At a Glance
- Legal requirement: Foreign drivers must carry their valid home-country licence plus a 1968-format International Driving Permit (IDP).
- 1949-format IDPs are not accepted in Vietnam.
- US/Canada travellers: These countries issue only the 1949-format IDP, which Vietnam does not recognize. For longer stays, a Vietnamese licence conversion is necessary.
- Police enforcement: Expect roadside checks. Driving without proper documents can lead to fines or impoundment.
- Insurance: Claims may be denied if you drive without the correct licence and IDP.
Do I Need an International Driving Permit in Vietnam?
Yes. To drive legally in Vietnam in 2025, you must carry:
- Your original, valid home-country driving licence, and
- A valid 1968-format IDP.
Vietnam acceded to the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic in 2015. That means only the 1968 IDP is valid. The 1949 IDP—commonly issued in the US and Canada—is not recognized.
Rental company policies may add requirements (minimum age, deposits, driving experience), but these do not replace the legal obligation: 1968 IDP + original licence.
Legal Recognition in Vietnam
- International basis: Vietnam is bound by the 1968 Vienna Convention, which sets the model for the IDP.
- National rules: Ministry of Transport Circular 29/2015/TT-BGTVT regulates IDP use. Your IDP must always be carried alongside your original licence.
- Penalties: Driving without a proper licence/IDP violates Decree 100/2019 and can result in fines of 4–6 million VND and possible vehicle impoundment.
- Insurance: Compulsory liability and private insurance may not pay claims if you were unlicensed at the time of an accident.
Who Needs a 1968 IDP?
- Drivers from 1968 Convention countries (EU/EEA, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Switzerland): Must carry their original licence + 1968 IDP.
- Drivers from 1949-only countries (United States, Canada): The 1949 IDP is not valid. Options are licence conversion or not driving.
- Drivers from non-party countries: No treaty recognition. You must apply for a Vietnamese licence to drive.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Arriving with the wrong IDP format (1949).
- Thinking the IDP replaces your licence—it never does.
- Renting a motorcycle without the correct motorcycle entitlement on both your home licence and IDP.
- Forgetting supporting documents (passport, visa, insurance, registration).
- Letting your domestic licence expire—this invalidates your IDP.
Read our full Vietnam driving guide to avoid these and other common mistakes
How to Get an International Driving Permit for Vietnam
To drive legally in Vietnam, you need the 1968-format International Driving Permit (IDP). With the International Drivers Association (IDA), every permit automatically includes both the 1968 Vienna and 1949 Geneva formats, so you’re covered in 240+ countries worldwide — including Vietnam.
Why Choose IDA?
- Dual-convention coverage: Both 1968 and 1949 formats included in one permit.
- Maximum acceptance: Valid in 240+ countries — more than any other provider.
- Proven reliability: 1M+ travelers served since 2019 with a 99.8% global acceptance rate.
- Professional service: 24/7 support in 30 languages, unlimited replacements, and a money-back guarantee.
- Fast, secure processing: Apply online in minutes and receive your digital copy quickly, with the printed booklet shipped worldwide.
What You’ll Need to Apply
- A valid driver’s licence from your home country.
- A passport-style photo.
- A completed IDA online application form.
Validity
- IDA permits are valid for up to three years (depending on your licence), but never beyond the expiry of your home-country licence.
Important Reminders for Vietnam
- You must always carry both your original licence and your IDP.
- Ensure your IDP clearly lists the vehicle categories you are entitled to drive (e.g., cars, motorcycles).
- IDPs are translations and verification documents — they do not replace your home licence.
👉 Apply now with the International Drivers Association to secure your dual-convention IDP and drive in Vietnam with complete confidence.
International Driving Permit Checklist for Vietnam
- Confirm your country issues the 1968-format IDP.
- Apply through IDA for dual-convention coverage.
- Verify your IDP lists the vehicle categories you intend to drive.
- Ensure your home licence is valid for your entire trip.
- Carry supporting documents: passport, visa, insurance, and registration.
FAQs About Driving in Vietnam
1) Do I need an IDP to drive in Vietnam?
Yes, you need your original licence and a 1968-format IDP.
2) Which IDP does Vietnam accept?
Only the 1968 Vienna IDP. The 1949 version is not valid.
3) Can I drive with just my foreign licence?
No. The IDP must accompany your licence.
4) What if I’m from the US or Canada?
You cannot obtain a 1968 IDP at home. In Vietnam, your 1949 IDP is invalid. Either convert your licence for long stays or avoid driving.
5) What are the penalties for driving without the correct IDP?
Fines of 4–6 million VND, possible vehicle impoundment, and denied insurance claims.
6) Can I get an IDP in Vietnam?
No. Vietnam issues IDPs only to holders of Vietnamese licences. Foreigners must obtain the IDP before travel.
7) How long is a 1968 IDP valid for in Vietnam?
Up to three years depending on your home country’s rules, but never beyond your licence expiry.
8) Can I ride a motorcycle with a car licence and IDP?
Only if your licence and IDP both include motorcycle entitlement.
9) Are digital “IDPs” valid?
No. Only the physical treaty-standard IDP booklet is valid.
Key Takeaway
To drive legally in Vietnam, carry your original licence plus a 1968-format IDP. The 1949 IDP (common in the US and Canada) is not valid. Secure your dual-convention IDP with the International Drivers Association to ensure compliance and peace of mind.
India
United States
Spain
France
Cayman Islands
Indonesia
Netherlands
Australia
Saudi Arabia
Ireland
Belgium
Canada
Italy
