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An IDP is essential when driving in Vietnam

Rent Cars with Ease & Avoid Fines – Many countries and rental agencies require an International Driving Permit (IDP). Get yours in minutes and travel worry-free!

Recognized in over 150 countries, an IDP allows you to drive legally and confidently abroad. With an international driving permit, you see the world on multi-country trips that span borders, cultures, & beyond. Get informed about countries with IDP limitations.

Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, an international driver's license is an essential travel document that lets you rent a car, navigate foreign roads, and explore the world legally.

Translations in 12 languages make communicating with foreign officials and rental companies easier. This added convenience ensures you can navigate foreign roads safely and confidently.

Think of all the places you can go with one international driving permit! Valid for up to three years, it's the best choice for frequent travelers. Plan, explore, and stay longer - our IDP has you covered.

Obtain an IDP with full coverage and multiple guarantees. With our money-back policy and unlimited replacement, getting an international driver's license doesn't have to break the bank.

Do you have a question or need help with lost IDP? Reach out whenever and wherever; with our 24/7 customer service, you have a team ready to assist you with any international driving needs.

Wherever you are in the world, you will receive your IDP quickly and hassle-free. Our express shipping makes your international travel plans smoother, offering ultimate convenience.

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At a Glance

  • Legal requirement: Foreign drivers must carry their valid home-country licence plus a 1968-format International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • 1949-format International Driving Permits are not accepted in Vietnam.
  • US/Canada travellers: These countries issue only the 1949-format International Driving Permit, 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 International Driving Permit.

Do I Need an International Driving Permit in Vietnam?

Yes. To drive legally in Vietnam, you must carry:

  • Your original, valid home-country driving licence, and
  • A valid 1968-format International Driving Permit.

Vietnam acceded to the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic in 2015. That means only the 1968 International Driving Permit is valid. The 1949 International Driving Permit 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 International Driving Permit + original licence.

  • International basis: Vietnam is bound by the 1968 Vienna Convention, which sets the model for the International Driving Permit.
  • National rules: Ministry of Transport Circular 29/2015/TT-BGTVT regulates International Driving Permit use. Your International Driving Permit must always be carried alongside your original licence.
  • Penalties: Driving without a proper licence/International Driving Permit 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 International Driving Permit?

  • Drivers from 1968 Convention countries (EU/EEA, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Switzerland): Must carry their original licence + 1968 International Driving Permit.
  • Drivers from 1949-only countries (United States, Canada): The 1949 International Driving Permit 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 International Driving Permit format (1949).
  • Thinking the International Driving Permit replaces your licence it never does.
  • Renting a motorcycle without the correct motorcycle entitlement on both your home licence and International Driving Permit.
  • Forgetting supporting documents (passport, visa, insurance, registration).
  • Letting your domestic licence expire this invalidates your International Driving Permit.

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 International Driving Permit.
  • Ensure your International Driving Permit clearly lists the vehicle categories you are entitled to drive (e.g., cars, motorcycles).
  • International Driving Permits are translations and verification documents — they do not replace your home licence.

👉 Apply now with the International Drivers Association to secure your dual-convention International Driving Permit and drive in Vietnam with complete confidence.

International Driving Permit Checklist for Vietnam

  • Confirm your country issues the 1968-format International Driving Permit.
  • Apply through IDA for dual-convention coverage.
  • Verify your International Driving Permit 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 International Driving Permit to drive in Vietnam?
Yes, you need your original licence and a 1968-format International Driving Permit.

2) Which International Driving Permit does Vietnam accept?
Only the 1968 Vienna International Driving Permit. The 1949 version is not valid.

3) Can I drive with just my foreign licence?
No. The International Driving Permit must accompany your licence.

4) What if I’m from the US or Canada?
You cannot obtain a 1968 International Driving Permit at home. In Vietnam, your 1949 International Driving Permit is invalid. Either convert your licence for long stays or avoid driving.

5) What are the penalties for driving without the correct International Driving Permit?
Fines of 4–6 million VND, possible vehicle impoundment, and denied insurance claims.

6) Can I get an International Driving Permit in Vietnam?
No. Vietnam issues International Driving Permits only to holders of Vietnamese licences. Foreigners must obtain the International Driving Permit before travel.

7) How long is a 1968 International Driving Permit 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 International Driving Permit?
Only if your licence and International Driving Permit both include motorcycle entitlement.

9) Are digital “International Driving Permits” valid?
No. Only the physical treaty-standard International Driving Permit booklet is valid.

Key Takeaway

To drive legally in Vietnam, carry your original licence plus a 1968-format International Driving Permit. The 1949 International Driving Permit (common in the US and Canada) is not valid. Secure your dual-convention International Driving Permit with the International Drivers Association to ensure compliance and peace of mind.

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Print + Digital International Driving Permit

Print + Digital International Driving Permit

Maximum coverage – includes everything you might need abroad

  • Free access to all benefits of the digital International Driving Permit format included
  • Accepted in 189+ countries – travel without worries
  • Includes a free ID card with English license details
  • Globally recognized & meets international standards
  • Essential for non-English speaking countries
Digital International Driving Permit

Digital International Driving Permit

Instant Peace of Mind – Ready for Download in Minutes

  • Easily accessible digital format, accepted in many countries
  • Can be obtained online, fast and easy process
  • Accepted widely, but not in all countries
  • Doesn't include printed booklet and complementary plastic card

You will receive a printed and digital International Driving License booklet and card. The digital International Driving Permit is sent in 8 minutes and your physical International Driving Permit will be mailed. Click here for information on countries with International Driving Permit limitations.

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