driving permit to be able to drive around the places legally.

Mekong Delta

Known in the local area as the river of nine dragons as the Mekong is split into nine branches, crisscrossing landscapes before reaching the sea, you’ll find on-the-water villages.

Phu Quoc

Do you see how diverse are the places and the culture in Vietnam? This is a place that has everything starting from the ancient buildings and ruins, to beautiful landscapes, to cultural and religious sites, and now we’ll go to the pure white beaches and clear water.

What Are the Most Important Driving Rules in Vietnam?

Vietnam is a country brimming with natural beauty, historical marvels, and cultural gems. You'll find it easier and more comfortable to explore these enchanting places if you rent a car and follow the driving rules in Vietnam. This way, you avoid the hassle of waiting for buses in long queues.

Drunk driving is prohibited

As part of the road safety laws in Vietnam, once the driver’s breath or blood shows any level of concentration, drivers will be penalized and should pay a fine between VND 1 million ($39) and VND 3 million ($117). As a tourist, you need to be very responsible when driving in another country and even your own.

No use of earphones and phone while driving

The use of cell phones and earphones while driving is prohibited. If you violate this, you need to pay a fine of VND 600,000-800,000 and your driving license will be revoked for up to 3 months.

No horns at night

You are not allowed to use your horn between 10 pm to 5 am just for fun or for no reason at all. This will cause public disturbance to residences nearby.

Drive on the right roadside

Driving in Vietnam on the right side of road traffic is a must. Drivers should drive on the right side of the road. If you don’t follow this driving rule, Vietnamese drivers will notify law officials, or if you evade arrest—you could get into road traffic accidents.

Always use safety belts

The driver sitting in the front seat is required to wear safety belts. Under the Government’s Decree 46/2016, it is also mandatory for passengers to put on their seat belts in the back seats.

Follow the speed limits

The speed limit is 40-60 km/h (25-37 mph) on rural roads, while 30-40 km/h (19-25 mph) is the speed limit in urban areas. Observe the proper limit for your car speed to avoid violations.

Pay attention to the traffic signal

A green light means “to proceed” while red light means “to stop.” Amber light means stop behind the stop line. If you don’t pay attention to the traffic signals, road traffic accidents are bound to happen.