Driving Licence Requirements in Vietnam

Which documents are recognised

The current road-traffic framework includes among valid documents an International Driving Permit together with the national licence for the corresponding category when issued under the 1968 UN Vienna Convention mechanism. Documents from countries with separate mutual-recognition agreements with Vietnam may also be covered under those agreements.

An IDP does not replace your national licence

When driving under the international-permit framework, carry the corresponding national licence as well. The IDP is a standardised international supplement, not a standalone substitute for the original national licence.

The category must match

Do not check only whether you possess an IDP. Check the vehicle category. If you plan to ride a motorcycle, your documents must authorise that type of vehicle. The same applies to cars. A common tourist scooter does not become a legal 'bicycle' because it is small.

What to carry

• The original national driving licence.
• The original valid IDP of the appropriate format if you rely on that recognition mechanism.
• Passport or another legally accepted identity document.
• Vehicle documents provided by the rental company.

Why insurance matters

Even if a rental company hands over a vehicle without thoroughly checking your licence, insurance coverage after a crash may depend on whether you were legally entitled to drive. Read policy exclusions before your trip: some policies exclude motorcycle accidents or require a specific driving category.